Zurich North America has announced the appointment of Al Crook as the new Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), effective immediately.
With over three decades of HR leadership and business experience, Crook steps into this role after his recent tenure as Zurich’s Head of HR Business Partners. He has been a pivotal figure in the organization, particularly as the executive sponsor of the Zurich Apprenticeship Program since its inception in 2015. Under his guidance, the program has earned recognition from the US Department of Labor as an Apprenticeship Ambassador.
Having served as interim CHRO since May, Crook will now report directly to Zurich North America CEO Kristof Terryn.
Crook’s career prior to joining Zurich in 2014 includes leading HR delivery for HSBC North America. During his tenure there, he served as Head of Human Resources for Risk and Compliance, and previously for North American Insurance and Taxpayer Financial Services.
Beyond his professional achievements, Crook is actively involved in the community. He serves as Chairman of the Special Leisure Services Foundation Board, is a member of the Doulos Discovery School Foundation board, and contributes to DePaul University’s Finance Advisory Board.
Crook holds an MBA from DePaul University and a bachelor’s degree in management from Northern Illinois University. Additionally, he has served in the US Army Reserve and National Guard and holds a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) designation.