OLD REPUBLIC ANNOUNCES SENIOR MANAGEMENT CHANGES AT BITCO INSURANCE COMPANIES

Rhea-AI Summary

Old Republic (NYSE: ORI) announced leadership changes at BITCO Insurance Companies effective April 1, 2026. Meyer Lehman will become President and Chief Executive Officer, and Vince Lamb will move to Executive Chairman. The company describes the move as planned succession to preserve continuity and institutional knowledge.

Management continuity and succession planning were emphasized, with CEO Craig Smiddy noting confidence in Lehman's leadership and Lamb's ongoing counsel.

Positive

• Meyer Lehman named President and CEO effective April 1, 2026
• Vince Lamb to remain as Executive Chairman preserving institutional knowledge
• Company cites thoughtful succession planning to ensure leadership continuity

Negative

• Leadership transition creates potential short-term execution or integration risk starting April 1, 2026

CHICAGO, March 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Old Republic International Corporation (NYSE: ORI) – Old Republic International today announced a leadership transition at BITCO Insurance Companies, effective April 1, 2026. Meyer Lehman has been named President and Chief Executive Officer, and Vince Lamb, BITCO's current Chief Executive Officer, will become Executive Chairman.

In making this announcement, Craig Smiddy, Old Republic International's President and Chief Executive Officer, commented that "Meyer is a proven leader with the experience, judgment, and people-first approach that aligns closely with Old Republic's culture and operating philosophy. He has earned the trust of BITCO's colleagues, agents, and business partners, and we are confident in his ability to lead BITCO forward. This move reflects thoughtful succession planning and ensures we will continue to benefit from Vince's deep institutional knowledge, leadership, and steady counsel."

About Old Republic

Old Republic is a leading specialty insurer that operates diverse property & casualty and title insurance companies. Founded in 1923 and a member of the Fortune 500, we are a leader in underwriting and risk management services for business partners across the United States and Canada. Our specialized operating companies are experts in their fields, enabling us to provide tailored solutions that set us apart. For more information, please visit www.oldrepublic.com.

At Old Republic:	At Financial Relations Board:
Craig R. Smiddy: President and Chief Executive Officer	Investors: Joe Calabrese/jcalabrese@mww.com

 

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SOURCE Old Republic International Corporation

FAQ

Who is becoming CEO of BITCO under Old Republic (ORI) and when does it take effect?

Meyer Lehman will become President and CEO of BITCO effective April 1, 2026. According to the company, the change is part of planned succession and is intended to preserve continuity while leveraging Lehman's leadership experience.

What role will Vince Lamb hold at BITCO after the ORI leadership change on April 1, 2026?

Vince Lamb will become Executive Chairman of BITCO effective April 1, 2026. According to the company, this preserves Lamb's institutional knowledge and provides steady counsel during and after the leadership transition.

How did Old Republic (ORI) describe the reason for the BITCO leadership transition?

Old Republic described the change as thoughtful succession planning to ensure continuity. According to the company, the move aligns leadership with the firm’s culture and operating philosophy and retains experienced counsel.

Will the BITCO leadership change affect Old Republic (ORI) operations immediately?

The company indicates the change is intended to maintain continuity rather than disrupt operations. According to the company, Lehman's experience and Lamb's continued role aim to minimize operational impact during transition.

Who commented on the BITCO management change at Old Republic (ORI) and what was said?

Craig Smiddy, Old Republic CEO, commented on the transition and praised Lehman’s leadership and people-first approach. According to the company, Smiddy expressed confidence in Lehman and valued Lamb’s ongoing counsel.