Old Republic International Corporation Welcomes New COO for Excess and Surplus Lines Division

Old Republic International Corporation, a prominent name in the insurance sector, has announced a significant strategic hire within its ranks. On August 6, 2026, the company appointed John Paulk as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO) for Old Republic Excess & Surplus. This strategic decision is expected to bolster the operational capabilities and performance of the division.

According to Craig Smiddy, the President and CEO of Old Republic International, this appointment marks a pivotal development for the organization. He noted that John Paulk brings over 20 years of executive experience to the role, including extensive knowledge of the specialty Excess and Surplus (ES) space. John has a proven track record in leading high-performance teams and optimizing business operations—qualities that align perfectly with Old Republic's goals for growth and excellence.

In his new position, John will report directly to Ralph Sabbagh, President of Old Republic Excess & Surplus. Together, they are expected to collaborate closely to enhance the operational frameworks, drive strategic initiatives, and position Old Republic as a top-tier insurer in the Excess and Surplus market.

Old Republic has a legacy that dates back to 1923, establishing itself as a leader in the property and casualty insurance domains. As a Fortune 500 company, Old Republic excels in providing unparalleled underwriting and risk management services to its partners across the United States and Canada. With a multitude of specialized operating companies, they pride themselves on leveraging their industry expertise to deliver tailored insurance solutions that meet the unique needs of their clients.

John Paul's appointment signals a commitment to maintaining high standards in operational performance and customer service, reinforcing Old Republic's mission of delivering quality insurance solutions. With a focus on optimizing business processes, John's leadership is anticipated to enhance the agility and responsiveness of Old Republic Excess & Surplus in a competitive insurance landscape.

As the insurance industry continues to evolve, the need for effective leadership and innovative practices is more critical than ever. Old Republic's strategic hire reflects its aim to adapt and thrive amidst changing market conditions while safeguarding its long-standing reputation. The collaboration between Ralph Sabbagh and John Paulk is poised to usher in an era of growth and renewed focus on operational excellence, further solidifying Old Republic's place as a leader in the Excess and Surplus insurance sector.

For more insights into Old Republic and their offerings, you can visit their official website at oldrepublic.com. The company remains committed to transparency and communication, ensuring stakeholders are informed about significant developments and changes within the organization.

In conclusion, John's arrival as COO is not just a change in personnel but a strategic move designed to enhance Old Republic's operational framework and competitive edge. The insurance market's complexity demands a proactive and effective leadership approach—traits exemplified by John Paulk's impressive career. The Old Republic team looks forward to working with him to build upon the company's successes and drive future growth in the Excess and Surplus lines of business.