Chubb, the world’s largest publicly traded property and casualty insurer, has appointed Leigh Anne Sherman (pictured) as specialty officer for the North America middle market effective immediately.

Sherman steps into her new role after 25 years with Chubb, most recently serving as division president of the company’s subsidiary ESIS.

As specialty officer, Sherman will be responsible for spearheading Chubb’s distribution efforts, providing partners with “seamless access” to product offerings for clients in the commercial middle market, a statement from the company said.

Sherman succeeds Joseph Clabby, who is set to retire in July. She will be reporting to Ben Rockwell, vice president, Chubb Group, and division president, North America middle market.

“We look forward to having Leigh Anne join commercial insurance,” said Rockwell. “She has a proven track record in leading innovative organizations and driving results and will be able to leverage decades of insurance industry knowledge and experience in this new role.”

“Over the years, Joe has served the organization in a variety of leadership roles and has been instrumental in helping to grow our business,” Rockwell added. “On behalf of Chubb's entire management team, we thank him for his many contributions and wish him all the very best during retirement.”