Virginia Beach-based insurance company Choice Financial Group has named Michael J. Andersen its president and chief operating officer, the company announced Tuesday.

Andersen, who has started at his new post, has more than 37 years of experience in the insurance industry, according to a news release. He most recently served as president of AssuredPartners’ New Jersey-based legal insurance practice and wholesale operations. He also spent two decades with William Gallagher Associates, which was acquired by Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in 2015.

At Choice Financial Group, Andersen will focus on growth and integrating new partner agencies.

“Michael is a seasoned and trusted leader, and I am confident in his capacity to help advance the company’s initiatives and realize our long-term goals,” Choice CEO Bob Hilb said in a statement. “He fits very well with our team and culture, and given his impressive track record of achievement, we believe he is the right person to lead our operations.”

Choice Financial Group has 18 offices in eight states.

“The opportunity to join Choice is an honor, and I am very excited to be on the team,” Andersen said. “Given the talented and dedicated team members, the focus to provide top-tier service to our clients and our strong growth trajectory, I am extremely confident in our future success ahead.”

Andersen received a bachelor’s degree in finance from Fairfield University in Connecticut, according to his LinkedIn account.