Willis has appointed Dorien Smithson as executive vice president, Willis Americas.

Smithson will lead the North American Claim and Risk Control Practice. She joins the company from ESIS, a subsidiary of Ace USA, where she was senior vice president, national sales and marketing, and construction practice executive.

Commenting on the appointment Don Bailey, chief executive officer of Willis North America, said: “There is nothing more important to Willis than mitigating potential claims against our clients and getting claims paid on a timely and professional basis.

"Dorien brings 29 years of experience leading both domestic and international underwriting and service businesses for major insurance companies. Her role leading claims, risk control and risk management technology in this practice will harness Willis’ extensive technical and consulting resources to deliver innovative solutions for our clients.”