Old Republic Surety Announces Leadership Changes with Steve Denault as President and Alan Pavlic as CEO

Old Republic International Corp has announced key leadership changes at Old Republic Surety, with Steve Denault as President and Alan Pavlic as CEO, effective immediately. These changes are part of the company's strategy to continue its growth and transformation in the surety marketplace. The appointment of experienced leaders with proven track records in the industry is seen as a positive step towards enhanced operational efficiency and market expansion. However, there may be potential challenges in transitioning leadership roles smoothly and uncertainty about how new leadership will impact company culture and operations.

Old Republic International Corp (NYSE: ORI) has announced significant changes in the senior management of its subsidiary, Old Republic Surety Company. Effective immediately, Steve Denault has been appointed as President, while Alan Pavlic takes on the role of CEO. These leadership changes are part of the company's strategy to continue its growth and transformation in the surety marketplace.

Steve Denault, 59, brings extensive experience to his new role. He joined Old Republic in January 2025 after spending 33 years at COUNTRY Financial, where he held various executive positions, including Chief Operating Officer and CEO Advisor. He holds a master's degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Illinois and is a graduate of Illinois State University.

Alan Pavlic, 65, has been with Old Republic since 2005, initially serving as Senior Vice President and Claims General Counsel. He was promoted to President in 2013 and has led the company's expansion in the U.S. surety bond market. Pavlic holds a bachelor's degree from Albion College and a juris doctor from Michigan State University College of Law.

Craig R. Smiddy, Old Republic International's President and Chief Executive Officer, commented on the leadership transition, noting Pavlic's achievements in expanding the company's presence in the surety marketplace. Smiddy also expressed optimism about the future under Denault's leadership, looking forward to continued profitable growth and transformation.

These appointments signal a strategic focus on growth and operational efficiency. However, potential challenges in transitioning leadership roles smoothly and uncertainty about how new leadership will impact company culture and operations are also factors to consider. Investors and financial professionals should monitor the company's progress closely to assess the impact of these changes.

References:
[1] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/old-republic-announces-senior-management-changes-at-old-republic-surety-302506978.html
[2] https://www.tradingview.com/news/reuters.com,2025:newsml_L6N3TE08K:0-old-republic-appoints-denault-and-pavlic-to-lead-surety-business/
[3] https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/old-republic-announces-leadership-changes-at-surety-unit-93CH-4138238
[4] https://www.gurufocus.com/news/2982220/old-republic-international-corp-announces-key-leadership-changes-at-old-republic-surety-ori-stock-news