RLI reveals next CEO as Michael plans to step down after 19 years

US specialty insurer RLI's chief executive officer Jonathan Michael is stepping down at the end of 2021 as part of its succession planning process. He will be replaced by current president and COO Craig Kliethermes.

Michael announced that he will retire as CEO, a position he has held since 2001. He has served as chairman of the board since 2011 and will remain in that capacity after stepping down as CEO.

Kliethermes will succeed Michael as new chief executive effective January 1, 2022.

Kliethermes joined RLI in 2006 and has 35 years of industry experience. He was promoted to RLI president and COO in 2016, and previously served as senior vice president, Risk Services since 2013.

Prior to joining RLI, Kliethermes served in leadership roles with Lockton Companies, GE Insurance/Employers Reinsurance and John Deere Insurance Company.

“On behalf of our Board of Directors, we are pleased to announce our plan for Craig to become our next CEO, the third in our company’s 55-year history,” said Michael. “Craig is a proven leader who has driven strong operating results through a relentless commitment to our customers and associates. I have great confidence in his ability to lead and inspire our organization to achieve continued success in the years to come.”

He added: “Having served RLI for 19 years as CEO and nearly four decades in an executive role, I believe the time is right for a leadership change. Craig and I will be working together over the next year to ensure a smooth transition. I’m proud of our talented team and all we have achieved to create tremendous value for all RLI stakeholders.”

John Baily, lead director of RLI’s board of directors, said: “This announcement is the successful culmination of our Board’s multiyear succession plan to select the best future leader for the company. Craig has worked closely with the Board over the past several years, and we look forward to what he will bring to the company as CEO.

“On behalf of the entire Board, I want to thank Jon for his successful tenure as CEO. Under his leadership, the company has profitably grown into a sustainable enterprise that is well-positioned for the future.”

Kliethermes commented: “I am honored to be selected as the next CEO of RLI, and want to thank both Jon and the Board for the opportunity and confidence they have placed in me to lead this strong organization. I look forward to working with our associates to continue delivering exceptional value to our customers, distribution partners and shareholders.”