Allied World Assurance Company Holdings COO David Bell is to leave the company to pursue other interests in Montana.

Allied announced yesterday that Mr Bell would stay with the company until May 1 this year to help during a transition period.

John McElroy has assumed the title of COO of the company and will be responsible for overseeing Allied’s operations and administration, information technology, ceded reinsurance and new product development functions on a global basis.

Additionally, John Bender, president and COO of Allied World Reinsurance Company, has assumed responsibility for Allied World’s global reinsurance operations.

Mr McElroy most recently worked as president, professional lines for Allied World US.

Wesley Dupont, executive vice-president, general counsel and corporate secretary, has assumed the additional responsibilities of overseeing the claims and human resources functions globally, which had formerly reported to the COO.

Mr Dupont will continue to head the company’s Legal and Compliance Department and manage the company’s legal, compliance, corporate secretarial and governmental affairs.

Allied CEO Scott Carmilani said: “David has played an integral role in the development of the company over the past ten years. He has made valuable contributions to our success, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”