Expanded leadership team positions the organization for continued growth and innovation
SAN DIEGO – Sept. 11, 2025 – Bridge Specialty Group has announced several key leadership appointments, reflecting the company’s commitment to operational excellence, deep industry specialization, and a bold vision for growth. These changes follow the announcement of a sharpened organizational structure across Arrowhead Intermediaries and the integration of new wholesale businesses from the merging of One80 Intermediaries.
“I am thrilled to welcome these talented leaders into their new roles and look forward to the future they will help shape for Bridge Specialty Group,” said Anurag Batta, president of Bridge Specialty Group. “Their experience, vision and commitment to excellence will help further establish our global wholesale division as a powerhouse in the industry.”
Executive Leadership Appointments
- Joe Failla has been named Chief Operating Officer. With 21 years of dedicated service, Failla will oversee operational initiatives, including the integration of the One80 Intermediaries’ wholesale businesses. He will also continue to lead Bridge’s personal lines and product development.
- Steve Emmons steps into the role of Chief Information Officer, succeeding Tony Cacchione, who moves to an expanded position with Arrowhead Intermediaries. Emmons brings five years of expertise from Brown & Brown and Bridge Specialty Group and will lead technological initiatives for the organization.
- Ted Stuckey is appointed President of LocalEdge and Head of Digital Strategy for Bridge Specialty Group. Stuckey, who joined with the acquisition of LocalEdge (formerly NBS) in March 2025, will now oversee digital strategy in addition to his current leadership responsibilities.
- Martin Burlingame joins as the Division President for One80 Binding. With extensive experience in the E&S sector, Burlingame will also focus on product development for Bridge Specialty Group.
- Kathy Sofarelli is named National Personal Lines Director. After 18 years as leader of National Risk Solutions, Sofarelli will now oversee the national personal lines platform strategy and market expansion.
- Jon Longsdorf joins as Vice President – Digital Products. With a strong background in end-to-end sales solutions from LocalEdge (formerly NBS), Jon will focus on enhancing customer experience and business outcomes through digital innovation.
These new appointments join the seasoned Bridge Specialty Group leadership team, including Kathy Colangelo, Tim Coles, Mary MacDonnell, Water Grote, Susan Froman and Liz White.
About Bridge Specialty Group
Bridge Specialty Group is a leading global insurance wholesaler with the scale and specialization needed to meet today’s complex risk challenges head-on. Our teams provide deep industry knowledge, placement precision across lines, and access to admitted, excess and surplus lines carriers, and Lloyd’s markets.
For more information, please visit www.BridgeSpecialtyGroup.com
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