The Hanover Names COO Lavey as CEO-Elect Amid Roche’s Retirement
Event summary
- John C. Roche, CEO of The Hanover, to retire December 31, 2026 after a 40-year career.
- Richard W. Lavey, current COO and president of Hanover Agency Markets, named CEO-elect.
- Lavey has held multiple leadership roles at The Hanover since joining in 2004.
- Roche led the company to record operating earnings and stock price appreciation during his tenure.
The big picture
The Hanover’s CEO transition comes amid a period of strong financial performance and strategic repositioning in the independent agency channel. Lavey’s appointment underscores the company’s focus on leveraging technology to drive growth, a critical factor in an increasingly digital insurance landscape.
What we're watching
- Leadership Continuity
- How Lavey’s deep internal experience will shape The Hanover’s strategic direction.
- Strategic Vision
- Whether Lavey can sustain the company’s growth and profitability in core commercial and personal lines.
- Market Positioning
- The pace at which The Hanover advances its technology-driven operating model under new leadership.