First American Financial has named Paul Hurst its chief innovation officer, a new role that reports directly to CEO Ken DeGiorgio.

Hurst will identify opportunities to leverage the company’s capital position, nationwide distribution channels, data assets and priority technologies to help accelerate First American Financial’s innovation investments, DeGiorgio said in a press release. He will also identify opportunities for further innovation through strategic venture investments and partnerships, as well as mergers and acquisitions. Additionally, Hurst will continue to serve as the managing director of First American’s venture investing arm.

“Paul’s insightful approach to the rapidly evolving real estate and mortgage finance landscape and his expertise in the process of innovation make him ideally suited for this new role, which will strengthen our position as the leader in the digital transformation of the title and settlement industry,” DeGiorgio said. 

Hurst helped with the development and 2018 launch of digital title and settlement company Endpoint, funded by First American and now operating in 20 markets in seven states. 

Before joining First American, Hurst was a partner at a leading international consulting firm and also advised Fortune 100 companies. He holds a doctoral degree from the University of Cambridge, as well as a master’s and undergraduate degree in economics and pharmacology.