QBE North America seeks growth in specialty market

Re/insurer QBE North America has promoted Steve Gransbury to head of its newly created specialty insurance unit, and Tara Krauss to the role of head of accident & health.

The specialty insurance unit consists of QBE's accident & health, aviation, and trade credit & surety practices. QBE said the new alignment will allow a sharper focus on customer needs to fully realize the "tremendous growth opportunity" each business holds for the company.

Previously, Gransbury had been leading accident & health, the largest of the three businesses.

In her new role, Krauss will report to Gransbury. She will develop and execute strategic plans that accelerate the profitable growth of the business. Krauss was most recently SVP of underwriting operations for accident & health.

"QBE Accident & Health has enjoyed tremendous success over the last several years," said Tom Fitzgerald, president of QBE Specialty & Commercial. "Much of that is due to Steve's hard work and his commitment to his team and his customers. Aligning our Specialty businesses within a single unit furthers our commitment to growth in the Specialty market, and Steve was the clear choice to lead the newly formed group."

Gransbury said: "Tara has a long track record of significant successes within QBE. That included implementing underwriting guidelines that allow our team to solve customers' challenges quickly and effectively, as well as mentoring teammates to help them reach their professional aspirations. Whatever she does, she's always been totally focused on achieving solid results, and we're all confident that she'll bring the same passion and resolve to her new role.

"I'm excited about the opportunity to lead QBE Accident & Health, and eager to continue executing on our strategy, while capitalizing on the many opportunities we see ahead of us."