Zurich North America announces key leadership changes

Zurich North America has announced key leadership changes in its direct market and crop businesses.

Jason Meador (pictured above right), currently head of the company’s crop insurance business, Rural Community Insurance Services (RCIS), has been appointed to head the direct markets business, which serves auto dealers and rental operations. Meador will take on the role following the retirement of current direct markets head Vince Santivasi (pictured above left).

Dalynn Hoch (pictured above center), currently head of mergers and acquisitions at Zurich Insurance Group, will succeed Meador as head of RCIS.

Direct markets transition

Meador will step into his new role on Feb. 1. He will continue to report to Kristof Terryn, CEO of Zurich North America, as a member of the company’s executive committee.

Meador joined Zurich more than 10 years ago and has held several leadership positions at the company, including head of strategic execution for North America, chief operating officer of the former alternative markets business, and head of captives. Prior to joining Zurich, Meador served as a principal with The Boston Consulting Group. He is a veteran of the US Navy.

Santivasi will remain with Zurich North America through April 5 to assist with the transition. His retirement comes after two decades with Zurich.

“In honoring Vince’s remarkable 20-year tenure with Zurich, we express gratitude for his exceptional leadership,” Terryn said. “With his extensive knowledge and expertise in the automotive industry, Vince has fostered invaluable customer and industry relationships that have been instrumental in our success within the franchised auto dealer space. As Vince moves on, Jason, who currently leads our crop business, will take over as the leader of the direct markets business. We extend our appreciation to Vince for his exemplary service and anticipate continued success under Jason’s leadership.”

RCIS transition

Hoch will assume her new role as head of RCIS effective Feb. 1. She will report to Terryn and become a member of Zurich North America’s executive committee.

Prior to her current role as head of mergers and acquisitions at Zurich Insurance Group, Hoch served as chief financial officer at Zurich North America. Prior to that, she served as a partner with KPMG.

“We’re fortunate to have strong leaders across North America and our group, which ensures seamless transitions,” Terryn said. “We’re thrilled to welcome Dalynn back to North America. With her background growing up in the family agriculture business and the wealth of finance and transformation experience she gained during her 14 years at Zurich, Dalynn is a strong fit to lead our crop business.”

Earlier this month, Zurich North America announced the appointment of Ann Chai as chief risk officer. In December, Zurich Insurance Group named Claudia Cordioli as chief financial officer.

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