Safety Insurance’s Brussard to Retire as Chairman, Insurer Will Welcome Two New Members to Board of Directors
Safety Insurance Group, Inc. has announced significant changes to its Board of Directors, according to the company’s April 7, 2023 press release. These changes include the retirement of David F. Brussard, the appointment of Charles J. Brophy III and Dennis J. Langwell, and the elevation of CEO George M. Murphy as the Chairman of the Board. These updates will take effect on May 17, 2023, at the annual meeting of stockholders.
David Brussard leaves as chairperson of the board
Safety Insurance reported that the current Chairman of the Board, David F. Brussard, has informed the company of his intention to retire and not seek re-election at the annual meeting. Brussard, who has played a pivotal role in establishing Safety Insurance as a leading property and casualty writer in New England, served as the President and CEO from 2001 until his retirement in 2016. The company announced that George M. Murphy, President and CEO of Safety, will assume the role of Chairperson of the Board following Brussard’s retirement, in addition to his current roles.
Insurer announces board of directors’ expansion from six to eight members
As part of its ongoing board refreshment process, Safety’s Board of Directors has decided to expand its board to eight members. With the appointments of Brophy and Langwell, six of the company’s eight directors will have joined the board within the past five and a half years.
Charles Brophy from HUB International named as one of two new members
Charles J. Brophy III, the Regional President (US East) of HUB International, brings over 30 years of experience in the insurance industry to the board. Named the 2016 Massachusetts Insurance Professional of the Year, (See Agency Checklists’ article of October 18, 2016, “A Chat With Charles “Charley” Brophy, CEO & President of Hub International New England“, Brophy has led significant growth at HUB International, New England, and overseen numerous acquisitions of independent agencies and other service entities that have expanded the company’s product offerings.
Dennis Langwell formerly of Liberty Mutual also to join the board
Safety Insurance also reported that Dennis J. Langwell, a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience at Liberty Mutual Insurance, has held various strategic and financial positions at the Fortune 100 company. Langwell retired in 2021 from Liberty Mutual, with his most recent position being Vice Chairman of Insurance Operations. He previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the overall Liberty Mutual organization from 2003 to 2018, where he guided the company’s financial strategy and oversaw nearly 20 acquisitions, contributing to significant premium growth.
Safety’s continuing commitment to the American Agency System
According to the company, the addition of Mr. Brophy and Langwell to Safety’s Board of Directors demonstrates Safety’s commitment to broadening its expertise, driving value for stockholders, and maintaining its role as a leading independent agent insurance carrier in New England.
