“Working with St. John’s is critical,” Shachnow continued. “They help ensure that the course content developed is objective and neutral, accurate, relevant, timely, and meets the academic standards worthy of a professional designation.”

The affiliation with St. John’s also reflects strong, long-term relationships Zurich has with the New York university. Zurich North America CEO Kristof Terryn is on the Board of Overseers for the Maurice R. Greenberg School of Risk Management, Insurance and Actuarial Science; while several Zurich leaders are SJU graduates, including John Mizzi, Head of Industry Practices, U.S. Middle Market; Brian Winters, Head of Large Casualty; and Gerald Chiddick, Regional Executive for the Midwest Region.

Mizzi, Shachnow and Dane Brockett (Head of Zurich North America’s School of Underwriting) are all on a joint advisory board along with Mark J. Browne, Chair of the Faculty of St. John’s School of Risk Management. Instructors for the courses are some of the top thought-leadership specialists and subject matter experts from Zurich and St. John’s.

The MMRM course is groundbreaking, but Zurich’s work in addressing the challenges facing the middle market doesn’t end there. This fast-moving sector demands organizations evolve to keep up with developments and share an expanding knowledge base. And Zurich is ready to lead the way.

“Getting awarded the designation is only the first step,” Shachnow said. “We will provide additional support going forward, including CE-accredited programs focused on issues and strategies relevant for middle market clients. We’ll also be offering periodic MMRM conferences, small group coaching on working with middle market companies, networking opportunities and more.”