Stewart Information Services announced today that Steve Lessack will assume leadership of Stewart’s U.S. Direct Operations business effective immediately.

An accomplished 30-year industry veteran, Lessack has a tremendous track record expanding the Stewart brand and working across all business lines to increase market share and maximize profitability. During his 25 years with Stewart, Steve has spent the majority of his career focusing on Direct Operations, both in the U.S. and internationally, where in Canada he leads the largest Direct Operations title company.

Lessack will continue to serve as group president of international operations and commercial services, in addition to his new responsibilities.

“We are very fortunate to have someone of Steve’s caliber and experience lead our U.S. Direct Operations team,” said Fred Eppinger, Chief Executive Officer, Stewart Information Services Corporation. “Having worked with Steve during my tenure on Stewart’s Board of Directors and now as CEO, I know that Steve is the right leader at this pivotal moment in Stewart’s history. He has a deep understanding of the title industry and a proven track record of success that will allow us to implement our growth strategy and take advantage of market opportunities.”

“My career with Stewart began in our U.S. Direct Operations business and I couldn’t be more honored to be chosen to lead the team,” Lessack said. “We have exceptionally talented professionals and leaders and I’m committed to investing in the business and our people to accelerate our pace of growth. Our opportunities are vast and we have the vision and the people to bring it all together.”

Before joining Stewart in 1995, Lessack worked for a direct title operation in California, and then owned and operated an independent agency in New York. At Stewart, he has served as president of Stewart Title Guaranty Company’s Canada Division, chief executive officer of Stewart Title Ltd., the Stewart underwriter for the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia, and group president of Stewart’s commercial services group within the U.S.

About Stewart

Stewart Information Services Corporation (NYSE-STC) is a global real estate services company, offering products and services through our direct operations, network of Stewart Trusted Providers™ and family of companies. From residential and commercial title insurance and closing and settlement services to specialized offerings for the mortgage industry, we offer the comprehensive service, deep expertise and solutions our customers need for any real estate transaction. At Stewart, we believe in building strong relationships – and these partnerships are the cornerstone of every closing, every transaction and every deal. Stewart. Real partners. Real possibilities.™ More information is available at stewart.com, subscribe to the Stewart blog at blog.stewart.com, or follow Stewart on Twitter® @stewarttitleco. Trademarks are the property of their respective owners.