NU Online News Service, Aug. 7, 2:59 p.m.EDT

Robert Ingram, a former Safeco executive, was named senior vicepresident and chief information officer for The Hartford FinancialServices Group, Inc.'s property and casualty operations

The Hartford, Conn.-based company said Mr. Ingram has more than27 years of experience in technology and insurance, and mostrecently served as executive vice president and CIO at SafecoCorp.

During Mr. Ingram's career, the firm said, he has led a numberof strategic technology projects focused on cost rationalization,legacy system consolidation, and strategic partnerships. Hisbackground also includes serving as CIO at USAA and 12 years atAccenture.

Mr. Ingram will report to Brian O'Connell, The Hartford'senterprise CIO.

In his new role, Mr. Ingram will focus on driving the overallinformation technology strategy for The Hartford's p&coperations. In addition, he will work with Mr. O'Connell toaccelerate the company's enterprise information technology agenda,The Hartford said.

"Our IT operations play a critical role in the success of ourbusiness and how we deliver value to our customers and agents inthe marketplace," said Mr. O'Connell in a statement. "With Bob'sdeep experience in the p&c industry, as well as his ability tomanage large and sophisticated IT systems, we are excited to focuson making IT efficient, effective and easy for our businesses andfor our people."