QBE North America has announced the appointment of Daniel Franzetti as the company’s chief operating officer. In his new role, Franzetti will oversee all North American operations, systems, architecture, communications and branding. He succeeds Bob James in the role. He will also continue in his current role as QBE North America’s chief claims officer.

Franzetti has more than 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, the company said. Prior to joining QBE North America, he was chief claims officer for Zurich Australia Insurance Limited. He also served as senior vice president, leading Zurich’s Claims Shared Technical Services in North America. Franzetti holds a juris doctor degree from New York Law School, a master’s degree in business administration from Rutgers University-Newark, and a bachelor’s degree from Colgate University.

“Dan’s experience working across the organization, including a proven and disciplined record of claims management, will be instrumental as we transform our business model to deliver long-term value for our customers, agents and shareholders,” said Russell Johnston, CEO of QBE North America. “The opportunity to leverage our strengths – applied expertise, experience of excellence and global strength – has never been greater.”