Hastings Mutual Insurance Company Welcomes New President and CEO Joseph J. Babiak Jr.

HASTINGS, MI--(Marketwire - Jul 27, 2012) - Hastings Mutual Insurance Company, an award winning, regional Property/Casualty insurance carrier in the Midwest today welcomes new President, CEO, and Chairman Joseph J. Babiak Jr. Babiak joined Hastings Mutual in 2001 as the Chief Financial Officer. During the past three years, Babiak has served as the Senior Vice President of Insurance Operations in preparation for this planned succession. He has more than 30 years of industry experience.

"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," said Babiak. "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."

Babiak is originally from Mosinee, Wisconsin and worked as a Senior Manager at Arthur Andersen LLC prior to joining Hastings Mutual. Babiak received his Accounting Degree from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point and has earned the CPA designation.

"Joe was selected as part of an organized, long-term transition plan to take on the role of president and CEO at Hastings Mutual," said Dana Walters, vice president of Human Resources at Hastings Mutual. "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."

In 2011, Hastings Mutual ended the year with a combined ratio of 99.8%. Hastings Mutual Insurance Company recently received a reaffirmed A.M. Best A+ Superior rating with a stable outlook and was named as one of West Michigan's 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For.

About Hastings Mutual Insurance Company
Hastings Mutual Insurance Company is an award-winning, A. M. Best: A+ rated, regional Property Casualty insurance company. Hastings Mutual operates in the six Midwestern states of Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio, and Wisconsin. The company, based in Hastings, Michigan, was founded in 1885. Hastings Mutual writes commercial, farm, and personal lines business through a network of independent insurance agents. For more information about Hastings Mutual visit the company website at www.hastingsmutual.com or find them on Facebook and Twitter.