The Hanover Insurance Group said Chief Executive John “Jack” Roche will retire Dec. 31, 2026, ending a run that began when he took the top job in 2017 and a company tenure that started in 2006.
Richard “Dick” Lavey, currently chief operating officer and president of Hanover Agency Markets, was named CEO-elect and will work with Roche through the transition. Lavey has been with the company since 2004, giving him a 22-year tenure, and has held roles including chief marketing officer, chief growth innovation officer, president of personal lines and president of the Northeast region.
The succession comes after a period in which Roche’s leadership was credited with record operating earnings, stronger stock-price performance and a firmer position in the independent agency channel. The company said Lavey’s current role includes directing a transformation of the operating model and leading the growth and performance of core commercial and personal lines, which together account for 75% of the company’s $7 billion in consolidated gross premiums written.
Roche, 62, and Lavey, 59, have worked together for more than two decades. Roche said the company is in a strong financial position and has the talent needed to move ahead, while Lavey said he aims to accelerate growth and drive performance.
The Hanover also flagged two upcoming investor events: an earnings call on July 29, 2026, and an investor day on Sept. 17, 2026. As a result of these announcements, the company's shares have moved -0.13% on the market, and are now trading at a price of $206.63. For the full picture, make sure to review HANOVER INSURANCE GROUP, INC.'s 8-K report.
