Burns & Wilcox names new managing directors and operations lead

Burns & Wilcox  has announced a series of leadership promotions across its U.S. operations, kicking off 2026 with changes spanning field leadership, operations, and professional liability.

Sam Carson has been named vice president and managing director, assuming responsibility for the firm’s Chicago and Milwaukee offices. Carson joined Burns & Wilcox more than 15 years ago and most recently served as vice president of operations. He will lead the offices alongside Erica Rangel, associate managing director in Chicago.

O’Neil Franso has transitioned from vice president of human resources to vice president of operations, bringing more than a decade of experience partnering with field leadership and the executive team.

In the professional liability practice, Rahmad Bauldrick and Laura McCormick were promoted from associate vice presidents to vice presidents and will continue expanding the firm’s professional liability products and national reach.

Burns & Wilcox also promoted several associates into associate managing director roles. Kris Guasch was named associate managing director in Fort Lauderdale, Jenna Zalud in Milwaukee, and Ashley Poe in Charlotte.

President Danny Kaufman said the promotions reflect the firm’s commitment to internal advancement and leadership development as it continues to scale its wholesale platform.