Henderson Brothers Charts Future with New President, Broader Ownership

PITTSBURGH, PA – January 16, 2026 – In a strategic move designed to secure its future while honoring its past, Henderson Brothers, Inc., a 133-year-old fixture in Pittsburgh's business landscape, has announced a significant evolution in its executive leadership and ownership structure. The family-owned insurance and financial consulting firm has appointed its first non-family member as President, part of a meticulously planned succession that aims to perpetuate its legacy of independence for generations to come.

Dan Coast, a veteran of the firm with nearly two decades of service, will ascend to the role of President. This historic appointment is the centerpiece of a broader leadership transition that sees Thomas B. Grealish move from President & CEO to the dual role of CEO and Executive Chairman, while Daniel P. Grealish, Sr. transitions from Executive Chairman to the advisory position of Chairman Emeritus. The changes signal a deliberate blend of continuity and fresh perspective, reinforcing the company's commitment to stability as it navigates a competitive and consolidating industry.

A New Chapter in a 133-Year History

The appointment of Dan Coast as President marks a pivotal moment for Henderson Brothers. Having joined the company in 2006, Coast has been instrumental in the growth of its Property & Casualty division, which he previously led as Managing Director. His promotion from within underscores the firm's philosophy of cultivating internal talent. Colleagues describe his leadership style as calm and thoughtful, a quality that has served clients well in navigating complex risk management scenarios.

“Because we are committed to remaining independent, it was essential that we select a leader with a proven track record who shares our vision and values,” said Thomas B. Grealish, the firm's CEO and Executive Chairman. “Dan is exceptionally well-suited for this position, bringing a steady demeanor and thoughtful leadership as he navigates clients through complex situations and empowers his colleagues. He consistently leads with assurance, transparency, and genuine concern for both clients and team members.”

The decision to appoint Coast was a unanimous one by the Grealish family, the leadership team, and the Board of Directors, reflecting deep confidence in his ability to guide the organization. In his new role, Coast will oversee the firm's day-to-day operations, drawing on his deep understanding of its integrated approach to client service across business insurance, employee benefits, and financial consulting.

While Coast takes the operational helm, the Grealish family remains deeply embedded in the firm’s strategic direction. As CEO and Executive Chairman, Thomas B. Grealish will continue to shape the company's long-term vision and mentor the next generation of leaders. Daniel P. Grealish, Sr., as Chairman Emeritus, will leverage his decades of experience to maintain key client relationships and continue his prominent role in community philanthropy, ensuring the family's enduring connection to the region it has served since 1893.

The Blueprint for Enduring Independence

The leadership transition is intrinsically linked to another cornerstone of the firm’s future-proofing strategy: the expansion of employee ownership. Henderson Brothers announced it is adding a new class of employee shareholders in 2025, bringing the total number of owners to 33. This follows the initial rollout of its internal perpetuation plan in 2024 and signals a clear path for future expansion of the equity program.

This strategy is a powerful counter-narrative to the wave of mergers and acquisitions sweeping the insurance brokerage industry. By creating a broader base of internal owners, the firm establishes a sustainable mechanism for succession and capital structure that is not dependent on an external sale. For independent agencies, employee ownership models are a proven tool for retaining top talent, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, and ensuring that the firm's culture and client-first ethos are preserved. Employees with a direct financial stake in the company's success are often more engaged, innovative, and committed to its long-term health.

This model not only secures the firm's independence but also creates a progressive and balanced capital structure. It supports sustained investment in technology, talent, and strategic initiatives while ensuring operational and strategic control remains within the company. For a firm that prides itself on its legacy, this move ensures that the future is shaped by those who are most invested in its success—its own people.

Cultivating Leadership from Within

The promotion of Dan Coast is complemented by other key leadership appointments that highlight the depth of talent within Henderson Brothers. Pete Horne, who has served as General Counsel, will expand his responsibilities by taking on the additional role of Chief Operating Officer. His legal and business acumen will be critical in steering the firm’s operational framework through its next phase of growth.

Succeeding Coast as the head of the Property & Casualty division is Sara Bianco, who has been appointed Managing Director. Her promotion from Manager of Client Services demonstrates a clear pathway for advancement within the organization and a commitment to placing leaders with a deep understanding of client needs in critical positions.

Further cementing the multi-generational vision, Daniel W. Grealish, a representative of the family’s fourth generation, continues in his role as Director of Finance. He is slated to assume the role of Chairman in the future, a plan that ensures the Grealish family's guiding principles will continue to influence the firm's governance for years to come. This careful orchestration of roles—blending seasoned non-family executives with the next generation of family leadership—creates a robust and balanced governance structure designed for longevity.

“I am incredibly proud of the leadership team we’ve built and the future ahead,” said Daniel P. Grealish, Sr. “This transition reflects the strength of our people and our commitment to thoughtful, values-driven leadership.”

Strategic Growth and Regional Strength

These internal strategic shifts are providing a strong foundation for Henderson Brothers' continued external growth. With approximately 185 employees, the firm has recently expanded its geographic footprint into Central Ohio, establishing a presence in Columbus. This move builds upon its long-held position as the largest independent, family-owned insurance agency in the Greater Pittsburgh region. The expansion allows the firm to extend its integrated service model—spanning business insurance, employee benefits, retirement consulting, and personal wealth management—to a new and growing market.

The firm's ability to thrive as an independent entity for over a century is a testament to its strong community ties, client advocacy, and a business model that prioritizes personalized service over shareholder returns dictated by public markets. By doubling down on its independence through a strengthened leadership team and broader employee ownership, Henderson Brothers is positioning itself not just to survive, but to dominate as a regional powerhouse.

This strategy allows the firm to remain agile and responsive to the needs of its thousands of clients, which range from individuals and small businesses to large corporations and nonprofit organizations. As the company continues to evolve, its leadership is confident that its core values will remain its primary competitive advantage.

“Our future is exciting, our potential is limitless,” Thomas B. Grealish stated. “As we grow and evolve, we remain anchored by our legacy and culture of entrepreneurship, world-class customer service, and our deep sense of community and family.”