Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Announces Leadership Succession Following Passing of Lead Independent Director

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. is mourning the loss of David Johnson, who served as the company’s lead independent director since 2016 and had been a board member since 2003. Johnson, a former CEO of North America for Aryzta AG, was a key figure in the company’s Compensation, Nominating/Governance, and Risk and Compliance committees. In response to his passing, the board has reduced its total size to eight members and appointed Ralph Nicoletti as the new lead independent director. Nicoletti, a board member since 2016, previously chaired the Audit Committee. Additionally, John Coldman has been tapped to join the Compensation and Nominating/Governance committees. This leadership transition occurs during a period of significant growth for the insurance brokerage giant. Following the $13.45 billion acquisition of AssuredPartners, Gallagher reported a 28% year-over-year revenue increase to $4.76 billion for Q1 2026, with net earnings reaching $823 million. The firm’s brokerage segment generated $4.29 billion, while its Gallagher Bassett risk management division saw 14% growth. With nine integrations completed in the first quarter alone, the firm continues to prioritize a balanced strategy of organic expansion and disciplined M&A activity.