Bermuda-based Argo Group International Holdings Ltd. has appointed Michael Fleischer as the chief underwriting officer of its excess and surplus (E&S) lines segment.

Mr. Fleischer will work closely with E&S segment businesses Colony, Argo Pro and Argo Specialty to help maximise profitability while providing strategic underwriting guidance.

"I'm pleased Mike has chosen to join Argo Group," said E&S president Lou Levinson. "With more than 30 years in the insurance industry, Mike brings both extensive underwriting experience as well as an in depth knowledge of the excess and surplus lines business."

Mr. Fleischer, who will report to Mr. Levinson, will be based in Argo Group's Atlanta office. He joins Argo Group following nine years with Ace. Most recently, he worked with Ace Westchester Specialty Group's casualty division as chief underwriting officer and prior to that, as vice-president of Ace Bermuda's liability underwriting division.

Prior to joining Ace, Mr. Fleischer worked for Chubb Group of Insurance Companies for 15 years in various underwriting management positions.