Tower Group brings in new head of investor relations

Bernard Kilkelly has joined Tower Group to lead the company’s IR department after more than 11 years at specialty insurance firm Delphi Financial.

‘My goals for the investor relations program at Tower are very traditional,’ explains Kilkelly. ‘I want to increase the number of sell-side analysts following the company from the current five. I also want to raise awareness of Tower among institutional investors and attract new institutional ownership. So I plan to implement a proactive targeting and outreach effort to accomplish these goals.’

Kilkelly will head up the NASDAQ-listed company’s IR program as it continues its merger with Canopius Holdings Bermuda, expected to be completed in the first quarter of this year. The finance and investments graduate brings more than 25 years’ experience in IR and corporate communications to the role. Kilkelly is also a director and former president of NIRI’s New York chapter.

‘Tower is committed to building shareholder value by continuing to achieve sustainable growth and profitability in our US insurance businesses while expanding our international capabilities,’ says Michael Lee, president and CEO, in a company press release. ‘Bernie’s extensive insurance industry background and investor relations experience will enable us to increase investor awareness and understanding of Tower’s strengths and accomplishments.’

Before leading the IR department at Delphi Financial, which was acquired by Japanese insurance firm Tokio Marine Group in 2012, Kilkelly served as vice president of investor relations and corporate communications at Enhance Financial Services Group, as well as holding senior positions at a number of New York-based IR and PR agencies.