When one door closes, another one opens – that’s certainly the case at Hiscox USA as one industry veteran steps into retirement, allowing another to flourish.

Nicole Goodwin, Hiscox’s chief underwriting officer in the US is to step away from the firm, opening up her role – one that has duly been filled by Eric Micheals. Micheals, a Hiscox partner based in New York, will now lead the firm’s underwriting strategy and execution across its portfolio of specialty risk solutions in the US – including in areas such as kidnap & ransom, commercial property, terrorism, general liability and cyber.

“During his tenure at Hiscox, Eric has demonstrated leadership, courage and a relentless focus on high-quality underwriting and excellence in execution,” said Ben Walter, CEO for Hiscox in the US. “Eric’s experience and commitment to driving innovation at Hiscox will be instrumental in expanding one of our fastest growing business units.”

In total, Micheals has been part of Hiscox for eight years and was the lead underwriter in establishing its direct and partnerships division. In addition, he served as senior vice president for the Hiscox Underwriting Center, leading a 30-person team and simultaneously handling the renewal business. His past positions include being a vice president at AIG, and he also graduated cum laude from the State University of New York at Binghamton with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music.