PEOPLE IN THE NEWS ZONE......

ZRG Partners Inc., a Boston-based global provider in Executive Search and Talent Management Solutions, announced the addition of Terry Clarke as managing director and head of the firm’s insurance practice. Clarke will be opening a new Chicago office for ZRG Partners and will head up the continued expansion of the firm’s insurance industry practice.

ZRG Partners and its subsidiaries are entering their 10th year of providing capital services to several key markets including Financial Services, Health Care and Life Sciences, Technology, Energy, and Education. Headquartered in Boston, ZRG Partners maintains strategic branch offices throughout The Americas and Asia.

• Farmers Insurance Group of Companies announced the appointment of Paul Patsis, a 35-year insurance veteran, to executive vice president of Farmers Group Inc., and president of market management. Patsis moves to his new position from president and chief executive officer of Farmers Life.
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• In May 1998, Patsis joined Farmers as president and CEO of Farmers Life. He was promoted to executive vice president, Farmers Group Inc., effective January 2007.

• Stephen Hunckler has joined the State Auto Insurance Companies as chief claims officer.

Hunckler was most recently executive vice president and chief claims officer at Balboa Insurance in Irvine, Calif., where he was responsible for overall claims execution and strategy supporting the company’s $3 billion book of business.

• Hylant Group announced the addition of Tony Evans to their Chicago office.
  
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• Evans joins the firm as senior vice president and client executive with more than 20 years of industry experience. He will be responsible for leading the office in business development efforts, as well as assisting the Illinois and Michigan region with large account and risk management opportunities.