SCHAUMBURG, Ill. — Zurich, a commercial property and casualty insurance provider, announced that effective immediately Bob Tschippert will lead Zurich Financial Services Group’s newly created Automotive Center of Excellence in North America.

“Bob’s dedication to helping automotive businesses successfully manage their ever-changing industry made him an ideal choice to lead the automotive sector in North America,” said Joerg Waelder, global head of Zurich’s automotive industry practice. “Bob will look for ways to quickly respond to the needs of Zurich’s automotive customers by using our global resources to identify and help develop risk insights and new products.”

Tschippert has more than 26 years of insurance industry experience. He also has substantial experience in insurance analytics, having most recently served as senior business analytics officer for Zurich North America Commercial’s direct markets unit.

Since joining Zurich in 1984, Tschippert has held a variety of positions. His efforts have focused on all aspects of automotive businesses, including dealers, dealer groups, aftermarket businesses, i.e. independent garages, collision and tire repair businesses, and parts operations, as well as auto recyclers.

“We are excited for Bob to facilitate the collaboration between our customers who are leaders in all areas of the automotive industry, the automotive educational community, and Zurich’s dedicated team of insurance specialists,” said Craig Fundum, president of programs and direct markets for Zurich North America Commercial. “I look forward to helping Bob launch the North American Automotive Center and watching his passion for delivering Zurich HelpPoint, our promise to be there when it matters, to our customers.”

In March 2008, Zurich launched its Global Industry Specialization Program to better leverage its existing industry knowledge base, experience in general insurance and customer understanding in the automotive, real estate and construction industries.

For more information about Zurich’s Automotive Center of Excellence in North America, contact Tschippert directly at (913) 664-4801 or at bob.tschippert@zurichna.com.