The Bellingham Business Journal

Sterling Life Insurance Company has appointed Michael A. Muchnicki to be its new president and CEO, effective Aug. 17. Muchnicki takes over for Debbie Ahl, former president and CEO of Sterling, who retired on July 31.

Muchnicki was most recently the president and CEO of Touchstone Health Partnership Inc., in New York.

“With his extensive industry experience, track record for achieving profitable growth and strong leadership skills, I am confident that Michael will continue to establish Sterling as a leader in the seniors market,” said Edward Griese, president of Munich Health North America, Inc. in a statement.

The Munich Re Group acquired a 100 percent stake in Sterling Life Insurance Company in 2008 and has made significant investments to expand the company’s products, services and operations.

“The acquisition of Sterling is a central component of the Munich Health strategy. Sterling remains committed to the Medicare market and will continue to expand its product and service offerings,” Griese said.