NU Online News Service, Feb. 23, 1:49 p.m. EST

The New York State Insurance Department announced that Martin A. Schwartzman has been named to the newly created post of deputy superintendent for strategic planning and market Initiatives.

Explaining the reason for the new position, the department statement said it is designed to "ensure that the insurance department is operating as efficiently and effectively as possible in meeting the needs of consumers and industry."

Mr. Schwartzman will review agency procedures and processes and propose changes to "ensure that the department is as efficient and effective as possible," according to the department.

The new appointee, at the superintendent's direction, will also undertake special projects, the department's announcement said.

It noted Mr. Schwartzman is currently "playing a leading role in the efforts to develop reform proposals for medical malpractice and title insurance."

Previously, Mr. Schwartzman served as assistant deputy superintendent and chief of the Insurance Department's Life Bureau, which is responsible for supervising more than 500 life insurance companies, retirement systems, reinsurers, annuity funds and other entities.

He previously served as director of policy initiatives, assistant chief examiner of the department's Property Bureau and supervising examiner with the Health Bureau.

The department said Mr. Schwartzman has also previously participated in various National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) committees and assisted the superintendent on the Life Insurance and Annuities Committee.