National insurance program manager Distinguished Programs has announced the appointment of Kurt Meister (pictured above) as chief sales officer.

In his new role, he will lead strategic partnerships with national brokerages, establish a sales training program, and develop a business development playbook, Distinguished said. He will also support new business production for Distinguished’s niches and help onboard new program teams.

Meister has 35 years of industry experience. He joined Distinguished in 2006 as senior vice president of sales and distribution. Prior to that, he held executive positions at National Specialty Underwriters and Aon Affinity Insurance Programs.

“I am thrilled to be serving my team in this new role,” Meister said. “I look forward to working with our senior leadership and program leaders to create a new level of awareness of our capabilities with the senior teams at brokerages.”

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“We are excited to see Kurt take on this new challenge and drive growth and success with our broker partners,” said Steve Sitterly, chief operating officer at Distinguished Programs. “With his extensive experience and deep understanding of our products, he is well-positioned to help us achieve our goals and provide exceptional service.”

Meister’s promotion is the latest appointment at Distinguished Programs. Last month, the company tapped Michelle Stegmann as vice president of claims for its fine art and collectibles program.

The company also recently announced a partnership with SiriusPoint to expand into environmental, construction pollution and professional insurance.

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