* Amwest Insurance Group in Woodland Hills...

* Amwest Insurance Group in Woodland Hills said John E. Savage, 38, was appointed president of its Amwest Surety Insurance Co. subsidiary. Savage replaced Gary R. Peterson, 57, who retired in November.

Savage will continue in his position as president of the parent company, a title he has held for the past year. Savage is the son of the chairman and chief executive of Amwest Insurance Group, Richard H. Savage, 71, whose family owns about 40% of the company’s stock.

In addition, Arthur F. Melton, 36, was named senior vice president of Amwest Insurance Group and will be responsible for the underwriting department, the court division and human resources.