Chicago-based CNA Financial Corp., which touts itself as the nation’s seventh-largest commercial insurance writer, has appointed John Scroope as vice president of its Boston branch, effective May 2.

In this role, Scroope will be responsible for synchronizing branch operations with CNA’s strategic goals for long-term success, including increasing local authority at the point of sale and improving service to agents and brokers in this territory, according to a statement.

Scroope joins CNA with 17 years of insurance experience in property and casualty insurance marketing, underwriting and field management, the company said. He most recently served as national distribution manager for OneBeacon Insurance Co.