Hastings Mutual Insurance, a regional property/casualty insurance carrier in the Midwest has welcomed new president, CEO, and chairman, Joseph Babiak Jr.

According to the underwriter, Babiak joined Hastings Mutual in 2001 as the chief financial officer and prior to joining Hastings Mutual, Babiak served as a senior manager at Arthur Andersen.

Babiak has more than 30 years of insurance expertise and before accepting the current role, he had served as the senior vice president of insurance operations, the firm said.

"This seamless transition is possible due to the talent and dedication of Hastings Mutual's employees and their commitment to financial stability for our policyholders and agent partners," Babiak added.

"I look forward to leading Hastings Mutual as we continue to build upon our innovative products, customer service, technology, and agency relationships to provide our customers the best possible solutions to their insurance needs in the years ahead."

Hastings Mutual human resources vice president Dana Walters said, "His leadership, experience, and knowledge of the insurance industry make him an ideal candidate to fill this position and lead Hastings Mutual into a bright future."

Hastings Mutual trades in the six Midwestern states of Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio, and Wisconsin, US and offers products related to commercial, farm, and personal lines insurance.