Minneapolis, January 16, 2007 -- Scott Fest has joined Collins as senior vice president, bringing to the reinsurance intermediary a 15-year track record in providing services to insurers nationwide in property, casualty, workers' compensation and other lines of reinsurance.

Collins President and Chief Executive Officer Pat Denzer said Fest will have special responsibilities for clients in the southeastern United States. "This is an important region for our company," Denzer said. "Insurers in the Gulf Coast and other hurricane-exposed areas have increasing, and often complex, reinsurance needs.

"Scott brings knowledge and experience that will assist insurers in planning for potential catastrophes while succeeding as stable insurance markets for their customers," he said.

Mr. Fest previously worked for the Benfield Group. A Minnesota native, he has worked in the Midwest and on the West Coast. He holds a bachelor's degree from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota, and the Associate in Reinsurance (ARe) professional designation.