Minneapolis, MN February 16, 2005 - John B. Collins Associates, Inc., one of the world’s leading reinsurance intermediaries, today announced that John Daum has joined the firm as a Vice President in their New York office. In his new role, Mr. Daum will be responsible for establishing new reinsurance brokerage client relationships as well as serving the needs of existing clients. He brings 25 years of insurance and reinsurance experience to the company. Mr. Daum began his career in London and later joined General Reinsurance Corporation, until 1989 when Mr. Daum joined E.W.

John is an outstanding addition to our New York staff,” said Simon Hudson, Senior Vice President and manager of the New York office. “He brings extensive knowledge and industry experience to the service of our property casualty and professional liability clients.” “We’re very pleased to welcome John on board,” said Pat Denzer, President and CEO of Collins. “He’ll be a valuable asset for our clients as well as our organization.” About Collins John B. Collins Associates is one of the largest reinsurance intermediaries in the world, and consistently ranks among the fastest growing.

Collins is a leader in the property & casualty, life/accident & health and agriculture/crop reinsurance segments. The company operates eight offices across the U.S., in addition to London and Bermuda. Collins maintains relationships with all major reinsurers. The company’s Web site is at www.jbcollins.com.