By Isha Marathe

Jan 21 - (The Insurer) - CRC Group has confirmed that it has hired former Brown & Riding casualty producer and shareholder Andrew Grim as senior vice president of casualty, adding to its national construction practice group.

Shortly after The Insurer reported Grim's appointment 17 January, Brown & Riding CEO Jeff Rodriguez told the publication that he regrets previous "gracious comments" regarding Grim's departure, and that the wholesaler intends to "aggressively enforce" his contractual obligations.

Grim resigned from Brown & Riding on 16 January after 11 years, in part because he wanted to focus on being a producing broker and step back from managerial duties, this publication reported. On 17 January, when Grim is understood to have started his new role with CRC Group, a Brown & Riding spokesperson said the wholesaler wished him well.

But Rodriguez said in a statement on Monday: "Since [17 January], information has come to my attention that has shined a new light on the circumstances of [Grim's] departure. I now regret my comments and withdraw them.

"We will not release [Grim] from any of the ongoing obligations he owes to Brown & Riding, and expect him to fully abide by all of them."

CRC Group declined to comment regarding Rodriguez's comments.

Grim has been in the industry for more than 12 years. Before his role at Brown & Riding, he was a casualty broker at Partners Specialty Group and a producer at Arthur J Gallagher.

“[Grim] brings a wealth of niche expertise, an unwavering commitment to client relationships, and a collaborative leadership style that perfectly aligns with our team’s values. Together, we’re poised to deliver even greater value and differentiated results to our clients and partners," said Evan Aldrich, national construction practice group leader.

Grim's addition is a part of CRC’s strategic effort to expand its presence in the construction market. In his new role, he will be based in Dallas, Texas.