Willis Expands Construction Practice

In mid-October, Willis Group holdings underwent a changing of the guard at the executive level. Now, Willis North America, a provider of insurance and risk management services to the construction industry and unit of insurance broker Willis Group Holdings, has hired several people across the United States to boost its construction practice.

Willis says the following appointments are effective immediately. John Nissley has been appointed practice leader for Willis' Construction Practice in Pittsburgh, where he will oversee the operations and administration of this team.

Ron Phillips and Bryant Steele have each been appointed VP, Willis Construction Practice, and will focus on business development in the Midwest region. Phillips and Steele are based in Chicago.

Paul J. Becker has been appointed senior claims consultant, Willis Strategic Outcomes Practice. He is based in Dallas. Brian Sena has been appointed account executive, Willis Construction Practice, and is responsible for account management on key construction accounts in Northern California. He is based in San Francisco.

Joel Cannon has been appointed surety manager for Willis' Construction practice in the Gulf region. He is based in Birmingham, Ala. Patrick Conroy has been appointed senior VP, risk control, where he will serve as part of Willis' Strategic Outcomes Practice in the South region. He is based in New Orleans.

Willis says the construction practice is comprised of more than 600 dedicated professionals in more than 40 offices, serving contractors, owners, construction professionals and design firms. The practice offers specialty teams for surety, risk management, alternative risks and project programs, including wrap-ups and professional liability. The entire construction portfolio is supported by Willis' dedicated safety and claims teams.