HARTFORD, Conn., Jul 16, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: HIG) announced today that the company has appointed Juan Andrade, 43, president and chief operating officer of its Property and Casualty Operations, effective immediately. Andrade will continue to report directly to the company's chairman and chief executive officer, Ramani Ayer, and will serve as a member of the Office of the Chairman.
"Over the last several years, Juan has played a critical role in driving the property and casualty business forward and ensuring its continued strong performance," said Ayer. "He has broad functional expertise, having worked in nearly every part of the P&C business, from underwriting and pricing to claims, sales and marketing. As a triathlete and a marathon runner, he has an innate competitive nature and an unmatched passion to win. He will make a terrific leader for this organization."
An industry veteran, Andrade joined The Hartford in 2006, assuming leadership of the P&C claims organization. In that role, he transformed claims into a more focused and disciplined group, emphasizing enhanced customer service, greater employee engagement and increased efficiency. He was soon appointed to executive vice president for sales and distribution in 2008, where he expanded and enhanced the company's relationships with its agents. In February 2009, he assumed the role of Interim P&C Co-leader of The Hartford's Property and Casualty Operations.
"The Hartford has recently taken a number of critical steps to set the company on a strategic course to build value for our partners, shareholders, employees and distributors," added Ayer. Appointing the new head of the property and casualty organization is another important step in our path forward, and we were pleased to have a number of high-caliber internal candidates for the role."
"With our overall company strategy in place and a strong capital position, we are in an excellent position to continue to drive the property and casualty business as we build momentum toward our 200th anniversary," said Andrade. "The P&C business has consistently delivered outstanding performance due to the dedication of our people; the commitment of our agents, brokers and principal partners; and our continued investments in product, distribution, service and technology. I look forward to this opportunity to serve all of our stakeholders to drive results for the business."
Prior to joining The Hartford, Andrade held several leadership positions with The Progressive Corporation, serving as general manager of the company's Gulf Coast Region and, prior to that, the company's Southern California, Colorado and Wyoming business units. He also held management positions with American International Group (AIG), working with worldwide consumer lines operations and holding responsibility for personal lines operations and multi-line business development in the Caribbean. Andrade began his career as a presidential management intern and went on to work on national security and foreign policy issues within the executive branch and the Executive Office of The President.
Andrade earned a bachelor's degree in Journalism and Political Science from the University of Florida. He also earned a master's degree in International Economics and Latin American Studies from the School of Advanced International Studies at Johns Hopkins University.
About The Hartford
Celebrating nearly 200 years, The Hartford (NYSE: HIG) is an insurance-based financial services company that serves households, businesses and employees by helping to protect their assets and income from risks, and by managing wealth and retirement needs. A Fortune 500 company, The Hartford is recognized widely for its service expertise and as one of the world's most ethical companies. More information on the company and its financial performance is available at www.thehartford.com.