Hanover Insurance names Zubretsky new CEO

Courtesy The Hanover Insurance Group Joseph M. Zubretsky will take over as president and CEO of The Hanover Insurance Group beginning in June.

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By Sam Bonacci

The Hanover Insurance Group announced Monday morning Joseph M. Zubretsky will take over as president and CEO beginning in June.

Zubretsky will take over from Frederick Eppinger, who announced his retirement last year. The transition will take place on June 20, with both working together to manage the transition, according to a release for the company.

Zubretsky, 59, comes into the position with more than 35 years of experience and most recently served as the CEO of Healthagen Holdings, a group of healthcare services and information technology companies at Aetna, where he was also on the board of directors.

"He brings broad insurance experience, a deep understanding of the independent agency distribution channel, a strategic orientation, risk management expertise, and an impressive record of building market-leading companies. Our board is confident that he is uniquely qualified to work with our exceptional leadership team to continue our company's success and expand our business,” Michael P. Angelini, chairman of The Hanover's board of directors, said in a statement.

Zubretsky said he looks forward to continuing to build on the momentum created by Eppinger’s 13 years as CEO of the company. During Eppinger’s time at the company, Hanover has extended its reach globally, according to the company, and more than doubled in size.

“I look forward to working with the outstanding team at The Hanover, to build on the company's excellent market position, deliver high-quality insurance solutions, strong and sustainable profitable growth,” Zubretsky said in a statement.

One of Zubretsky’s first major decisions as new CEO will be to permanently fill the chief financial officer position left vacant after the death of David Greenfield last year. The board will provide a short list of candidates to fill the role currently held on an interim basis by Gene Bullis, but the position will be filled by Zubretsky, according to an interview Eppinger gave Worcester Business Journal.

Eppinger said the company is positioned well for further growth.

“Joe brings experience and a perspective that will enable the organization to reach its full potential and prosper over the long term, benefiting its many constituents,” Eppinger said in a statement.