EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants opened its integrated risk solutions practice based in Houston.

In connection with the opening, EPIC hired Maurice Edwards as managing principal and Walter Palmer as practice leader.

Edwards was most recently senior vice president of enterprise risk for Mattress Firm, while Palmer was the founder and president of PCG Solutions. Also joining EPIC are Kevin Ach as vice president of risk assurance, John Schroeder as vice president of asset protection and Katie Tyrone as vice president of risk financing.

EPIC southwest region president Jim Watt will serve as the team's executive sponsor.