Everest Insurance names key executives to drive global strategy

Everest Insurance, the specialty insurance division of Bermuda-based Everest Re Group, has bolstered its underwriting leadership with three new executive appointments.

Mike Harnett has been named chief underwriting officer for Everest Insurance in North America, Erik Nikodem has been appointed global head of property and Neil Lightbown is joining as chief underwriting officer of Everest Global Markets, effective October 1.

Harnett joined Everest in 2017 as deputy chief underwriting officer after 13 years with ACE. He has been a key leader in the company, building out Everest’s governance framework. In his new role, he will drive Everest Insurance's underwriting excellence across North America. He will report to Everest Insurance COO Mike Mulray, and will remain based in the company’s Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, office.

Nikodem joined Everest in May 2016 to lead the newly formed US property division. Over the past four years, he has overseen the growth, strategy and profitability of the division’s retail property, excess and surplus property, and inland marine space. Prior to joining Everest, Nikodem worked at AIG, where he most recently held the role of president and global property executive of their Americas Region. He will continue to report to Everest Insurance president & CEO, Mike Karmilowicz, and will remain based in the company’s Boston office.

Lastly, Lightbown joins Everest after five years with Allied World Assurance, where he was most recently global markets chief underwriting officer. Lightbown has nearly four decades of experience, having worked in both the Lloyd's and company markets. He will report to Everest Insurance COO Mulray and to Vincent Vandendael, CEO of Everest Global Markets. He will be based in the company’s London office.

Karmilowicz said: “Today’s announcement further demonstrates the depth of talent within our organisation and the strength of the Everest culture which continues to attract industry-leading talent to our firm. Our Global Markets operation is a critical component of our diversified portfolio.

"I am excited to have Neil and Erik on board to lead aspects of our evolving and expanding global strategy. At the same time, Mike will guide the underwriting excellence in our established North America region that complements our continued organisational build-out across the world.”