XL Insurance has appointed Richard Leone to the helm of its in-house functions, with the new title of Executive Vice President, Director of internal operations.

Formerly a civil engineer, Mr. Leone entered the insurance industry as the underwriting manager for New York's Allendale Insurance office.

Mr. Leone joined XL in 1997 as Senior Vice President and Manager of its property underwriting department, and was subsequently promoted to Senior Vice President of XL's customer underwriting services in the following year.

XL Insurance is a key subsidiary of XL Capital Limited, a Bermuda-based globe-spanning supplier of insurance, reinsurance and financial products with consolidated assets just over the $14 billion mark as of this September 30.

Chief Executive Officer of XL Insurance Clive Tobin said Mr. Leone's directorship was a new position for the company which would boost its customer service and efficiency.

"Mr. Leone will oversee development of the structure and processes necessary to manage the organisation's current activities, and its projected growth,'' Mr. Tobin said.

"His extensive experience from 20 years in the industry will make his professional contribution a key determining factor behind the continued success of the company.'' Mr. Leone will direct the company's activities in accordance with the policies and objectives set up by XLI's Chief Executive Officer and the company's Board of Directors.

His turf will include looking after human resources, customer underwriting and managing all documents, records and information within the company.

BUSINESS BUC