Munich Re Group announced today the appointment of Mary Forrest to the position of president and CEO of the company’s Canadian & Caribbean life and health reinsurance operations.

Forrest will take on the role at the start of the new year. She has also been named chairwoman of Munich Re’s U.S. life company, Munich American Reassurance Company, and head of North America (Life), a newly created position.

Forrest has been with the company for more than 16 years in various executive roles.

“She has demonstrated the precise qualities needed to ensure that the Canadian and U.S. operations work together optimally while retaining their unique identities,” said Dr. Wolfgang Strassl, member of the board of management, Munich Re, in a release.

Forrest replaces Jim Brierley, who is retiring after a 32-year career with the company.