Industrial Alliance Insurance and Financial Services has appointed Michel Laurin as president and chief operating officer of Industrial Alliance Auto and Home Insurance.

Laurin is an actuary by training, and he comes to Industrial Alliance from a job as vice president Actuarial and Technical Insurance Services, at general insurance firm Meloche-Monnex. Laurin also previously worked at Industrial Alliance from 1995 to 1998. As president and COO, Laurin’s principal mandate will be to pursue the development of Industrial Alliance Auto and Home Insurance in order to position it among Quebec’s direct distribution leaders.

Laurin will replace John Harbour, who is retiring after an extensive career in financial services. Over the last four years, Harbour oversaw Industrial Alliance’s general insurance operations.

“We are pleased to welcome such an accomplished administrator to the Industrial Alliance Group,” stated Yvon Charest, president and CEO of Industrial Alliance. “Known for his dynamic, hands on approach, Mr. Laurin will be able to put his vast knowledge to work in pursuing the growth objectives set forward by Industrial Alliance Auto and Home Insurance by promoting an even greater co-operation with Career network representatives, thereby perpetuating a strategic partnership that has always served the Group’s interests well.”