Starwind Specialty taps Conrad as CUO

CRC Group’s program management unit Starwind Specialty Insurance Services has appointed Kirk Conrad (pictured) as its first-ever chief underwriting officer.

As CUO, Conrad will be tasked with developing underwriting strategies, overseeing risk management, and keeping the team abreast of emerging trends to maintain Starwind’s competitive edge.

The key hire’s expertise in data and analytics is expected to be a key driver in refining the company’s approach to achieving profitable underwriting results amid a strategic expansion.

Conrad, a seasoned insurance professional with over 20 years of experience, has worked across various segments of the industry, including both commercial and personal lines, as well as risk management and analytics.

Before joining Starwind Specialty, Conrad held the position of global head of analytics at BMS, where he managed areas such as actuarial, catastrophe modeling, and regulatory advisory. He also served as a general securities and investment banking principal for the firm’s broker-dealer.

Prior to that, Conrad worked as a property & casualty actuarial consultant, managed a significant portfolio at an alternative investment firm, and served at an insurance carrier.

Starwind Specialty chief executive Bill Goldstein commended Conrad’s appointment, stating: “Kirk’s expertise in data analytics and underwriting will be invaluable as we continue to expand our services.

“His leadership will significantly enhance our ability to deliver exceptional underwriting results to our reinsurer and carrier partners while helping to develop innovative solutions for our trading partners.”

Meanwhile, Conrad expressed enthusiasm about his new role, commenting: “Starwind prioritizes underwriting and data. I’m thrilled to join the team and enhance our use of data and analytics to build on the impressive growth and success of the business moving forward.”

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