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Bailey to head Willis North America

Posted On: Sep. 21, 2006 12:00 AM CST

NEW YORK--Don Bailey has been named chief executive officer of Willis North America, succeeding Mario P. Vitale, who is leaving the brokerage to become CEO of Zurich's Global Corporate North American operations, Willis said late Thursday.

Mr. Bailey, who joined Willis from Allianz Insurance Co. in March 2003, most recently served as chief operating officer of Willis North America.

In describing Mr. Bailey, Joe Plumeri, Willis' chairman and CEO, said he "has a great understanding of clients' complex needs and the ability to design appropriately tailored solutions; he has strong business sense and most importantly, he has the respect of his colleagues."

Mr. Vitale, who had been with Willis for six years, will report to Geoff Riddell, CEO of Zurich Global Corporate, and will work closely with Axel P. Lehmann, CEO of Zurich North America Commercial. Pete Connors, president of Zurich Global Energy and John Kelm, president of Global Corporate Customer, North America, will report to Mr. Vitale, who will be based in New York City.

"Mario's proven leadership will further strengthen our Global Corporate management team as we implement our key strategies and initiatives," Mr. Riddell said.