Paul Taylor is the new president and CEO of Western Financial Group, the High River, Alta.-based company announced on Monday.

In new role as, Taylor will oversee Western’s Network of insurance brokerages, and will lead all of Western’s business units including Western Financial Group Insurance Solutions, Western Financial Insurance Co. (Petsecure) and Western Life Assurance Co.

Taylor brings with him a diverse background in both the private and public sectors. Most recently he held the position of president of TransAlta’s business operations in the U.S. and as is a corporate director on the TransAlta Renewables board of directors. His extensive experience includes serving as president & CEO of the Insurance Corp. of British Columbia (ICBC) and he subsequently served as the chairman and director of ICBC. His public sector experience includes serving as chief of staff to the Premier of B.C. and as B.C.’s Deputy Minister of Finance and Secretary to Treasury Board.

“We are excited to have Mr. Taylor join the Western team. He is a proven leader, and is a great fit with Western’s values of truthfulness, fairness, value and loyalty. He is the right choice to help Western continue to be a leader in the Canadian insurance industry,” said Scott Tannas, vice chairman and founder of Western Financial Group, in a statement.

Tannas, who was interim president & CEO, will be working with Taylor to oversee a smooth transition period.

After this time, Tannas will resume his previous role as vice chairman and founder focusing on the areas of governance, community and employee relations. Tannas also continues to serve as a Canadian Senator.