By Michael Loney

April 4 - (The Insurer) - The Hanover has promoted Richard Lavey to the newly created role of chief operating officer.

Worcester, Massachusetts-based The Hanover said Lavey in his new role will further develop business strategy and drive greater integration between the business and technology organisations.

Lavey will maintain his current responsibilities leading personal lines and core commercial, which includes the company's small and middle market businesses.

He will also continue to lead the company's sales and distribution, corporate underwriting, marketing and risk solutions functions.

Lavey has more than 35 years of experience in the insurance and technology industries.

Before joining The Hanover in 2004, Lavey was vice president of strategic initiatives for The Hartford's property and casualty organisation and vice president of strategic marketing for The Hartford's select customer division.

"We are very pleased to have Dick assume this key role in our organisation and to have his leadership over our company's strategic operations," said John Roche, president and chief executive officer at The Hanover.