Proxy Statement (Form DEF 14A)
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
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NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING AND PROXY STATEMENT
440
Letter to our Shareholders from |
TO OUR FELLOW SHAREHOLDERS:
You are cordially invited to attend the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of
The accompanying Notice and Proxy Statement describe in detail the matters to be acted on at the Annual Meeting. This Proxy Statement also describes the corporate governance policies and practices that guide the Board's oversight of the Company's business, risks, conduct, human capital management matters and sustainability efforts for the long-term benefit of our stakeholders. The Board, on behalf of our shareholders, is actively engaged in the governance, audit, compensation and other matters addressed in this Proxy Statement.
Your vote is important to us. We hope you will vote as soon as possible. Please review the instructions concerning each of your voting options described in this Proxy Statement. Your cooperation will assure that your shares are voted and will also greatly assist us in preparing for the Annual Meeting.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, the executive leadership team and all our employees, we would like to thank you for your investment and continued support of
Sincerely,
Chair of the Board of Directors and Independent Presiding Director |
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director |
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON
To the Shareholders of
Set forth below are details regarding the 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of
LOCATION: |
Our principal executive office and corporate headquarters, 440 |
DATE AND TIME: |
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ITEMS OF BUSINESS: |
(1)
The election of five individuals to the Board of Directors;
(2)
The advisory approval of the Company's executive compensation;
(3)
The ratification of the appointment of
(4)
Such other business as may properly come before the Annual Meeting or any adjournment thereof.
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LOCATION: Our principal executive office and corporate headquarters,
DATE AND TIME:
RECORD DATE: |
The Board of Directors has fixed |
By Order of the Board of Directors,
CHARLES
Senior Vice President and Secretary
Your vote is important. Whether or not you plan to attend the Annual Meeting, you are requested to vote your shares. Please follow the voting instructions set forth in the Proxy Statement. If you attend the Annual Meeting and desire to withdraw your proxy and vote at the Annual Meeting, you may do so. |
PROXY STATEMENT FOR THE ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Stock Ownership by the Company's Directors and Executive Officers |
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Stock Ownership Guidelines for Named Executive Officers and Directors |
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ITEM II-ADVISORY APPROVAL OF THE COMPANY'S EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION |
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ITEM III-RATIFICATION OF INDEPENDENT, REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM |
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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT PROXY MATERIALS AND THE ANNUAL MEETING |
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AP-1 |
PROXY STATEMENT SUMMARY
For the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on
This summary highlights some of the important information contained elsewhere in our Proxy Statement. We encourage you to read the entire Proxy Statement before voting.
Voting Matters
Agenda Item |
Board Recommendation |
See Page |
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1. |
Election of five director nominees |
FOReach nominee |
22 |
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2. |
Advisory approval of executive compensation |
FOR |
23 |
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3. |
Ratification of the appointment of the independent auditor |
FOR |
24 |
Corporate Governance Highlights
✓
Nine of ten directors are independent
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✓
Active shareholder engagement
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✓
Majority vote for director elections
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✓
Strong risk oversight at Board and committee level
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✓
Separate Board Chair and CEO
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✓
Diverse Board composition
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✓
Annual review of governance documents
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✓
Policy to limit outside director time commitments
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✓
Sustainability oversight at Board and committee level
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✓
Fully declassified Board effective 2027
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✓
Effective Board refreshment process - added three new directors in last four years and seeking approval of new director this year
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2024 Financial Highlights
Net Income of |
Combined ratio of 94.8% |
Net written premiums increased 4.7% |
Increased ordinary quarterly dividend by 5.9% |
Executive Compensation
Principal Components of Executive Compensation |
Annual base salary |
Short-term incentive compensation |
Long-term incentive compensation (stock options/performance-based restricted stock units ("PBRSUs")/time-based restricted stock units ("TBRSUs")) |
Strong Compensation Practices |
✓
Multi-year vesting for long-term awards
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✓
Significant stock ownership requirements for directors/executive officers
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✓
"Double trigger" for change in control benefits under the Employment Continuity Plan
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✓
NYSE-compliant clawback policy for executive officers
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✓
Robust recoupment provisions in all equity award agreements for executive officers, including NEOs, and other key employees, which provide for clawback of value earned upon vesting of TBRSUs and PBRSUs and exercise of stock options, if triggered
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✓
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✓
No "280G tax gross-ups" or excessive perquisites
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✓
Do not re-price stock options
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✓
Cap payouts under variable incentive compensation programs for executives
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General Information |
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Corporate Website: |
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www.hanover.comunder "Investors" |
Annual Report: |
www.hanover.comunder "Investors - Annual reports" |
Corporate Responsibility: |
www.hanover.comunder "About The Hanover - Our corporate commitment" |
This Proxy Statement includes links to our website and references to additional materials found on our website. Such information is not a part of or incorporated into this Proxy Statement. |
Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on The Proxy Statement and Annual Report to Shareholders are available atwww.proxydocs.com/THG. |
PROXY STATEMENT
We have made these proxy materials available to you on or about
COMPANY STOCK OWNERSHIP
Stock Ownership by the Company'sDirectors and Executive Officers
The following table sets forth information regarding the number of shares of THG's common stock, par value
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Shares Beneficially Owned† |
Percent of Class |
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3,233 |
* |
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8,272 |
* |
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5,211 |
* |
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0 |
(1) |
* |
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J. Paul Condrin III |
4,532 |
(2) |
* |
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0 |
(3) |
* |
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12,759 |
* |
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131,321 |
(4) |
* |
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31,225 |
(5) |
* |
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1,926 |
(6) |
* |
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138,258 |
(7) |
* |
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32,010 |
(2) |
* |
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425,773 |
(8) |
1.2% |
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87,771 |
(9) |
* |
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4,059 |
* |
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Current directors and executive officers, as a group (17 persons) |
924,908 |
(10) |
2.5% |
† |
As to shares listed in this column, each person has sole voting and investment power, except as indicated in other footnotes to this table. Some directors have deferred receipt of certain stock grants from the Company. Deferred shares are held in a rabbi trust (the "Rabbi Trust") by the trustee, |
* |
Less than 1%. |
Stock Ownership Guidelines for NamedExecutive Officers and Directors
Named Executive Officers
Within 18 months of becoming subject to our stock ownership guidelines, each NEO, and each of our other executive officers, should achieve an ownership level in our Common Stock with a value equal to one time his or her base salary. Within three years of becoming subject to these guidelines, each executive officer, including each NEO, should achieve and maintain an ownership level with a value equal to at least two to four times his or her base salary (four to six times base salary for the Chief Executive Officer (the "CEO")). The guidelines credit shares held outright by the officer and by immediate family members residing in the same household, whether held individually or jointly by the officer or the immediate family member, unvested restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance-based restricted stock units (measured at target), shares held in estate planning vehicles of the officer, and any shares that have been earned but the payment of which has been deferred. Regardless of their vesting status, shares subject to unexercised stock options are not counted when determining ownership under the guidelines. For these purposes, shares are valued based upon the then-current market value, or if higher, the value on the date of acquisition.
Each of our current NEOs is in compliance with the guidelines. Set forth below is a table that indicates, as of
NEO |
Year Hired |
Number of Shares Counted under Stock Ownership Guidelines |
Ownership Level as a Multiple of Base Salary |
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2006 |
192,140 |
27.4 |
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2016 |
65,557 |
13.3 |
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2004 |
51,044 |
11.1 |
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2017 |
36,540 |
8.5 |
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2020 |
16,845 |
4.4 |
Board of Directors
Within four years from the date of first being elected to the Board, each non-employee director should achieve an ownership level in our Common Stock with a value equal to four times the value of the regular annual stock retainer paid to directors for service on the Board. This requirement can be satisfied by purchases in the open market or by holding grants received from the Company (including share grants that the director has elected to defer under Company-sponsored deferred compensation programs). The guidelines credit directors for shares held outright by the director and by his or her immediate family members residing in the same household, whether held individually or jointly by the director or the immediate family member, and shares held in estate planning vehicles of the director. For these purposes, shares are valued based upon the then-current market value, or if higher, the value on the date of acquisition.
Each of our non-employee directors is in compliance with our stock ownership guidelines, including those directors on track to achieve ownership levels within the prescribed time following their initial election to the Board. Set forth below is a table that indicates, as of
determined based upon the current market value (
Non-Employee Director |
Year First Elected to Board |
Number of Shares Counted under Stock Ownership Guidelines |
Ownership Level as a Multiple of the Value of the Annual Stock Retainer |
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2022 |
3,233 |
3.5 |
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2018 |
8,272 |
9.0 |
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2020 |
5,211 |
5.7 |
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2016 |
5,929 |
6.5 |
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J. Paul Condrin III |
2021 |
4,532 |
4.9 |
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2015 |
12,759 |
13.9 |
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2018 |
5,778 |
6.3 |
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2004 |
32,010 |
34.9 |
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2022 |
4,059 |
4.4 |
Largest Owners of the Company's Stock
The following table lists the only persons who, to the best of the Company's knowledge, are "beneficial owners" (as defined by
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Shares Beneficially Owned |
Percent of Class |
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3,623,766 (1) |
10.0% |
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3,291,658 (2) |
9.1% |
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50 Hudson Yards |
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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The Board has long been focused on and committed to responsible and effective corporate governance in order to promote sustainable, long-term shareholder value. The following section: (i) identifies our director nominees and continuing directors, highlights their qualifications, describes the director nomination and evaluation processes, and provides a snapshot of Board expertise, diversity and tenure on an aggregate basis; (ii) describes the Board's independence from management and its leadership structure; (iii) outlines the standing Board committees and their oversight responsibilities; and (iv) describes the Board's commitment to supporting sustainability and human capital management matters.
The Board has adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines that can be found on the Company's website atwww.hanover.comunder "About The Hanover-Our governance-Corporate governance guidelines." For a printed copy of the guidelines, shareholders should contact the Company's Corporate Secretary,
At the Company's 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, our shareholders approved an amendment to the Company's Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (the "Charter") to declassify the Board beginning at the 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders so that, as existing class terms expire, directors are elected for a one-year term. The amendment did not change the unexpired three-year terms of directors elected prior to the effectiveness of the amendment, including the directors elected at the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. The Board will be fully declassified beginning at the 2027 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, when the term of the last elected class of directors has expired.
There are five nominees for election to the Board this year. Messrs. Bradicich, Bunting, Donnell, Ramrath and Roche are each being nominated to serve for a one-year term expiring at the next annual meeting.
The Board has voted to increase the size of the Board to 11 members, concurrent with the election of
Information regarding the business experience and qualifications of each nominee and continuing director is provided below. Following the individual director descriptions, we have provided the current key competencies and diversity profile of the Board on an aggregate basis in the section titled "Board Profile and Diversity" beginning on page9. Additionally, we highlight Board tenure and refreshment beginning on page11. For a description of the skill set that the Board seeks in a director and how the individual and collective director qualifications set forth below tie to the Board's expectations, see "Director Qualifications" on page12.
DirectorNominees
Age: 67 Director since 2018 Compensation and Human Capital Committee Member |
Skills & Qualifications:We believe If re-elected, |
Theodore H. Age: 66 Director since 2020 Audit Committee Member |
Skills & Qualifications:We believe If re-elected, |
Age: 67 |
Skills & Qualifications:We believe If elected, |
Age: 68 Director since 2004 Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Chair |
Skills & Qualifications:We believe If re-elected, |
Age: 61 Director since 2017 President and CEO |
Skills & Qualifications:We believe If re-elected, |
Directors Continuing in Office
Age: 59 Director since 2022 Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Member |
Skills & Qualifications:We believe |
Age: 69 Director since 2016 Audit Committee Chair |
Skills & Qualifications:We believe |
J. Paul Condrin III Age: 63 Director since 2021 Compensation and Human Capital Committee Chair |
Skills & Qualification:We believe |
Age: 69 Director since 2015 Chair of the Board Compensation and Human Capital Committee Member |
From 2007 until her retirement in 2012, Skills & Qualifications:We believe |
Age: 67 Director since 2018 Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee Member |
Skills & Qualifications:We believe |
Age: 60 Director since 2022 Audit Committee Member |
Skills & Qualifications:We believe |
Board Profile and Diversity
The Board regularly evaluates its performance and composition and assesses each individual director's and director nominee's skills and expertise to ensure alignment with the Company's overall long-term strategy. The Board believes diversity among its members provides the Company with extensive insight, perspective and experience that are important to effective corporate governance and in addressing the complex challenges that the Company faces. As set forth in the Charter of the NCGC, the Board considers each director's and director nominee's business experience, skills and expertise, and may consider the representation of diverse backgrounds when seeking members who represent a broad array of experiences and expertise in the context of the evolving needs of the Board.
The NCGC maintains a comprehensive skills and experience matrix for evaluating the background and skill set of the Board on both an individual and collective basis. The matrix details key competencies, demographic information, and outside public company board, committee, committee chair and CEO experience. The NCGC tracks each director's level of current and developing expertise across the key competencies in order for the Board to ensure that it can effectively oversee the long-term success of the Company and to align with the Company's goal of being a premier property and casualty insurance company in the independent agency channel.
On a collective basis, the Board has expertise in the following categories of key competencies:
• |
capital markets |
• |
risk management |
• |
financial services |
• |
information security |
• |
mergers, acquisitions, and strategic business combinations |
• |
artificial intelligence / big data |
• |
finance / accounting |
• |
legal / regulatory |
• |
investments / portfolio management |
• |
investor relations |
• |
technology |
• |
corporate strategy |
• |
marketing and distribution |
• |
human resources / human capital management |
• |
governance |
• |
sustainability |
• |
government and public policy |
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• |
property & casualty insurance (beyond service on our Board), including two sub-categories, one for underwriting and one for distribution |
On a collective basis, the demographic profile of all director nominees and directors continuing in office after the Annual Meeting is reflected below.
Independence 90% Independent(9 of 10 members) Racial/Ethnic Diversity 20% People of Color(2 of 10 members) Gender Diversity 40% Female(4 of 10 members)
Board Leadership Roles 50% Female Leadership in Board Chair and Committee Chair roles(2 of 4 roles)
Independence 91% Independent (10 of 11 members) Racial/Ethnic Diversity 18% People of Color (2 of 11 members)
Gender Diversity 36% Female (4 of 11 members) Board Leadership Roles 50% Female Leadership in Board Chair and Committee Chair roles (2 of 4 roles)
Director Independence
Under the
Until
After review by, and following the recommendation of the NCGC, the Board determined that every director and director nominee is independent under the applicable standards, with the exception of
There are no family relationships among any of the directors, director nominees or executive officers of the Company.
Board Refreshment and Tenure
The Board recognizes the importance of Board refreshment to provide new ideas and perspectives and strives to balance refreshment with the benefits of tenure, namely Company Board experience and continuity. Accordingly, the Board is committed to actively refreshing the full Board and each of its committees to maintain a mix of tenured directors, promote effective corporate governance, and proactively manage potential vacancies due to retirement. The Board engages a third-party recruiter to identify and recommend diverse and skilled candidates that will complement the current Board and support the Company's strategy and values. Since the beginning of 2021, we have added three new directors, and four directors retired from the Board. This year the Board is recommending a new director for election by the shareholders. For purposes of providing a current snapshot of the Board, all director nominees and directors continuing in office after the Annual Meeting are included in the Board tenure profile below.
0 - 4 years 4 - 8 years 8+ years Average Tenure is 6.4 years
Board Tenure 8+ years 9 Average Tenure: 4.8 years 55% 0-4 years 5-8 years 36%
Consideration of Director Nominees
The NCGC may identify candidates for nomination to the Board through several sources, including third-party recruiters, recommendations from non-management directors, shareholders, the CEO, other executive officers, or other resources. As illustrated below, NCGC members first assess the current needs of the Board based on the key competencies discussed above and then proceed to evaluating and nominating appropriate director candidates whose skills, experience, and expertise can augment the key competencies the NCGC and the Board have identified.
Assess Identify Evaluate Nominate •Assess skills matrix. •Consider desired skills in light of current needs of the Board and the Company's strategy. •Review director qualification considerations as set forth in the NCGC Charter, including independence. •Third-party recruiters, non-management directors, executive officers, or other resources identify potential candidates in light of desired skill set. •Shareholders have the ability to present director candidates. •NCGC members review skills and expertise, qualifications, independence, and potential conflicts, and may consider diversity, of top candidates. •NCGC members and other members of the Board conduct interviews and inquiries with references. •NCGC recommends candidates and committee assignments to the full Board. •Board considers and acts on recommendations.
Director Qualifications
Members of the Board and nominees for election should possess high personal and professional ethics, have integrity and values, represent our core "CARE" (Collaboration,Accountability,Respect,Empowerment) values, and be committed to representing the long-term interests of the Company and its shareholders, employees, agents, customers and local communities. To maintain a majority of independent directors on the Board, as required by our Corporate Governance Guidelines, the NCGC and the Board have a strong preference that nominees meet our independence standards. Board members and nominees should demonstrate initiative, be participatory and contribute a perspective based on practical experience and mature judgment. The Board seeks members who represent a broad array of experiences and expertise in the context of the evolving needs of the Board. While we do not have a policy in this regard, when evaluating a candidate for Board membership, the NCGC and the Board may also take into consideration factors such as diversity of race, gender, ethnicity, background and age. Additionally, during its evaluation of each director nominee, the NCGC and the Board will evaluate each director nominee's time commitments to ensure that members of the Board are able to dedicate sufficient time to the Board and any committees on which such director may serve.
As described above under "Board Profile and Diversity" starting on page9, the NCGC maintains a comprehensive skills and experience matrix for evaluating the background and skill set of the Board on both an individual director and collective basis.
Shareholder Nominees
The NCGC will consider qualified director candidates recommended in writing by shareholders. Shareholders who wish to suggest qualified candidates for consideration by the NCGC may do so by writing and providing to the Company's Corporate Secretary the candidate's name, biographical data, qualifications, and evidence the candidate has agreed to serve if nominated and elected. All such submissions will be forwarded to the NCGC Chair. To allow the committee sufficient time to consider a candidate in advance of an annual meeting, a shareholder should submit recommendations to the Company's Corporate Secretary by no later than
standards, discussed in the preceding paragraphs, will be evaluated in the same manner as other candidates considered by the committee for Board nomination.
In
Separately, in order to comply with the universal proxy rules under the Exchange Act, a shareholder seeking to solicit proxies in support of director nominees other than the Company's nominees must satisfy the advance notice provisions set forth in our By-laws and provide the additional information required by Rule 14a-19 of the Exchange Act.
Related-PersonTransactions
The Board has established a written procedure for the review, approval and/or ratification of "transactions with related persons" (as such term is defined by the
The Related Person Transaction Policy can be found on the Company's website,www.hanover.com, under "About The Hanover-Our governance-Company policies-Related person transaction policy." For a printed copy of the policy, shareholders should contact the Company's Corporate Secretary.
Board Leadership Structure
We maintain a separate leadership structure between the roles of CEO and Chair of the Board in recognition of the differences between the two positions and what we believe best serves the Company at this time. We believe that separating the roles and having an independent Chair of the Board is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders, and is consistent with corporate governance best practices. The separation of CEO and Chair better supports effective management oversight and promotes the Board's oversight of risk management. While we believe these goals can be achieved without separating the CEO and Chair roles, we also take into consideration
The CEO is responsible for the Company's strategic direction, day-to-day leadership, and performance, while the Chair of the Board is responsible for providing guidance to the CEO, setting meeting agendas and presiding over Board and shareholder meetings and over executive sessions of non-management directors (including the
It is the Board's practice that in advance of regularly scheduled Board and committee meetings, the Chair of the Board, each Board committee chair, and the CEO convene to discuss and set the agendas for the respective meetings, based principally on a review of an annual topical calendar, prior discussions among directors and current topics of interest or concern. It is
The Board generally convenes in executive session (i.e., with no members of management present) in connection with regularly scheduled Board meetings and at other times as deemed appropriate. In addition, the Board regularly meets with the CEO with no other members of management present. Directors have regular access to other members of senior management.
Board Meetings and Attendance
During 2024, there were five meetings of the full Board of Directors. In addition to formal Board and committee meetings held throughout the year, directors routinely engage in communications and interactions and convene informal telephonic or in-person meetings for discussion or planning purposes. The Board routinely convenes meetings at our headquarters in
For meetings held in 2024, all of the incumbent directors attended at least 75% of the Board meetings and meetings of committees on which they serve. In addition, as provided in the Company's Corporate Governance Guidelines, all continuing directors and director nominees are expected to attend the Annual Meeting. All the directors serving at the time were present at last year's annual meeting.
Board Committees
The standing committees of the Board consist of the
The current independent members of the Board, the committees on which they serve and the primary roles and responsibilities of each committee are identified below.
Current Members: J. Paul Condrin III Meetings Held in 2024: 8 Independence: In addition to meeting the independence requirements under the NYSE listing standards, the Board has determined that each committee member participating in approving the CEO's compensation also meets the independence requirements under Section 16 ("Section 16") of the Exchange Act. |
The CID, consisting of all the independent members of the Board, discharges such responsibilities as are referred to it from time to time by the Board or one of the Board's other committees. The independent members of the Board typically meet in executive session at every scheduled Board meeting and from time to time meet informally. Roles and Responsibilities: •
Reviews and approves the recommendations of the CHCC and the NCGC, as applicable, with respect to establishing performance criteria (goals and objectives) for our CEO.
•
Evaluates the CEO's performance and approves CEO compensation.
•
Periodically reviews:
o
the Company's strategy, annual business plan and progress;
o
key risks and challenges facing the Company;
o
leadership development and succession planning for executive officers, including the CEO; and
o
other matters addressed during regular Board sessions with management.
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Audit Committee
Current Members: Meetings Held in 2024: 13 Independence: The Board has determined that each committee member satisfies the requirements of the NYSE listing standards as to independence, financial literacy and experience, and satisfies the independence requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Audit Committee Financial Expert: Additionally, the Board has determined that |
The Audit Committee assists the Board in overseeing, among other things, the integrity of the Company's financial statements and related disclosures, accounting and financial reporting processes and internal controls, compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and risk management. The Audit Committee generally meets in executive session with representatives of Roles and Responsibilities: •
The selection and engagement, compensation, retention, evaluation, oversight and, when deemed appropriate, termination of the Company's independent, registered public accounting firm.
•
Annually evaluates the performance of the Company's independent, registered public accounting firm, and determines whether to reengage it or consider other audit firms. Some of the factors considered by the Audit Committee in deciding whether to retain PwC include:
o
PwC's technical expertise and capabilities with respect to audit and non-audit services;
o
PwC's depth of knowledge of the Company's operations and businesses, accounting policies and practices, and internal control over financial reporting, and PwC's tenure as independent auditor, including the relative benefits compared to any concerns that may be associated with a longer tenure;
o
PwC's independence and processes for maintaining its independence;
o
the quality and candor of PwC's communications with the Audit Committee and management; and
o
the appropriateness of PwC's fees relative to the scope and efficiency of the audit and non-audit services provided.
•
Oversees the Company's General Auditor and approval of matters related to the General Auditor's employment and compensation.
•
Reviews and discusses the Company's financial statements and earnings press releases with management and PwC prior to their release.
•
Reviews the arrangements for, and the results of, the auditor's examination of the Company's books and records, auditors' compensation, internal accounting control procedures, and activities and recommendations of the Company's internal auditors, as well as any reports relating to the integrity of our financial statements, internal financial controls or auditing matters that are reported on our anonymous Alertline.
•
Reviews, among other things as detailed in its Charter, the Company's significant accounting policies, the effect of regulatory and accounting initiatives, control systems, reserving practices and information security and disaster recovery programs.
•
Reviews compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, outstanding major litigation (if applicable) and major enterprise risks.
•
Reviews management's approach to managing and mitigating the Company's exposure to data security and privacy risk, and the Company's efforts associated with cybersecurity.
•
Reviews related-person transactions.
•
Assists the Board in assessing the adequacy of the Company's enterprise risk management program.
•
Receives periodic reports regarding developments in the regulatory environment and relevant legislative reforms.
•
Reviews the Company's policies regarding political contributions and activities.
|
Current Members: Meetings Held in 2024: 7 Independence: The Board has determined that each committee member satisfies the independence requirements of the NYSE listing standards, as required by Section 16 and pursuant to any applicable |
The CHCC is responsible for establishing and monitoring our executive compensation programs and overseeing and reviewing our compensation strategies, policies and practices, including those related to corporate culture and human capital development. Roles and Responsibilities: •
Oversees compensation matters involving directors and executive officers of THG and makes compensation decisions regarding our executive officers (other than the CEO).
•
Annually reviews the CEO's performance and other relevant external factors, in conjunction with the Chair of the Board and the NCGC.
•
Makes a recommendation to the CID for the CEO's annual compensation.
•
Provides general oversight of the Company's compensation structure, including compensation plans and benefit programs applicable to all employees.
•
Oversees a risk-based analysis of the Company's incentive arrangements.
•
Periodically reviews the Company's strategies, policies, practices and experience relating to recruiting and retention, personnel practices, succession planning, corporate culture and human capital development, including policies and practices relating to inclusion, diversity and pay equity, except to the extent reviewed by the Board.
|
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
Current Members: Meetings Held in 2024: 6 Independence: The Board has determined that each committee member satisfies the independence requirements of the NYSE listing standards. |
The NCGC advises and makes recommendations to the Board on all matters concerning directorship and corporate governance practices and the selection of candidates as nominees for election as directors. Roles and Responsibilities: •
Establishes, subject to the approval by the Board, the general criteria for selecting new directors.
•
Considers and recruits candidates to fill positions on the Board in consultation with the Board, as appropriate.
•
Coordinates and oversees the Board's evaluation of the individual directors who are eligible for re-nomination and election at each annual meeting.
•
In consultation with the Chair of the Board, recommends Board member committee assignments to the full Board.
•
Facilitates the Board's annual review of the CEO's performance.
•
Monitors sustainability matters, including certain environmental, social and governance efforts.
•
Monitors the Company's corporate citizenship, charitable giving and shareholder advocacy matters.
|
Director Evaluation Process
On an annual basis, the NCGC leads a thorough evaluation process of the Board, each committee and each individual director nominee to ensure that the Board and each committee is functioning in a manner that supports our overall corporate strategy and considers the best interests of our shareholders. Additionally, evaluations of individual director nominees are designed to assess whether the desired skills and perspectives are appropriate based on the needs of the Company at that time. Our evaluation process encompasses an examination of the Board as a whole, each Board committee, and each individual director whose term is expiring at the next annual meeting, to determine if that director should be re-nominated for another term.
The evaluation process consists of formal questionnaires and discussions among directors. The questionnaires are designed to assess, at the Board level and at each committee level, overall effectiveness across multiple evaluation areas, including: governance
processes; whether the Board and the committees are maintaining the proper level of oversight; Board composition and function; meeting content, structure and preparation; and management's interaction with the Board. The NCGC then facilitates discussion of the results of the assessment annually among the Board and each Board committee, with the Chair leading the process for the full Board and each committee chair leading the process for their own committee. Based on results of these evaluations and other factors, changes to the evaluation process are considered and implemented as appropriate. In recent years, feedback has contributed to enhancing new director onboarding, the content of meeting agendas, materials and presentations, and director engagement with other directors and with management.
Evaluations of individual directors who are eligible for re-nomination include a peer review questionnaire that is completed by each of the other directors and reviewed by the Board Chair and NCGC Chair or, in instances where one of these chairs is the subject of an evaluation, by the other chair and another member of the NCGC. The NCGC considers the feedback in its assessment of individual member contributions when making its nomination recommendations to the full Board, who then make final determinations regarding Board-nominated candidates. In addition to the formal director evaluation process, the Chair solicits informal feedback from directors during her follow-up calls to each director after the conclusion of every regularly scheduled Board meeting.
Director Time Commitments
The NCGC and the Board evaluate each director nominee's time commitments to ensure its members have sufficient time to dedicate to the Board and any committees on which such director may serve. In addition to the Board's evaluation and consideration of outside commitments, the Corporate Governance Guidelines include a formal policy regarding outside director service. The time commitment policy provides that, without the approval of the NCGC, current directors and director nominees who are CEOs or serving in executive management positions should serve on no more than one other public company board. Other current directors and other nominees should serve on no more than three other public company boards. All directors and nominees for election are in compliance with this policy.
Communicating with the Board
Shareholders and other interested parties can communicate with the Board, including the non-management directors and the Chair, by writing to
Director Compensation
The CHCC is responsible for advising the Board with respect to the Company's director compensation practices and programs. In executing such responsibilities in 2024, the CHCC reviewed relevant market data provided by its independent compensation consultant,
Based upon its review of the information provided above and the CHCC's recommendation, the Board did not make any changes to director compensation from the levels in effect during the 2023/2024 Annual Compensation Cycle. The director compensation for the 2024/2025 Annual Compensation Cycle, as approved by the Board, is reflected below.
Fees |
2024/2025 Annual Compensation Cycle |
|
Annual Director Retainer |
||
Stock Component (issued pursuant to the 2022 Plan) |
$ |
150,000 |
Cash Component |
$ |
105,000 |
Chair of the Board Annual Retainer |
$ |
125,000 |
Committee Chair Annual Retainers* |
||
NCGC |
$ |
21,000 |
CHCC |
$ |
25,000 |
Audit Committee |
$ |
36,000 |
Committee Member Annual Retainer |
||
NCGC |
$ |
10,000 |
CHCC |
$ |
11,000 |
Audit Committee |
$ |
15,000 |
* Includes both committee chair and committee member retainer.
Pursuant to the Company's 2022 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "2022 Plan"), each non-employee director's annual aggregate compensation for services as a director may not exceed
At the election of each director, (i) cash retainers may be converted to Common Stock, and (ii) cash and stock-based compensation may be deferred pursuant to our non-employee director deferral plan. Deferred cash amounts are accrued in a bookkeeping account that is credited with notional interest based on the so-called General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade ("GATT") rate (4.66% for 2024 and 4.54% for 2025, and as determined using the
Additionally, the Company's charitable foundation provides matching contributions to gifts made by directors to qualified charities, up to
Director Compensation Table
The following table sets forth the total compensation of our non-employee directors for the 2024/2025 Annual Compensation Cycle. All amounts were paid in 2024.
|
Fees Earned in Cash ($) |
Stock Awards ($) (1) |
All Other Compensation ($) (2) |
Total ($) |
|||
|
115,076 |
149,924 |
- |
265,000 |
|||
|
116,076 |
149,924 |
- |
266,000 |
|||
|
120,076 |
149,924 |
- |
270,000 |
|||
|
141,076 |
149,924 |
- |
291,000 |
|||
J. Paul Condrin III |
130,076 |
149,924 |
5,000 |
285,000 |
|||
|
241,076 |
149,924 |
5,000 |
396,000 |
|||
|
115,076 |
149,924 |
(3) |
- |
265,000 |
||
|
126,076 |
149,924 |
5,000 |
281,000 |
|||
|
120,076 |
(4) |
149,924 |
(4) |
- |
270,000 |
Board's Role in Risk Oversight
The Board is responsible for overseeing the Company's risk management program. The Company, being primarily in the business of risk, has established an enterprise-wide risk management ("ERM") group to monitor, assess, manage and mitigate material risks to the Company. The Board, directly or through its standing committees, regularly receives reports and presentations from key members of the ERM group and management, including from the Company's CEO, Chief Financial Officer,
Board of Directors |
|||||
Audit Committee •
Regularly reviews with management certain financial and business risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control such risk exposures.
•
Reviews the Company's enterprise risk assessment and risk management policies and procedures.
•
Receives periodic reports from the Company's
•
Reports to the Board its assessment of the Company's ERM policies and procedures.
•
Reviews related person transactions, political contributions and certain sustainability matters, including material environmental risks.
•
Monitors cybersecurity and privacy risks, and the Company's cybersecurity programs, with periodic updates from the Chief Information Security Officer.
|
CHCC •
Receives, at least annually, results of an assessment of the risks associated with the Company's compensation programs, as presented by a committee led by the Chief Risk Officer (and shared with the full Board). For additional information, see "Risk Management and Compensation" in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis section below.
•
Reviews the Company's strategies and policies related to certain human capital management matters, including corporate culture, employee engagement and initiatives and programs regarding inclusion and diversity.
|
NCGC •
Reviews the Company's compliance program for its Code of Conduct, conflicts of interest, ethics and trading in Company stock.
•
Monitors matters pertaining to Board governance and shareholder rights.
•
Monitors certain risks related to the Company's sustainability initiatives and disclosures.
|
Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility
Our long-term strategy is focused on meeting our commitments to our policyholders and agents, with a view toward delivering outstanding financial results for our shareholders. We recognize that working to make a difference in the world and in the communities where we do business furthers that strategy. Our strong values and good corporate citizenship are essential to our success, and we are committed to carefully considering and incorporating sustainability efforts into our operational and strategic planning.
Oversight of these key sustainability matters is codified in Board committee charters. In addition, management presentations and reports on these topics are formally scheduled on Board or committee topical calendars and agendas, and they are regularly discussed in Board and committee meetings, as applicable, throughout the year.
Our executive leadership team, managers and business units are responsible for setting sustainability direction and strategy through their programs and policies. The Company's
For more information about our commitments to sustainability and to review our Sustainability Report, please visit our Corporate Responsibility website,www.hanover.com, under "About The Hanover-Our corporate commitment." Information on our website is not a part of or incorporated into this Proxy Statement.
To successfully operate our business, we rely on our corporate culture and on attracting, developing and retaining qualified employees to differentiate our Company and deliver on our commitments to our independent agents, customers, investors and other stakeholders. With the support and oversight of the Board and each committee, as applicable, we focus on creating an engaging and inclusive environment for our workforce that aligns with our corporate culture and "CARE" values to promote employee development. For a more complete discussion of our commitment and focus on human capital management, refer to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
Director Retirement Policy
It is the policy of the Board that a director retire effective at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders following his or her attainment of age 75. The policy does not provide for any waivers or exceptions.
Code of Conduct
The Company has adopted a Code of Conduct that is applicable to all directors, officers and employees of the Company, including our CEO, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Controller. In addition, we expect our agents, contractors and others with whom we do business to act in accordance with our Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct is available on the Company's website,www.hanover.com, under "About The Hanover-Our governance-Company policies-Code of conduct policy." For a printed copy of the Code of Conduct, shareholders should contact the Company's Corporate Secretary. The Company will disclose any amendments to the Code of Conduct (other than technical, administrative or non-substantive amendments), or waivers of provisions of the Code of Conduct for its directors and executive officers, including the CEO, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Controller, on its website within four business days following the date of such amendment or waiver.
Insider Trading Policy
The Company has adopted an Insider Trading Policy which governs the purchase, sale and/or other dispositions of our securities by the Company and our directors, executive officers and employees, that we believe is reasonably designed to promote compliance with insider trading laws, rules and regulations, and the exchange listing standards applicable to us. Copies of the Insider Trading Policy and Addendum to Insider Trading Policy have been filed as Exhibit 19.1 and Exhibit 19.2, respectively, to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
Shareholder Engagement
In addition to regular discussions with investors and analysts, the Company engages in investor outreach throughout the year as an avenue to pursue a direct dialogue with interested shareholders to leamore about their perspectives, priorities and concerns. Engagement discussions with investors have traditionally included senior management and representatives from our investor relations department. A broad range of topics are discussed, including business performance and strategy, human capital management, governance, compensation programs and sustainability matters. Formal and informal communications with investors enable management and the Board to understand and consider the issues that matter most to our shareholders, so that the Company can effectively address them. Last year, after noting certain investor feedback and conducting a comprehensive review of our governance structure, the Company sought and received shareholder approval to declassify the Board's structure in 2024. Accordingly, we amended and restated our Charter and By-laws in
In
ITEMI
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
The Board currently has 10 members and consists of three classes whose terms end in successive years. At the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, our shareholders approved an amendment to our Charter to declassify the Board so that directors are elected for a one-year term beginning at the 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. The amendment did not change the unexpired three-year terms of directors elected prior to the effectiveness of the amendment, including the directors elected at the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
There are five nominees for election to the Board this year. Messrs. Bradicich, Bunting, Donnell, Ramrath and Roche are each being nominated to serve for a one-year term expiring at the next annual meeting. The Board has voted to increase the size of the Board to 11 members, concurrent with the election of
Directors serve until the expiration of their stated term and until their successor has been duly elected and qualified, or until their earlier death, resignation, removal or disqualification.
All of the nominees have indicated their willingness to serve and, unless otherwise directed, it is intended that proxies received in response to this solicitation will be voted in favor of the election of each of the nominees.
The affirmative vote of a majority of the votes properly cast (in person or by proxy) is required to elect director nominees. For purposes of electing directors, a majority of the votes cast means that the number of shares voted "for" a director must exceed the number of votes cast "against" that director. Broker non-votes and abstentions, because they are not votes cast, are not counted for this Item I and will have no effect on the outcome.
If a nominee who is currently serving as a director is not re-elected at the Annual Meeting, then, under
In the event that any of the nominees should be unavailable to serve as a director, it is intended that the proxies will be voted for the election of such substitute nominees, if any, as shall be designated by the Board. The Board and management have no reason to believe that any of the nominees will be unavailable to serve.
Information as to each nominee and as to directors continuing in office can be found under the section of this Proxy Statement entitled "Corporate Governance."
The Board recommends a vote FOR each of the director nominees. |
The Board recommends a vote FOR each of the director nominees.
ITEMII
ADVISORY APPROVAL OF THE COMPANY'S EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Each year since our annual meeting in 2011, we have provided our shareholders with the opportunity to cast an advisory vote regarding the compensation of our named executive officers. At each meeting, our shareholders overwhelmingly approved the proposal, with more than 95% of the votes cast voting in favor of each proposal. As required by Section 14A of the Exchange Act, we are again seeking advisory shareholder approval of the compensation of our named executive officers, as disclosed in the section of this Proxy Statement entitled "Executive Compensation." Shareholders are being asked to vote on the following:
Vote: |
To approve the compensation of the Company's named executive officers, as disclosed pursuant to the compensation disclosure rules of the |
A substantial percentage of our named executive officers' compensation is directly tied to stock performance and the attainment of financial and other performance measures the Board believes promote long-term shareholder value and position us for long-term success. As described more fully in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis, the mix of fixed and performance-based compensation, the terms of our short- and long-term incentive compensation programs, and the weighting of variable compensation more heavily toward equity awards, are all designed to enable us to attract and retain top talent and align the interests of our executive officers with those of our shareholders, while balancing risk and reward. The CHCC and the Board believe the design of the programs, and the compensation awarded to the named executive officers under the current programs, fulfills these objectives.
Shareholders are urged to read the Compensation Discussion and Analysis section beginning on page27, which discusses in detail how our compensation programs support our compensation philosophy.
Although the vote is non-binding, the Board and the CHCC will consider the voting results in connection with their ongoing evaluation of the Company's compensation programs. As recommended by our shareholders at our annual meeting in 2023, we intend to hold advisory votes on executive compensation annually. Accordingly, we anticipate the next such vote will be held at the Company's 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
The affirmative vote of a majority of the votes properly cast (in person or by proxy) is required for approval of this Item II. Abstentions and broker non-votes, because they are not votes cast, are not counted for this Item II and will have no effect on the outcome.
The Board recommends a vote FOR the approval of this Item II. |
The Board recommends a vote FOR the approval of this proposal.
The Board recommends a vote FOR an advisory vote on executive compensation every ONE year.
ITEMIII
RATIFICATION OF INDEPENDENT, REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Audit Committee is directly responsible for the appointment, compensation, retention and oversight of the independent, external audit firm retained to audit the Company's financial statements. The firm of PwC has been appointed by the Audit Committee of the Board to serve as the Company's independent, registered public accounting firm for 2025. PwC has been retained as the Company's independent, external auditor since 1995 and, for a predecessor company, beginning in 1991.Representatives of PwC will be present at the Annual Meeting, will have the opportunity to make a statement if they desire to do so, and will be available to respond to appropriate questions from shareholders.
In order to assure continuing auditor independence, the Audit Committee periodically considers whether the Company should change its independent, external audit firm. Additionally, in conjunction with the mandated rotation of PwC's lead engagement partner, the Audit Committee and its Chair are directly involved in the selection of PwC's new lead engagement partner.
The members of the Audit Committee and the Board believe the continued retention of PwC to serve as the Company's independent, external auditor is in the best interests of the Company and its investors. For a discussion of the factors that the Audit Committee considered in retaining PwC for 2025, see the "Audit Committee" section on page15. The Board is submitting the appointment of PwC as the Company's independent, registered public accounting firm for 2025 to the shareholders for their ratification. The Audit Committee bears the ultimate responsibility for selecting the firm and will make the selection it deems best for the Company and its shareholders. Should the shareholders fail to ratify the appointment of PwC, the Audit Committee will reconsider the appointment and may retain PwC or another accounting firm without resubmitting the matter to shareholders. Similarly, ratification of the selection of PwC as the independent, registered public accounting firm does not limit the Audit Committee's ability to change this selection in the future.
The affirmative vote of a majority of the votes properly cast (in person or by proxy) is required for approval of this Item III. Abstentions, because they are not votes cast, are not counted for this Item III and will have no effect on the outcome.
The Board recommends a vote FOR the approval of this Item III. |
Fees Incurred from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
The table below shows the fees paid or accrued for the audit and other services provided by PwC for 2024 and 2023.
2024 |
2023 |
||||||
Audit Fees (1) |
$ |
3,049,223 |
$ |
3,010,983 |
|||
Audit-Related Fees (2) |
106,302 |
152,707 |
|||||
Tax Fees |
- |
- |
|||||
All Other Fees |
- |
- |
Fees and Pre-Approv
The Audit Committee is responsible for overseeing and approving the audit fee negotiations associated with the Company's retention of PwC. In addition, the Audit Committee is required to pre-approve all services performed by the independent auditor. At the beginning of each annual audit cycle, the Audit Committee pre-approves certain categories of audit, audit-related and other services, but such projects within these categories with fees expected to be
The Chair of the Audit Committee (or, in her absence, any other member of the Audit Committee) has the authority to pre-approve other audit-related and non-audit services to be performed by the independent auditors and associated fees, provided that such services are not otherwise prohibited and any decisions to pre-approve such services and fees are reported to the full Audit Committee at its next regular meeting. During 2024, the Audit Committee reviewed and pre-approved all services performed by the independent auditor, including non-audit services, in accordance with the policy set forth above. In assessing the independence of PwC, the Audit Committee reviews and considers aggregate fees and other factors for all audit-related and non-audit services compared to the overall audit fee.
Audit Committee Report
Review of Audited Financial Statements with Management
The Audit Committee reviewed and discussed with management the audited financial statements of the Company.
Review of Financial Statements and Other Matters with Independent Auditors
An integral part of the audit process is to ensure that the Audit Committee receives information regarding the scope and results of the audit. Various communication requirements pertaining to the conduct of an audit exist to enhance the information flow and to assist the Audit Committee in discharging its oversight responsibility. In this regard, the Audit Committee discussed with the Company's independent, registered public accounting firm,
Responsibility and Oversight
Management is responsible for the Company's financial statements, the overall reporting process and the system of internal control over financial reporting.
Recommendation that Financial Statements be Included in the Annual Report
Based on the reviews and discussions referred to above and relying thereon, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board that the audited financial statements be included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
Other Matters
The Audit Committee satisfied its responsibilities under its Charter for the year 2024. For additional information on the duties and responsibilities of the Audit Committee, see the sections of this Proxy Statement entitled "Related-Person Transactions" (page13), "Board Committees-Audit Committee" (page 15), "Board's Role in Risk Oversight" (page19), and the Audit Committee Charter, available on our website,www.hanover.com, under "About The Hanover-Our governance-Committee charters-Audit committee" or from our Corporate Secretary.
In accordance with the rules of the
AUDIT COMMITTEE
The Audit Committee Report shall not be deemed incorporated by reference by any general statement incorporating by reference this Proxy Statement into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that THG specifically incorporates this information by reference, and it shall not otherwise be deemed filed under such Acts.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Note Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures The discussion of our results in this CD&A includes a discussion of our operating income before interest expense and income taxes ("Pre-Tax Operating Income"), Pre-Tax Operating Income, excluding catastrophes ("Ex-Cat Operating Income"), and adjusted operating retuon average equity ("AdjustedOperating ROE"). Each of these financial measures is a non-GAAP financial measure. Definitions and, where required, reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP measure are contained inAppendix Ato this Proxy Statement, which is incorporated herein by reference. |
Compensation Discussionand Analysis ("CD&A")
2024 NEOs
NEO |
Title |
|
|
President and CEO |
|
|
EVP and CFO |
|
|
EVP and President, Hanover Agency Markets |
|
|
EVP and President, Specialty |
|
|
EVP and Chief Legal Officer |
|
Executive Summary and Overview
Fiscal 2024 Results
2024 Pay Decisions
During 2024, we maintained our commitment to "pay for performance," and continued to emphasize variable compensation over fixed pay, as indicated below:
Long-Term Incentive Plan - performance-based restricted stock unit ("PBRSU") payouts - 2022 relative total shareholder retuPBRSUs - Three-year total shareholder retuof 30.17% (assuming reinvestment of dividends) resulted in performance at the 23rd percentile as compared to a pre-identified set of peers, and exceeded our three-year compounded dividend yield of 7.74% for the 2022-2024 performance period. Accordingly, our relative total shareholder retuPBRSUs for the 2022-2024 performance period were earned at 25.0% of target Short-Term Incentive Plan - As described in "Short-Term Incentive Compensation" below, strong underlying performance and achievement of strategic objectives resulted in a funding level at 150% of target 2024 NEO Pay Mix 2022 retuon equity PBRSUs - Three-year average Adjusted Operating ROE was 11.5%, and accordingly, our retuon equity PBRSUs for the 2022-2024 performance period were earned at 125.0% of target Payout (125.0.0%) Threshold (50%) Target (100%) Maximum (150%) (0%) Threshold (25%) Payout (72.73%) Target (100%) Maximum (150%) (0%)
Note: "target compensation" as used in the graphics above means base salary, target short-term incentive compensation, and long-term equity awards measured at target value.
Our compensation decisions reflect, in part, the strong support our shareholders have expressed by approving our "say on pay" proposals. In each year since we began holding an annual "say on pay" vote, more than 95% of the shares cast on these proposals have been voted in favor of our executive pay programs and practices.
Relationship Between Pay and Performance
One of the primary objectives in the design and implementation of our executive compensation programs is to ensure that a meaningful relationship exists between the compensation earned by our executives and the overall success of our organization and shareholder value creation. This objective, however, is also weighed against other important considerations, such as the importance of rewarding individual achievement, recognizing the longer-term value of achieving strategic and operating objectives, innovating in a dynamic market, attracting and retaining key executives, maintaining stability in our organization, demonstrating leadership capabilities and promoting our "CARE" values (Collaboration,Accountability,Respect,Empowerment), which includes supporting our human capital initiatives and other sustainability objectives. As a result of these considerations, when making compensation decisions, the CHCC also considers events or circumstances that we have limited ability to manage, such as unusual weather-related losses and catastrophes, and other significant contributions and/or achievements of our executives. To achieve our compensation objectives, we design our executive compensation programs to include what we believe is an appropriate mix of fixed versus variable compensation elements.
Over the past three years, variable compensation opportunities (short-and long-term incentive target awards) have comprised approximately three-quarters of our NEOs' total target annual compensation opportunity, nearly two-thirds of which has been in the form of long-term equity awards tied to stock price performance. We believe tying such a large portion of our NEOs' total target compensation opportunity to variable compensation, while providing competitive levels of base salary, strikes an appropriate balance between fixed compensation and compensation that may fluctuate based on Company and individual performance, and has resulted in a meaningful relationship between both our short- and long-term performance and pay actually earned and realized by our NEOs.
While no standard definition of "pay for performance" has been universally adopted, we believe an examination of variable compensation earnings over the past three years, as set forth below, shows a meaningful connection between our overall performance and the amounts earned by our NEOs.
Despite continued inflationary pressures and increased casualty loss trends, as well as elevated weather-related catastrophe losses, we have demonstrated strong underlying performance over the past three years. During this period, our ordinary annual dividends paid per share increased 20%, and we returned approximately
Short-Term Incentive Compensation Awards - Results and Payouts
Year |
Performance Measure Targets |
Actual Results / Percent of Target |
Payout Relative to Target Award |
||
Pre-Tax Operating Income - |
|
||||
2022 |
Ex-Cat Operating Income - |
|
88.0% |
||
Pre-Established Strategic Priorities |
Achieved |
||||
Pre-Tax Operating Income - |
|
||||
2023 |
Ex-Cat Operating Income - |
|
95.0% |
||
Pre-Established Strategic Priorities |
Achieved / 105% |
||||
Pre-Tax Operating Income - |
|
||||
2024 |
Ex-Cat Operating Income - |
|
150.0% |
||
Pre-Established Strategic Priorities |
Achieved / 115% |
† Percentage payout as adjusted pursuant to the terms of the 2023 Short-Term Incentive Compensation Program.
Long-Term Incentive Compensation: PBRSUs (Relative Total Shareholder RetuPerformance Metric) with Performance Periods Ending in 2022, 2023 and 2024 - Results and Payouts
Year Ended |
Target (100%) |
3-Year Total Shareholder Return |
Relative Total Shareholder Return |
Payout |
||||
2022 |
Three-Year Relative Total |
9.40% |
43rdPercentile |
86.96% |
||||
2023 |
Shareholder Retuat |
14.84% |
36thPercentile |
72.73% |
||||
2024 |
the 50thPercentile |
30.17% |
23rdPercentile |
25.00% |
Long-Term Incentive Compensation: PBRSUs (Average Adjusted Operating ROE Performance Metric) with Performance Periods Ending in 2022, 2023 and 2024 - Results and Payouts
Year Ended |
Target (100%) |
3-Year Average Adjusted Operating ROE Achieved |
Payout |
||||
2022 |
Three-Year Average Adjusted Operating ROE Achieved at 9.50% to 10.50% |
12.0% |
130.0% |
||||
2023 |
Three-Year Average Adjusted Operating ROE Achieved at 9.50% to 10.50% |
11.1% |
112.0% |
||||
2024 |
Three-Year Average Adjusted Operating ROE Achieved at 10.0% |
11.5% |
125.0% |
Long-Term Compensation: Options Granted in 2022, 2023 and 2024
FY End 2022 |
FY End 2023 |
FY End 2024 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year of Option Award |
Option Exercise Price |
THG Closing Price |
Intrinsic Value† per Option |
THG Closing Price |
Intrinsic Value† per Option |
THG Closing Price |
Intrinsic Value† per Option |
|||||||||||||||||||
2022 |
$ |
139.51 |
$ |
135.13 |
$ |
- |
$ |
121.42 |
$ |
- |
$ |
154.66 |
$ |
15.15 |
||||||||||||
2023 |
$ |
140.01 |
N/A |
$ |
121.42 |
$ |
- |
$ |
154.66 |
$ |
14.65 |
|||||||||||||||
2024 |
$ |
134.26 |
N/A |
$ |
154.66 |
$ |
20.40 |
† Intrinsic Value is calculated as the difference between the applicable THG Closing Price and the Option Exercise Price.
In summary, our performance and, with respect to long-term incentive awards, our stock price, have a significant impact on compensation for our NEOs. The CHCC continues to granttargetcompensation at levels that it believes are appropriate under current circumstances, butactualcompensation is, and is expected to continue to be, highly dependent on our financial performance and stock price.
Compensation Best Practices
WHAT WE DO |
|
✓ |
Long-term incentive plan comprised exclusively of equity-based awards tied to stock price and that vest generally over a period of three years |
✓ |
Significant stock ownership guidelines for executive officers |
✓ |
Maintain a clawback policy that aligns with the |
✓ |
Robust clawback provisions in equity award agreements that provide for participants to retuvalue received upon vesting of time-based and performance-based RSUs and exercise of stock options in the event an executive breaches certain non-solicitation, non-interference or confidentiality provisions or otherwise violates our Code of Conduct |
✓ |
Double-trigger requirement for change in control benefits (other than for TBRSUs issued to "retirement eligible employees") |
✓ |
Independent compensation consultant |
✓ |
Regular review of compensation peer groups |
✓ |
Annual review of compensation plans, policies and practices |
✓ |
Every executive officer is subject to non-solicitation, non-interference and confidentiality agreements |
WHAT WE DON'T DO |
|
X |
No excessive perquisites for executive officers |
X |
No re-pricing of stock option grants |
X |
None of our executive officers are entitled to "280G tax gross-up" payments in connection with their change in control benefits |
X |
Executive officers and directors are prohibited from pledging any of their THG securities, and all officers, directors and employees are prohibited from hedging our securities |
X |
No uncapped payouts under our short- and long-term incentive plans for executives |
X |
No payment of dividend equivalents on equity awards until vesting |
Executive Compensation Policy and Objectives
The overall objectives of our executive compensation programs are to:
Each component of compensation is intended to achieve particular objectives, and the entire compensation package is designed to align with our business strategy and be reasonably competitive in the marketplace. Although we do not have a policy for a fixed allocation between either cash and non-cash or short-term and long-term incentive compensation, we design our NEO compensation packages with greater emphasis on variable compensation tied to performance rather than base salary, and a significant portion of total target compensation is in the form of long-term, equity-based awards, which are subject to multi-year vesting requirements and the value of which is dependent on our stock performance. This approach is intended to balance short- and long-term performance goals and promote shareholder value.
Setting Executive Compensation
Use of
In evaluating our executive compensation programs for 2024, the CHCC was advised by its independent compensation consultant,
it deemed appropriate, including all such factors required by the NYSE listing standards, and believes that CAP is independent from the Company and its management. CAP was not engaged by the Company for any other purpose, and the CHCC reviewed all compensation payable to this firm.
During 2024, a representative of CAP:
Additionally, for 2024, CAP reviewed and provided comments regarding the executive compensation disclosure in the 2024 Proxy Statement and provided input to the CHCC and to management regarding the selection of peer companies against which to evaluate executive compensation levels and practices.
CAP provided information as to compensation levels for comparable positions at other companies that compete with us for executive talent and business. For 2024, this data was prepared based upon the publicly disclosed proxy statements of the group of property and casualty insurance companies listed below (the"Comparative Proxy Data" and, such companies, the "Comparative Proxy Data Companies") and market pay data collected from the 2023
Comparative Proxy Data Companies
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The CHCC reviews the Comparative Proxy Data and the Comparative Market Data, including information on base salary levels, target and actual total cash levels, long-term incentive payouts and target opportunities, and target and actual total compensation levels, as well as comparative financial metrics, such as direct premiums written, market capitalization, and net income. While the CHCC believes the Comparative Proxy Data and the Comparative Market Data are useful, such data is intended solely as one of several reference points to assist the CHCC in its compensation discussions and deliberations. Accordingly, rather than relying on or setting benchmarks solely against such data for purposes of evaluating the executive compensation amounts that we pay or award, the CHCC also relies on the general knowledge, experience, and judgment of its members, both with regard to competitive compensation levels and the relative success that we have achieved in recruiting and retaining personnel.
Role of Executive Officers in Compensation Decisions and CEO Performance Review
CHCC meetings are regularly attended by our CEO, Chief Legal Officer and Chief Human Resources Officer, as well as representatives of its independent compensation consultant, CAP. Each individual generally participates in these meetings and provides counsel and advice at the CHCC's request. Other independent directors and members of management also attend meetings from time to time. In addition, the CHCC regularly meets in executive session without members of management present. An executive is not permitted to be present while the CHCC conducts its deliberations on that executive's compensation.
Following a process that was established by the
CID. Results of this review process help form the basis for establishing the CEO's annual compensation package. The CID has final authority to approve the compensation of our CEO.
For compensation decisions regarding NEOs (other than the CEO), the CHCC primarily considers the recommendations of our CEO, its own observations regarding each executive, as well as the Comparative Proxy Data and Comparative Market Data provided by its independent compensation consultant.
Principal Components of 2024 Executive Compensation
2023 2024 2025 2026 Options have a 10- year term (2033) Base Salary paid bi-weekly throughout 2023 Short-Term Incentive - based on 2023 Company and individual performance. Lump sum paid in
Annual Base Salary
Annual base salary is designed to provide a fixed level of compensation to our NEOs depending on their roles, skills, qualifications, and competitive pay levels (based upon the Comparative Proxy Data and Comparative Market Data), as well as to attract and retain employees. Base salary, however, is only one of several different components of an executive's total compensation package and makes up a significantly smaller portion of total target compensation than the combined short- and long-term incentive opportunities described below.
2024 Base Salary Rate
NEO |
2024 Base Salary Rate ($) |
% Change* |
||
|
1,100,000 |
0.0 |
||
|
785,000 |
2.6 |
||
|
700,000 |
3.7 |
||
|
645,000 |
3.2 |
||
|
593,000 |
5.0 |
* Percentage change measured against base salary rate in effect as of the end of 2023. Adjustments effective
The annual base salary adjustment for each of Messrs. Farber, Lavey, Salvatore and Kerrigan was approved by the CHCC after taking into consideration each NEO's performance, expertise, experience, breadth of responsibilities, and a review of Comparative Proxy Data and Comparative Market Data.
Short-Term Incentive Compensation
Our short-term incentive compensation program (the "STIP") provides annual, performance-based cash compensation opportunities for our NEOs. Opportunities are targeted at a percentage of annual base salary, depending on each executive's role, competitive pay levels (based upon the Comparative Proxy Data and Comparative Market Data) and overall pay package. Actual
payouts under the program's terms could range from 0% to approximately 195% of the target award based upon Company and individual performance, as discussed below.
Specifically, our short-term incentive compensation program is designed to motivate and reward:
2024 Short-Term Incentive Compensation Target Awards
NEO |
Target Award as a % of Base Salary Rate |
||
|
200% |
||
|
130% |
||
|
120% |
||
|
120% |
||
|
80% |
In 2024, the target award was increased (i) from 185% to 200% of base salary for
The CHCC retains discretion to determine the individual bonus amount to be paid to each NEO. In determining these amounts for 2024, the CHCC primarily considered (i) the funding level achieved under the STIP and (ii) each NEO's individual performance. Each consideration is further described below.
The funding level achieved under the STIP.The STIP is a performance-based bonus program that provides incentive cash compensation opportunities to approximately one-half of our workforce, including our NEOs and other executive officers. For 2024, potential funding under the STIP ranged from 0% to a maximum of approximately 195% of target based on the following three pre-established performance metrics: (i) Pre-Tax Operating Income (20% weighting); (ii) Ex-Cat Operating Income (50% weighting); and (iii) the strategic objectives discussed below (30% weighting). The CHCC chose this combination of metrics because it reflects the primary way that the Board evaluates our financial and operating performance. Achievement of these performance metrics is expected to enhance our stock value and shareholder returns in both the short- and long-term.
Actual funding is not intended to be formulaically obtained by strict application of these items, and the CHCC retains the discretion to increase or decrease the funding pool and individual awards based upon factors it deems appropriate and in the best interests of the Company. Set forth below are the Pre-Tax Operating Income and Ex-Cat Operating Income levels required to obtain threshold, target and maximum funding levels for the STIP for 2024:
Funding Level |
Pre-Tax Operating Income (in millions) |
Ex-Cat Operating Income (in millions) |
|
Threshold (25% and 50% funding, respectively) |
|
|
|
Target (100% funding) |
|
|
|
Maximum (175% and 200% funding, respectively) |
|
|
The level of Pre-Tax Operating Income required to achieve target funding level remained the same as the 2023 target and was above actual performance in 2023 for such metric. The level of Ex-Cat Operating Income required to achieve target funding level was increased by
During 2024, Pre-Tax Operating Income was
In addition to the financial metrics discussed above, for 2024, the following strategic objectives (which may fund at 0% to 200% of target) were considered:
Strategic Objectives |
Measures of Achievement |
Quality of Earnings |
•
Significantly exceeded full year Pre-Tax Operating Income target
•
Strengthened reserve position and reinsurance coverage
•
Maintained high quality, well-laddered and diversified investment portfolio
|
Profitability Improvement |
•
Significantly exceeded Pre-Tax Operating Income and Ex-Cat Operating Income targets
•
Significant advances in margin recapture and catastrophe mitigation plans
•
Improved capital position and resumed share repurchases during the fourth quarter of 2024
•
Tactically repositioned portions of our investment portfolio to capture higher investment yields while maintaining portfolio quality
|
Portfolio Growth |
•
Despite taking significant underwriting actions designed to recapture margin and mitigate catastrophe exposure, achieved net written premium growth of 4.7%, exceeding plan, and reflecting net written premium growth of 6.2% in Specialty, 4.3% in Personal Lines and 4.2% in Core Commercial
|
Relative Performance |
•
Retuon equity above average of Comparative Proxy Data Companies
•
Navigated the casualty trend environment better than most peers by effective geographic and industry risk selection
•
Leader in the independent agency channel in addressing home deductibles and needed rate increases
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Optimize Organization Effectiveness |
•
Delivered approximately 70 enhancements to our underwriting and quoting platform for certain Specialty businesses to drive efficiencies and better user experience
•
Delivered enhancements to claims system to improve user, customer and agent experience
•
Continued to expand Core Commercial quoting capabilities and implemented agent facing endorsements for TAP sales
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Introduced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities company-wide, supported by training, engagement and communication
|
|
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Launched pilot for mid-level leader coaching solution aimed at accelerating personalized development
•
Received overall favorable employee engagement "pulse" survey results
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Continued commitment and progress against inclusion and diversity measures
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After reviewing the Company's overall financial performance during 2024 (measured in part by our Pre-Tax and Ex-Cat Operating Income results), the significant progress achieved with respect to the strategic objectives described above (which the CHCC certified at 115% of target), and other factors, such as the high level of achievement of these pre-set goals and the need to retain key employees in a very competitive labor market, the CHCC determined to fund the STIP at 150% of target. While a metric weighted calculation would have produced funding at approximately 163% of target, the CHCC took into consideration growth of net written premiums, the expense impact and payouts under the STIP in recent years and determined to reduce the funding to 150% of target. This funding level was the primary reference point for determining individual NEO awards because the CHCC intends that the percentage of each NEO's award that is paid be comparable, generally, to the percentage funded to all participants under the STIP.
NEO individual performance. The CHCC also evaluates each NEO's overall performance within his area of responsibility when determining the annual bonus payout level for that executive. Set forth below are various contributions and accomplishments considered by the CHCC in its evaluation of the overall individual performance of our NEOs.
The 2024 STIP awards were as follows:
NEO |
Award ($) |
|
3,300,000 |
|
1,530,750 |
|
1,245,500 |
|
1,175,500 |
|
711,600 |
Long-Term Incentive Compensation
Our long-term incentives are designed to:
Factors considered in determining our NEOs' award opportunities under the long-term incentive program include:
As a condition to each long-term incentive compensation award, each recipient must agree to non-solicitation, non-interference, and confidentiality provisions.
2024 Long-Term Awards
The 2024 long-term awards for our NEOs were comprised of a combination of (i) performance-based (relative total shareholder return) restricted stock units ("RTSR PBRSUs"); (ii) performance-based (retuon equity) restricted stock units ("ROEPBRSUs"); (iii) time-based restricted stock units ("TBRSUs"); and (iv) stock options. Each component represented approximately 25% of the total value of the award opportunity based upon its grant date fair value (assuming target performance for the PBRSUs). The mix of awards for our NEOs was intended to provide a balanced portfolio of equity awards and was chosen to tie the realized value of an award to long-term stock appreciation, while encouraging retention and the achievement of absolute or relative performance goals. Long-term awards serve to align management's financial incentives with longer-term, sustained growth in our stock price, and are subject to multi-year vesting periods to encourage both retention and a longer-term stake in the well-being and prosperity of all of our stakeholders.
In 2024, the value (based on the award's grant date fair value) of the awards for each of our NEOs was increased to recognize the NEO's performance, increased experience and contributions to the long-term success of the Company, and to reflect competitive pay levels after a review of Comparative Proxy Data and Comparative Market Data.
2024 Long-Term Awards (Number of Shares Underlying Awards)*
NEO |
RTSR PBRSUs (target) |
ROE PBRSUs (target) |
TBRSUs |
Stock Options |
% Increase† |
|||||
|
9,311 |
9,311 |
9,311 |
41,437 |
8.8% |
|||||
|
3,445 |
3,445 |
3,445 |
15,332 |
5.8% |
|||||
|
2,049 |
2,049 |
2,049 |
9,117 |
10.1% |
|||||
|
1,863 |
1,863 |
1,863 |
8,288 |
11.2% |
|||||
|
1,211 |
1,211 |
1,211 |
5,387 |
8.4% |
* |
Reflects initial issuance of restricted stock units and is not adjusted for subsequent accrual of dividend equivalents under the terms of these awards (see "Dividend Equivalents" below). |
† |
Represents the percentage increase of the aggregate grant date fair value of the awards compared to the values granted in 2023. |
Description of RTSR PBRSUs
The RTSR PBRSUs:
The table below sets forth the level of RTSR required to achieve various payouts under the program:
RTSR |
Percentage of Target Award Achieved† |
≥75.0th %tile |
150% |
50.0th %tile |
100% |
25.0th %tile |
50% |
<25.0th %tile |
0% |
† |
In the event that our total shareholder retuis negative for the three-year period, payout is capped at 100% of the target award even if our RTSR is above the 50th percentile. If RTSR falls below the 25th percentile, but our total shareholder retuexceeds our three-year compounded dividend yield during the period, payout will equal 25% of target. |
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We chose the 22 companies listed above because we believe these companies are most representative of the companies against which we compete for capital/business. This list is the same as the one used for the 2023 RTSR PBRSUs, excluding
The CHCC chose RTSR as the performance metric to further align our NEOs' interests with those of our shareholders, to encourage a focus on long-term share price performance and to include a metric that explicitly measures our performance against other public companies in our industry.
Description of ROE PBRSUs
The ROE PBRSUs:
The table below sets forth the level of average Adjusted Operating ROE required to achieve various payouts under the program:
Average Adjusted Operating ROE (2024-2026) (%) |
Percentage of Target Award Achieved |
≥13.0 |
150% |
10.0 |
100% |
6.0 |
50% |
<6.0 |
0% |
Adjusted Operating ROE is operating retuon average equity (seeAppendix Afor additional information) adjusted to exclude:
The foregoing adjustments are designed to mitigate the impact (positive or negative) to operating income, net of interest expense and income taxes, (i) related to catastrophe losses significantly in excess of or below planned levels, and (ii) of events and strategic decisions that generally occurred prior to the tenure of our current executive leadership team. The CHCC modified the cat-collar from 3.3%-6.3% to 5.4%-8.0% for 2024 in recognition of weather severity trends.
The CHCC chose the Adjusted Operating ROE metric because it believes it is an appropriate measure for evaluating operating performance within our industry and is consistent with our strategic goals and philosophy. Accordingly, the CHCC believes the achievement of the Adjusted Operating ROE targets should increase shareholder return.
Description of TBRSUs
The TBRSUs will vest on the third anniversary of the grant date and convert into an equivalent number of shares of Common Stock, in each case, generally subject to the executive remaining employed by the Company through the vesting date. The purpose of the awards is to encourage executive retention and reinforce shareholder alignment.
Dividend Equivalents
To the extent a cash dividend is paid with respect to our outstanding Common Stock prior to the vesting date for the applicable award, holders of PBRSUs and TBRSUs accrue dividend equivalents in the form of additional PBRSUs or TBRSUs, as applicable. Such additional accrued restricted stock units vest only to the extent the underlying award vests in accordance with its terms.
Description of Stock Options
The exercise price for all stock option awards is the closing price of our Common Stock on the NYSE on the date of grant. Each stock option has a ten-year term and, provided the NEO remains employed by us through the applicable vesting dates, vests as to one-third of the underlying shares on each of the first three anniversaries of the grant date. Stock options directly align a portion of total compensation with our stock performance since they become valuable only if and to the extent the NEO vests in the awardandour share price increases over the period of time measured from the date of grant. Additionally, because stock options do not fully vest for three years, they encourage executive retention.
Long-Term Incentive Award Pay-Outs in 2024 for Awards Granted in
During 2024, RTSR and ROE PBRSUs granted in 2021 (earned at 72.73% and 112.0% of target, respectively, based on the achievement of the applicable three-year (2021-2023) RTSR performance goal at the 36th percentile and the achievement of a three-year (2021-2023) average Adjusted Operating ROE at 11.1%), and the TBRSUs granted in 2021 vested. In addition, one-third of the stock options granted in each of 2022 and 2023, vested, and the final one-third of the stock options granted in 2021 vested.
Also during 2024, because
In the first quarter of 2025, the RTSR and ROE PBRSUs granted in 2022 (earned at 25.0% and 125.0% of target, respectively, based on the applicable three-year (2022-2024) RTSR performance at the 23rd percentile and our total shareholder retuof 30.17% exceeding our three-year compounded dividend yield of 7.74%, and the three-year (2022-2024) average Adjusted Operating ROE at 11.5%) vested. In addition, the TBRSUs granted in 2022 vested, and one-third of the stock options granted in each of 2023 and 2024, vested, and the final one-third of the stock options granted in 2022 vested.
Other Compensation and Benefits
Our NEOs are eligible to participate in all of our employee benefit plans, such as medical, dental, group life, disability and accidental death and dismemberment insurance, our tax-qualified retirement plans, and our employee stock purchase plan, in each case on the same basis as other employees. In addition, certain of our senior employees, including the NEOs, participate in the following programs:
Non-Qualified Retirement Savings Plan
Our Non-Qualified Retirement Savings Plan provides additional Company contributions comparable to the benefits that are available to employees generally under our 401(k) Plan (see page52for additional information), but without regard to the maximum contribution limits under federal tax laws. For the 2024 plan year, the plan provided eligible employees, including each of our NEOs, a 6% employer contribution on total eligible compensation (salary and actual annual short-term incentive compensation, up to target) in excess of Internal Revenue Code limits. Such contributions are deferred and credited with interest based on the GATT rate. The amount of total compensation eligible for an employer contribution cannot, however, exceed
We adopted this plan so that all employees will be entitled to employer contributions equal to the same percentage of total eligible compensation, without regard to the limits under the Internal Revenue Code applicable to the 401(k) Plan (subject to the limitations described in the paragraph above), and to be consistent with common market practices. This plan applies equally to all employees who have eligible compensation in excess of federal limits. The plan does not currently provide for additional employee contributions.
Though the annual employer contributions to the Non-Qualified Retirement Savings Plan were made during the first quarter of 2025, since such contributions were made with respect to compensation paid in 2024, the Summary Compensation Table (see page46) and Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation in 2024 Table (see page52) reflect such 2025 contributions as 2024 compensation amounts. Such amounts are similarly included with respect to prior years.
Perquisites
The CHCC reviews, at least annually, the corporate perquisites made available to our NEOs. The CHCC believes corporate perquisites should represent a relatively small component of an NEO's total compensation package. In 2024, consistent with prior years, perquisites offered to our NEOs, generally, were comprised of (i) financial planning services, (ii) matching contributions (up to
We provide financial planning services to each of our NEOs to minimize distractions and help ensure appropriate focus on Company responsibilities. The cost for such services is treated as taxable income to the participating executives.
Our matching charitable contributions program is designed to encourage participation in charitable organizations and is consistent with our general philosophy of good corporate citizenship. Our executives and other Company officers and employees are also encouraged to actively participate on boards of directors or in other capacities with local non-profit organizations.
Upon conducting a review of industry standards and our competitors' practices, the CHCC determined that offering executive physicals would mitigate business disruption and risk due to preventable health incidents of our senior level executives, particularly as a mid-size organization where depth of succession may be more limited.
In
For more information regarding perquisites, please see Note 3 to the Summary Compensation Table beginning on page46.
Amended and Restated Employment Continuity Plan ("CIC Plan")
The purposes of the CIC Plan are to:
Additionally, the CIC Plan is designed to protect us and our shareholders, who might be affected adversely if management were to be distracted, or were to depart, in the event a change in control transaction were to be rumored or considered. The CIC Plan provides benefits, including cash payments and continuation of health and other benefits, in the event of a termination of employment following a change in control. These benefits are intended to reinforce and encourage the continued attention and commitment of executives under potentially disruptive business circumstances.
The CHCC determines eligibility for, and the level of participation in, the CIC Plan based on the roles, responsibilities and individual circumstances of each executive officer and is made independent of other compensation considerations. In assessing participation, the CHCC considers, among other things, the critical nature of the individual's role to the business and the importance of retaining the individual. The CIC Plan requires a double-trigger (a change in controlanda termination of employment without cause or resignation for good reason) before benefits are payable, and none of our executive officers is eligible for a tax gross-up related to the special excise tax that may be imposed on such payments.
Severance Arrangements
Each of our executive officers, including our NEOs, is party to a severance arrangement, the material terms and conditions of which are summarized below.
The CHCC elected to provide these benefits after considering competitive trends in severance-related benefits or, in the case of Messrs. Farber and Kerrigan, in connection with recruiting them to join the Company.
For additional information about our CIC Plan and the various benefits available to our NEOs in the event of termination of employment or a change in control, please see the section entitled "Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control" beginning on page53.
Risk Management and Compensation
The CHCC endeavors to ensure that our employee compensation programs and practices balance risk and reward, both on an individual and Company-wide basis. To that end, each year a committee led by our
The report issued by our
In addition to the various factors mitigating risk discussed above, each compensation program is developed in the context of our overall financial plan. The detailed financial plan, which includes our short- and long-term financial goals and operating priorities, is reviewed and approved by the full Board. Accordingly, the Board is provided the opportunity to make its own assessment of the risks presented by the financial plan and to require that management implement appropriate changes to ensure that we are not taking imprudent risks that may have a material adverse impact on financial performance.
Based on these factors and the analysis presented by management, the CHCC determined that our compensation programs and practices for our executive officers and all other employees do not give rise to risks that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company.
Equity Grant Policies and Practices
We do not have any formal programs, plans or practices with respect to the timing of our equity award grants in coordination with the release of material, non-public information.Most of our equity awards, including stock options, are made annually during the first quarter at the time the CHCC makes its annual executive compensation decisions. The date of this meeting is usually set well in advance and is not chosen to coincide with the release of material, non-public information.The exercise price of all options equals the closing price per share of our Common Stock, as reported on the NYSE on the date of grant.
Equity awards made to executive officers, including each of our NEOs, must be specifically approved by the CHCC, subject, with respect to the CEO, to approval by the CID. For annual equity awards made to other employees, the CHCC approves an aggregate number and type of award available for issuance.These awards are then distributed as determined by our CEO based on recommendations from other members of management.
Off-cycle awards are generally made only in connection with new hires, promotions, or as needed to retain or reward an employee and must be approved by the CHCC for any executive officer. None of our NEOs received an off-cycle award during 2024.
Stock Ownership Guidelines and Policies Against Hedging or Pledging Shares
In order to further align the interests of our NEOs with those of our shareholders and to encourage such executive officers to operate in the best long-term interests of the Company, each NEO is subject to the stock ownership guidelines set forth on page2. As of the date of this Proxy Statement, each of our NEOs is in compliance with such guidelines.
Pursuant to our Insider Trading Policy, executives and directors are prohibited from pledging any of their THG securities, and all officers, directors and employees are strictly prohibited from entering into any transaction to hedge their economic exposure to ownership of, or interests in, our securities.
Clawback Policy
The Company maintains a clawback policy pursuant to which the Company must, when applicable, seek to recover incentive-based compensation from executive officers in the event the Company is required to prepare an accounting restatement due to material noncompliance of the Company with any financial reporting requirement under the securities laws. The policy shall be interpreted and administered in a manner consistent with all applicable laws and regulations, including, without limitation, Section 303A.14 of the NYSE Listed Company Manual and Rule 10D-1 of the Exchange Act.
In addition to the NYSE-compliant clawback policy, we also maintain recoupment provisions within our equity award agreements. The terms of our equity award agreements provide for all participants, including all executive officers, to retuthe value received upon vesting of time-based and performance-based RSUs and the exercise of stock options in the event the participant breaches certain non-solicitation, non-interference or confidentiality provisions or otherwise violates our Code of Conduct, which includes improper behavior.
Tax Implications
Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code generally disallows a tax deduction to public companies for taxable compensation over
Compensation Committee Report
Review of Compensation Discussion and Analysis with Management
Recommendation that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be Included in the 2025 Proxy Statement
Based on the review and discussion referred to above, the
In accordance with the rules of the
COMPENSATION AND HUMAN CAPITAL COMMITTEE
J. Paul Condrin III, Chair
The Compensation Committee Report shall not be deemed incorporated by reference by any general statement incorporating by reference this Proxy Statement into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that THG specifically incorporates this information by reference, and it shall not otherwise be deemed filed under such Acts.
Summary Compensation Table
The following table sets forth the total compensation for our NEOs for 2024, 2023 and 2022.
|
Year |
Salary ($) |
Stock Awards ($) (1)(2) |
Option Awards ($) (1) |
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($) |
All Other Compensation ($) (3) |
Total ($) |
|
2024 |
1,100,000 |
3,755,592 |
1,250,025 |
3,300,000 |
144,979 |
9,550,596 |
President and CEO |
2023 |
1,100,000 |
3,450,128 |
1,150,005 |
1,933,250 |
87,746 |
7,721,129 |
2022 |
1,083,846 |
2,970,256 |
990,010 |
1,694,000 |
87,911 |
6,826,023 |
|
|
2024 |
780,385 |
1,389,541 |
462,525 |
1,530,750 |
83,533 |
4,246,734 |
EVP and CFO |
2023 |
758,077 |
1,312,684 |
437,510 |
908,438 |
82,500 |
3,499,209 |
2022 |
731,539 |
1,237,685 |
412,511 |
776,160 |
81,140 |
3,239,035 |
|
|
2024 |
694,231 |
826,465 |
275,030 |
1,245,500 |
75,465 |
3,116,691 |
EVP and President, Hanover Agency Markets |
2023 |
669,231 |
750,144 |
250,023 |
683,100 |
70,178 |
2,422,676 |
2022 |
644,231 |
675,099 |
225,006 |
560,500 |
69,646 |
2,174,482 |
|
|
2024 |
640,385 |
751,440 |
250,030 |
1,175,500 |
61,925 |
2,879,280 |
EVP and President, Specialty |
2023 |
619,231 |
675,384 |
225,037 |
687,500 |
65,406 |
2,272,558 |
2022 |
594,231 |
600,234 |
200,006 |
544,000 |
60,000 |
1,998,471 |
|
|
2024 |
586,538 |
488,457 |
162,517 |
711,600 |
82,591 |
2,031,703 |
EVP and Chief Legal Officer |
2023 |
560,385 |
450,257 |
150,009 |
402,563 |
74,615 |
1,637,829 |
2022 |
540,385 |
412,706 |
137,504 |
359,700 |
74,908 |
1,525,203 |
|
Year |
Grant Date Fair Value of PBRSUs Assuming Threshold Payment Level ($) |
Grant Date Fair Value of PBRSUs (as included in table above) ($) |
Grant Date Fair Value of PBRSUs Assuming Maximum Payment Level ($) |
|
2024 |
938,999 |
2,505,497 |
3,758,380 |
2023 |
862,568 |
2,300,086 |
3,450,201 |
|
2022 |
742,639 |
1,980,153 |
2,970,299 |
|
|
2024 |
347,553 |
927,015 |
1,390,657 |
2023 |
328,350 |
875,153 |
1,312,873 |
|
2022 |
309,529 |
825,154 |
1,237,877 |
|
|
2024 |
206,785 |
551,366 |
827,182 |
2023 |
187,609 |
500,086 |
750,129 |
|
2022 |
168,845 |
450,069 |
675,173 |
|
|
2024 |
187,961 |
501,314 |
752,107 |
2023 |
168,919 |
450,248 |
675,372 |
|
2022 |
150,174 |
400,177 |
600,342 |
|
|
2024 |
122,215 |
325,868 |
488,936 |
2023 |
112,565 |
300,166 |
450,250 |
|
2022 |
103,176 |
275,149 |
412,723 |
Company Contributions to Defined Contribution and Non-Qualified Retirement Savings Plans
All Other Compensation (Excluding Perquisites) |
|||
|
Company Contributions to Defined Contribution Plan ($) |
Company Contributions to Non-Qualified Retirement Savings Plan ($) |
|
|
20,700 |
39,300 |
|
|
20,700 |
39,300 |
|
|
20,700 |
39,300 |
|
|
20,700 |
39,300 |
|
|
20,700 |
38,646 |
Perquisites
Perquisites |
|||||||||
|
Financial Planning Services ($) |
Matching Contributions to Qualified Charities ($) |
Spousal Travel ($)* |
Tax Reimbursements ($)* |
Executive Physicals ($) |
Other ($) |
|||
|
20,885 |
5,000 |
2,530† |
- |
3,350 |
53,214†† |
|||
|
13,520 |
5,000 |
1,663 |
- |
3,350 |
- |
|||
|
- |
5,000 |
5,490† |
1,375 |
3,600 |
- |
|||
|
- |
- |
1,925 |
- |
- |
- |
|||
|
14,985 |
4,910 |
- |
- |
3,350 |
- |
* |
Reimbursements for spousal travel and associated taxes relate solely to certain agent conferences and Company events where spousal attendance was expected. |
† |
Includes spousal travel on an aircraft that the Company leases a fractional interest in from a third party, where the aggregate incremental cost to the Company was zero. Flights were taken in accordance with the Company's non-commercial aircraft policy. |
†† |
Relates to costs associated with personal travel on an aircraft that the Company leases a fractional interest in from a third party taken by |
assassination of a senior level insurance executive. The amount in the table above reflects the aggregate incremental cost to the Company. For tax purposes, income was imputed to |
Grants of Plan-Based Awards in Last Fiscal Year
The following table contains information concerning plan-based awards granted to the NEOs in 2024. All equity awards were granted pursuant to the 2022 Plan. In order for such awards to vest, in addition to satisfying the applicable performance metrics, if any, the NEO generally must remain continuously employed by the Company through the applicable vesting date (for a description of termination benefits associated with these awards, please see the "Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control" section beginning on page53).
Grants of Plan-Based Awards in 2024
Estimated Future Payouts Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards |
Estimated Future Payouts Under Equity Incentive Plan Awards |
All Other Stock |
All Other |
Grant Date Fair |
||||||||||
|
Grant Date |
Threshold ($) (1) |
Target ($) |
Maximum ($) |
Threshold (#) (1) |
Target (#) |
Maximum (#) |
Awards: Number of Shares of Stock or Units (#) |
Option Awards: Number of Securities Underlying Options (#) |
Exercise or Base Price of Option Awards ($/Sh) |
Value of Stock and Option Awards ($) (2) |
|||
|
|
- |
2,200,000 |
4,290,000 |
||||||||||
|
2,328 |
9,311 |
13,967 |
1,255,402 |
||||||||||
|
4,656 |
9,311 |
13,967 |
1,250,095 |
||||||||||
|
9,311 |
1,250,095 |
||||||||||||
|
41,437 |
134.26 |
1,250,025 |
|||||||||||
|
|
- |
1,020,500 |
1,989,975 |
||||||||||
|
862 |
3,445 |
5,168 |
464,489 |
||||||||||
|
1,723 |
3,445 |
5,168 |
462,526 |
||||||||||
|
3,445 |
462,526 |
||||||||||||
|
15,332 |
134.26 |
462,525 |
|||||||||||
|
|
- |
840,000 |
1,638,000 |
||||||||||
|
513 |
2,049 |
3,074 |
276,267 |
||||||||||
|
1,025 |
2,049 |
3,074 |
275,099 |
||||||||||
|
2,049 |
275,099 |
||||||||||||
|
9,117 |
134.26 |
275,030 |
|||||||||||
|
|
- |
774,000 |
1,509,300 |
||||||||||
|
466 |
1,863 |
2,795 |
251,188 |
||||||||||
|
932 |
1,863 |
2,795 |
250,126 |
||||||||||
|
1,863 |
250,126 |
||||||||||||
|
8,288 |
134.26 |
250,030 |
|||||||||||
|
|
- |
474,400 |
925,080 |
||||||||||
|
303 |
1,211 |
1,817 |
163,279 |
||||||||||
|
606 |
1,211 |
1,817 |
162,589 |
||||||||||
|
1,211 |
162,589 |
||||||||||||
|
5,387 |
134.26 |
162,517 |
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End
The following table sets forth information for our NEOs regarding outstanding equity awards held as of
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End 2024
Option Awards |
Stock Awards |
||||||||||||
|
Grant Date (1) |
Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options Exercisable (#) |
Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options Unexercisable (#) |
Option Exercise Price ($) |
Option Expiration Date |
Grant Date |
Number of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested (#) (2) |
Market Value of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested ($) (3) |
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested (#) (2) |
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Market or Payout Value of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested ($) (3) |
|||
|
|
22,943 |
- |
66.14 |
|
|
7,311 |
(4) |
1,130,719 |
||||
|
21,413 |
- |
77.91 |
|
|
9,554 |
(5) |
1,477,622 |
|||||
|
27,292 |
- |
85.87 |
|
|
1,744 |
(6) |
269,727 |
|||||
|
72,078 |
- |
104.11 |
|
|
8,279 |
(4) |
1,280,430 |
8,655 |
(7) |
1,338,582 |
||
|
36,539 |
- |
117.22 |
|
|
8,365 |
(8) |
1,293,731 |
|||||
|
51,934 |
- |
118.54 |
|
|
9,129 |
(4) |
1,411,891 |
9,543 |
(9) |
1,475,920 |
||
|
41,747 |
- |
115.35 |
|
|
9,543 |
(10) |
1,475,920 |
|||||
|
23,126 |
11,563 |
139.51 |
|
|||||||||
|
12,151 |
24,302 |
140.01 |
|
|||||||||
|
- |
41,437 |
134.26 |
|
|||||||||
|
|
20,379 |
- |
117.22 |
|
|
3,050 |
(4) |
471,713 |
||||
|
26,832 |
- |
118.54 |
|
|
3,981 |
(5) |
615,701 |
|||||
|
19,084 |
- |
115.35 |
|
|
727 |
(6) |
112,438 |
|||||
|
9,636 |
4,818 |
139.51 |
|
|
3,153 |
(4) |
487,643 |
3,293 |
(7) |
509,295 |
||
|
4,622 |
9,246 |
140.01 |
|
|
3,183 |
(8) |
492,283 |
|||||
|
- |
15,332 |
134.26 |
|
|
3,381 |
(4) |
522,905 |
3,531 |
(9) |
546,104 |
||
|
3,531 |
(10) |
546,104 |
||||||||||
|
|
17,420 |
- |
77.91 |
|
|
1,738 |
(4) |
268,799 |
||||
|
21,222 |
- |
85.87 |
|
|
2,172 |
(5) |
335,922 |
|||||
|
20,489 |
- |
104.11 |
|
|
397 |
(6) |
61,400 |
|||||
|
9,137 |
- |
117.22 |
|
|
1,882 |
(4) |
291,070 |
1,882 |
(7) |
291,070 |
||
|
12,118 |
- |
118.54 |
|
|
1,819 |
(8) |
281,327 |
|||||
|
8,648 |
- |
115.35 |
|
|
2,100 |
(4) |
324,786 |
2,100 |
(9) |
324,786 |
||
|
5,256 |
2,628 |
139.51 |
|
|
2,100 |
(10) |
324,786 |
|||||
|
2,641 |
5,284 |
140.01 |
|
|||||||||
|
- |
9,117 |
134.26 |
|
|||||||||
|
|
21,052 |
- |
82.39 |
|
|
1,545 |
(4) |
238,950 |
||||
|
16,394 |
- |
104.11 |
|
|
1,931 |
(5) |
298,648 |
|||||
|
7,732 |
- |
117.22 |
|
|
353 |
(6) |
54,595 |
|||||
|
10,386 |
- |
118.54 |
|
|
1,695 |
(4) |
262,149 |
1,695 |
(7) |
262,149 |
||
|
7,753 |
- |
115.35 |
|
|
1,638 |
(8) |
253,333 |
|||||
|
4,672 |
2,336 |
139.51 |
|
|
1,910 |
(4) |
295,401 |
1,910 |
(9) |
295,401 |
||
|
2,377 |
4,756 |
140.01 |
|
|
1,910 |
(10) |
295,401 |
|||||
|
- |
8,288 |
134.26 |
|
|||||||||
|
|
8,655 |
- |
118.54 |
|
|
1,062 |
(4) |
164,249 |
||||
|
6,262 |
- |
115.35 |
|
|
1,328 |
(5) |
205,388 |
|||||
|
3,212 |
1,606 |
139.51 |
|
|
243 |
(6) |
37,582 |
|||||
|
1,585 |
3,170 |
140.01 |
|
|
1,130 |
(4) |
174,766 |
1,130 |
(7) |
174,766 |
||
|
- |
5,387 |
134.26 |
|
|
1,092 |
(8) |
168,889 |
|||||
|
1,242 |
(4) |
192,088 |
1,242 |
(9) |
192,088 |
|||||||
|
1,242 |
(10) |
192,088 |
Option Exercises and Stock Vested in 2024
The following table sets forth information for our NEOs regarding the value realized during 2024 pursuant to: (i) option exercises, and/or (ii) shares acquired upon vesting of previously granted stock awards.
Option Awards |
Stock Awards |
|||||
|
Number of Shares Acquired on Exercise (#) |
Value Realized on Exercise ($) (1) |
Number of Shares Acquired on Vesting (#) |
Value Realized on Vesting ($) (1) |
||
|
22,305 (2) |
1,812,727 (2) |
23,997 |
3,241,735 |
||
|
- |
- |
11,206 |
1,520,218 |
||
|
11,826 |
924,115 |
4,888 |
657,974 |
||
|
- |
- |
4,382 |
589,861 |
||
|
- |
- |
3,540 |
476,519 |
Retirement Benefits
401(k) Plan
The Company maintains a 401(k) retirement savings plan (the "401(k) Plan"). For 2024, the 401(k) Plan provided a 100% match on the first 6% of eligible compensation deferred under the 401(k) Plan. Eligible compensation generally consists of salary and cash bonus, up to the Internal Revenue Code limits for qualified 401(k) plans, which was
Non-Qualified Retirement Savings Plan
In connection with the 401(k) Plan, the Company also maintains the Non-Qualified Retirement Savings Plan. This plan provides eligible employees of the Company, including each of the NEOs, a 6% employer contribution on total eligible compensation in excess of Internal Revenue Code limits applied to the 401(k) Plan (subject to certain limits and contingent upon satisfaction of maximum employee contributions to the 401(k) Plan or receipt of evidence that the employee has made maximum contributions to a former employer's 401(k) plan for the year in question). Amounts deferred are credited with interest based on the GATT rate. This plan is unfunded and non-qualified. A participant's benefits are generally payable upon the earlier to occur of death or six months following termination of employment with the Company.
Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation in 2024
The following table sets forth certain information regarding NEO participation in the Non-Qualified Retirement Savings Plan for 2024:
|
Executive Contributions in 2024 ($) (1) |
Company Contributions in 2024 ($) (2) |
Aggregate Earnings in 2024 ($) (3) |
Aggregate Withdrawals/ Distributions in 2024 ($) |
Aggregate Balance at ($) (4) |
|
- |
39,300 |
25,593 |
- |
608,445 |
|
- |
39,300 |
13,903 |
- |
351,187 |
|
- |
39,300 |
25,737 |
- |
611,627 |
|
- |
39,300 |
11,802 |
- |
304,956 |
|
- |
38,646 |
5,842 |
- |
172,439 |
Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control
Overview
The information provided in the following tables reflects the amount of incremental compensation required to be paid to each applicable NEO in the event of a termination of the NEO's employment, including in connection with a change in control of the Company. For purposes of the disclosure, we have assumed that all triggering event(s) took place on December 31, 2024, and we used the closing price per share on the NYSE of our Common Stock on December 31, 2024 ($154.66). Due to the number of factors that affect the nature and amount of benefits provided upon the occurrence of such events, actual amounts paid or distributed may be different from the amounts disclosed below. Factors that could affect the actual amounts paid include:
Specifically excluded from the information and tables below are any amounts which are not contingent upon the occurrence of the triggering event(s) or payments pursuant to Company benefit plans that are generally available to all salaried employees of THG and do not discriminate in scope or terms of operation in favor of our NEOs (e.g., term life insurance and long-term disability insurance). Benefits to our NEOs under the CIC Plan are triggered only in the event of a Change in Control (defined below)anda subsequent occurrence of an involuntary termination of employment by the Company or constructive termination of employment by the NEO. The change in control column in the tables below assumes both a Change in Controlandthe occurrence of a termination event occurring on December 31, 2024.
Termination Other Than in Connection with a Change in Control
NEO Severance Arrangements
The material terms and conditions of the severance arrangements with each of our NEOs are summarized below:
Long-Term Equity Incentive Plans
Pursuant to the 2014 Plan and the 2022 Plan and/or certain stock award agreements evidencing awards issued thereunder, holders of stock awards, including the NEOs, may be entitled to pro-rated or full acceleration of vesting of their awards in the event
the holder dies, is disabled or terminates employment upon reaching "retirement eligibility" prior to the vesting date. In general, for these purposes, disability is as defined in the Company's long-term disability plan and "retirement eligibility" means age 65, or age 60 with five consecutive years of service. As of December 31, 2024, Messrs. Roche and Farber satisfied the requirements of "retirement eligibility." Additionally, during 2025, subject to their continued employment, Messrs. Kerrigan and Salvatore will satisfy the requirements of "retirement eligibility" with respect to their 2022, 2023 and 2024 awards.
Change in Control
THG's CIC Plan outlines the potential benefits certain key executives, including each of our NEOs, could receive in connection with a Change in Control (defined below) of the Company. In the event of a Change in Control of the Company and subsequent involuntary termination of a participant's employment by the Company or a constructive termination of a participant's employment by the participant within a two-year period following the Change in Control, the CIC Plan authorizes the payment of specified benefits to eligible participants. These include a lump-sum cash payment equal to a multiplier (the "Multiplier") (2x for Messrs. Roche and Farber, and 1.5x for Messrs. Lavey, Salvatore and Kerrigan) times the sum of a participant's applicable base salary and target short-term incentive compensation award opportunity. Additionally, a participant is entitled to a cash payment of an amount equal to the amount that otherwise would have been credited under the Company's 401(k) Plan and Non-Qualified Retirement Savings Plan for the year in which the employee's employment was terminated. The CIC Plan also provides for continued coverage for up to one year under the Company's health plans, payment of an amount equal to the participant's target short-term incentive compensation award opportunity, pro-rated for service performed in the year of termination, and outplacement services.The NEOs are not entitled to a gross-up payment under the CIC Plan if their change in control payments and benefits become subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Internal Revenue Code.
Pursuant to the 2014 Plan and the 2022 Plan, as applicable, and the various agreements evidencing awards issued thereunder, in the event of a change in control (defined below), the participant may be entitled to certain accelerated vesting of equity awards if such awards are not assumed by the successor company, or if such participant's employment is involuntarily or constructively terminated after the change in control. To comply with Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code, certain TBRSUs issued to individuals who meet the requirements of "retirement eligibility" (or will meet the requirements of "retirement eligibility" prior to the TBRSU's scheduled vesting date) will immediately vest and become payable upon the occurrence of a change in control. The 2022, 2023 and 2024 TBRSU awards for each of Messrs. Roche, Farber, Salvatore and Kerrigan contain such a provision because each of them is eligible to meet the requirements of "retirement eligibility" before the vesting date of these awards. The tables below present the hypothetical values as if such awards are assumed by a successor company and such participant is involuntarily or constructively terminated thereafter. Such hypothetical values would be identical in the event the successor company did not assume the equity grants and instead they were accelerated.
As further described in the footnotes and because the tables assume a hypothetical triggering event on December 31, 2024, the values in the tables below include amounts for short-term and long-term incentive compensation awards that vested and were earned by the executives in the first quarter of 2025.
Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control* Tables
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
Benefit |
Death |
Disability |
For Cause |
Without Cause |
Retirement |
For Good Reason |
Change in Control |
||||||||||||||
Cash Severance(1) (2) |
$ |
- |
$ |
- |
$ |
- |
$ |
3,300,000 |
$ |
- |
$ |
3,300,000 |
$ |
6,600,000 |
|||||||
Cash Incentives(3) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
2,200,000 |
||||||||||||||
Equity |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Unvested Restricted Stock Units (PBRSUs and TBRSUs) (4) |
7,316,191 |
10,584,621 |
- |
- |
11,154,543 |
- |
10,356,962 |
||||||||||||||
Unexercisable Stock Options (5) |
1,376,519 |
1,376,519 |
- |
- |
1,376,519 |
- |
1,376,519 |
||||||||||||||
Other Benefits |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Health & Welfare (6) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
29,261 |
||||||||||||||
Outplacement (7) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
40,000 |
||||||||||||||
Cash Severance Related to Company's 401(k) and NQ Retirement Savings Plan (8) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
60,000 |
||||||||||||||
TOTAL |
$ |
8,692,710 |
$ |
11,961,140 |
$ |
- |
$ |
3,300,000 |
$ |
12,531,062 |
$ |
3,300,000 |
$ |
20,662,742 |
|||||||
See pages 56-58 for footnotes |
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
Benefit |
Death |
Disability |
For Cause |
Without Cause |
Retirement |
For Good Reason |
Change in Control |
||||||||||||||
Cash Severance(1) (2) |
$ |
- |
$ |
- |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,570,000 |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,570,000 |
$ |
3,611,000 |
|||||||
Cash Incentives(3) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
1,020,500 |
||||||||||||||
Equity |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Unvested Restricted Stock Units (PBRSUs and TBRSUs) (4) |
2,850,693 |
4,096,325 |
- |
1,199,852 |
4,304,188 |
1,199,852 |
3,988,063 |
||||||||||||||
Unexercisable Stock Options (5) |
521,220 |
521,220 |
- |
244,964 |
521,220 |
244,964 |
521,220 |
||||||||||||||
Other Benefits |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Health & Welfare (6) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
22,912 |
||||||||||||||
Outplacement (7) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
40,000 |
||||||||||||||
Cash Severance Related to Company's 401(k) and NQ Retirement Savings Plan (8) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
60,000 |
||||||||||||||
TOTAL |
$ |
3,371,913 |
$ |
4,617,545 |
$ |
- |
$ |
3,014,816 |
$ |
4,825,408 |
$ |
3,014,816 |
$ |
9,263,695 |
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
Benefit |
Death |
Disability |
For Cause |
Without Cause |
Retirement |
For Good Reason |
Change in Control |
||||||||||||||
Cash Severance(1) (2) |
$ |
- |
$ |
- |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,540,000 |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,540,000 |
$ |
2,310,000 |
|||||||
Cash Incentives(3) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
840,000 |
||||||||||||||
Equity |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Unvested Restricted Stock Units (PBRSUs and TBRSUs) (4) |
1,659,811 |
2,377,898 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
2,327,014 |
||||||||||||||
Unexercisable Stock Options (5) |
303,212 |
303,212 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
303,212 |
||||||||||||||
Other Benefits |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Health & Welfare (6) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
1,850 |
||||||||||||||
Outplacement (7) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
40,000 |
||||||||||||||
Cash Severance Related to Company's 401(k) and NQ Retirement Savings Plan (8) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
60,000 |
||||||||||||||
TOTAL |
$ |
1,963,023 |
$ |
2,681,110 |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,540,000 |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,540,000 |
$ |
5,882,076 |
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
Benefit |
Death |
Disability |
For Cause |
Without Cause |
Retirement |
For Good Reason |
Change in Control |
||||||||||||||
Cash Severance(1) (2) |
$ |
- |
$ |
- |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,419,000 |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,419,000 |
$ |
2,128,500 |
|||||||
Cash Incentives(3) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
774,000 |
||||||||||||||
Equity |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Unvested Restricted Stock Units (PBRSUs and TBRSUs) (4) |
1,492,624 |
2,140,494 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
2,097,654 |
||||||||||||||
Unexercisable Stock Options (5) |
274,141 |
274,141 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
274,141 |
||||||||||||||
Other Benefits |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Health & Welfare (6) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
31,341 |
||||||||||||||
Outplacement (7) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
40,000 |
||||||||||||||
Cash Severance Related to Company's 401(k) and NQ Retirement Savings Plan (8) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
60,000 |
||||||||||||||
TOTAL |
$ |
1,766,765 |
$ |
2,414,635 |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,419,000 |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,419,000 |
$ |
5,405,636 |
|||||||
See pages 56-58 for footnotes |
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
Benefit |
Death |
Disability |
For Cause |
Without Cause |
Retirement |
For Good Reason |
Change in Control |
||||||||||||||
Cash Severance(1) (2) |
$ |
- |
$ |
- |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,067,400 |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,067,400 |
$ |
1,601,100 |
|||||||
Cash Incentives(3) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
474,400 |
||||||||||||||
Equity |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Unvested Restricted Stock Units (PBRSUs and TBRSUs) (4) |
998,021 |
1,427,666 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
1,394,724 |
||||||||||||||
Unexercisable Stock Options (5) |
180,666 |
180,666 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
180,666 |
||||||||||||||
Other Benefits |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Health & Welfare (6) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
28,791 |
||||||||||||||
Outplacement (7) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
40,000 |
||||||||||||||
Cash Severance Related to Company's 401(k) and NQ Retirement Savings Plan (8) |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
59,346 |
||||||||||||||
TOTAL |
$ |
1,178,687 |
$ |
1,608,332 |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,067,400 |
$ |
- |
$ |
1,067,400 |
$ |
3,779,027 |
|||||||
* |
Please refer to the change in control definitions below for an explanation of what constitutes a change in control under the CIC Plan, the 2014 Plan and the 2022 Plan. Prior to receiving any benefits under the CIC Plan, the participant must execute certain waivers and general releases in favor of the Company. In addition, in order to be eligible to participate in the CIC Plan, participants must execute a non-solicitation and non-interference agreement,regardlessof whether or not they ever receive benefits thereunder. This agreement also contains a non-disparagement and cooperation provision and provides that all proprietary information relating to the Company's business and all software, works of authorship and other developments created during employment by the Company are the sole property of the Company. |
Under the CIC Plan,Change in Controlis defined as follows: (i) subject to certain exceptions, a change in the composition of the Board such that the Incumbent Directors (as defined in the CIC Plan) at the beginning of any consecutive twenty-four month period cease to constitute a majority of the Board; (ii) subject to certain exceptions, any person or group is or becomes the beneficial owner of 35% or more of the Company's outstanding voting securities; (iii) the consummation of a merger, consolidation, share exchange or similar form of corporate transaction involving the Company or any affiliate that requires shareholder approval, unless the shareholders immediately prior to the transaction own more than 50% of the total voting stock of the successor corporation and a majority of the board of directors of the successor corporation were Incumbent Directors immediately prior to the transaction; (iv) the approval by shareholders of a sale of all, or substantially all, of the Company's assets and such sale is consummated; or (v) the approval by shareholders of a plan of liquidation or dissolution of the Company. |
|
The definition of a "change in control" under the 2014 Plan and the 2022 Plan is substantially consistent with the definition in the CIC Plan, except that pursuant to the 2014 Plan and the 2022 Plan, a "change in control" is triggered by the consummation of a merger, consolidation, share exchange or similar form of corporate transaction involving the Company or any affiliate that requires shareholder approval, unless the shareholders immediately prior to the transaction own more than 50% of the total voting stock of the successor corporationora majority of the board of directors of the successor corporation were Incumbent Directors immediately prior to the transaction. |
PBRSUs
Death.In the event of an NEO's death, a pro-rated portion of the PBRSUs vests and the awards remain subject to the performance-based vesting conditions as calculated pursuant to the terms of the award agreement as of the date of the termination event. For each of the 2022, 2023 and 2024 RTSR PBRSUs, the value is presented at 25.0%, 64.0% and 100.0% of target, respectively. For each of the 2022, 2023 and 2024 ROE PBRSUs, the value is presented at 95.0%, 101.7% and 100.0% of target, respectively.
Disability.In the event of an NEO's disability, a pro-rated portion of the PBRSUs vests and the participant is given an additional one-year service credit, and the awards remain subject to the performance-based vesting conditions as calculated pursuant to the terms of the award agreement as of the date of the termination event. The value presented for each of the 2022 RTSR PBRSUs and 2022 ROE PBRSUs is based on the actual payout of 25.0% and 125.0% of target, respectively. The value for each of the 2023 and 2024 RTSR PBRSUs is presented at target. The value for each of the 2023 and 2024 ROE PBRSUs is presented at 133.3% and 131.6% of target, respectively.
Retirement.In the event Messrs. Roche and Farber, who are retirement eligible under the terms of their 2022, 2023 and 2024 PBRSU awards, retired as of December 31, 2024, their full 2022, 2023 and 2024 PBRSUs would remain outstanding and be eligible to be earned based upon the Company's actual level of performance measured against pre-established metrics. The value of each of their 2022 RTSR PBRSUs and 2022 ROE PBRSUs is based on the actual payout of 25.0% and 125.0% of target, respectively. The value of each of their 2023 and 2024 PBRSU awards is each presented at target. Since the actual values of the 2023 and 2024 PBRSU awards are not calculated until the end of each performance period, as applicable, the actual values of these awards may differ from the amount disclosed above.
Without Cause / For Good Reason.The terms of
Change in Control.In the event of a change in control, unless such awards are assumed by the successor entity, 100% of the PBRSUs vest based upon the level of achievement as of the change in control. If awards are assumed, the assumed award will be a time-based RSU with respect to the number of units that would be earned under the original PBRSU award based on the level of achievement as of the change in control, and the assumed award will fully accelerate and vest if an NEO's employment is involuntarily or constructively terminated following the change in control. As calculated pursuant to the terms of the award agreement, the value for each of the 2022, 2023 and 2024 RTSR PBRSUs is presented at 25.0%, 64.0% and 100.0% of target, respectively. As calculated pursuant to the terms of the award agreement, the value for each of the 2022, 2023 and 2024 ROE PBRSUs is presented at 95%, 101.7% and 100.0% of target, respectively.
TBRSUs
Death and Disability.In the event of an NEO's death or disability, the award vests in full.
Retirement.In the event Messrs. Roche and Farber, who are retirement eligible under the terms of their 2022, 2023 and 2024 TBRSU awards, retired as of December 31, 2024, their 2022, 2023 and 2024 TBRSU awards would have vested in full. Although each of their 2022, 2023 and 2024 TBRSU awards vest upon retirement, payment is deferred until the regularly scheduled vesting date of the awards. Accordingly, the actual value of the 2022, 2023 and 2024 TBRSU awards may differ from the amount disclosed above because the stock price may differ when the TBRSU awards are paid.
Without Cause / For Good Reason.The terms of
Change in Control.In the event of a change in control, unless such award is assumed by the successor entity, 100% of the TBRSUs vest. If awards are assumed, then participants are not entitled to any acceleration unless the participant's employment is involuntarily or constructively terminated following the change in control. To comply with Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code, certain TBRSUs issued to individuals who meet the requirements of "retirement eligibility" (or will meet the requirements of "retirement eligibility" prior to the TBRSU's scheduled vesting date) will immediately vest and become payable upon the occurrence of a change in control. Each of Messrs. Roche, Farber, Salvatore and Kerrigan's 2022, 2023 and 2024 TBRSU awards
include such a provision because they each will meet the requirements of "retirement eligibility" before the vesting date of each award.
Death and Disability.In the event of an NEO's death or disability, any unvested options immediately vest and become exercisable in full.
Retirement. In the event Messrs. Roche and Farber, who are retirement eligible under the terms of their 2022, 2023 and 2024 option awards, retired as of December 31, 2024, their 2022, 2023 and 2024 options would remain outstanding and subject to the vesting schedule pursuant to the award agreements. Accordingly, the actual value of the 2022, 2023 and 2024 option awards may differ than the amount disclosed above because the stock price may differ when the option awards actually become exercisable.
Without Cause / For Good Reason.The terms of
Change in Control.Unless such awards are assumed by the successor entity, upon a change in control unvested options immediately vest and become exercisable in full. If awards are assumed, then participants are not entitled to any acceleration unless their employment is involuntarily or constructively terminated following the change in control.
CEO Pay Ratio
Set forth below is an estimate of the relationship between the annual total compensation of our median compensated employee and the annual total compensation of
For the 2024 fiscal year:
To calculate our CEO pay ratio as described above, we used the following methodology and assumptions:
Median Employee
CEO
In accordance with
Relationship Between Pay and Performance
As required by Item 402(v) of Regulation S-K, we are presenting information that describes the relationship between compensation actually paid to our NEOs, as computed in accordance with the rules prescribed by Item 402(v), and certain measures of financial performance of the Company. While the information provided below may be useful to understanding the relationship between the compensation actually paid to our NEOs and our financial performance, we believe that this disclosure should be read in the context of the more complete and comprehensive discussion of our executive compensation program set forth in the CD&A beginning on page27, and in the CD&A sections of our Proxy Statements for prior periods presented in the table below.
Pay Versus Performance
Value of Initial Fixed $100 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Investment Based On: |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Year |
Summary Compensation Table Total for CEO ($)(1) |
Compensation Actually Paid to CEO ($)(2)(3) |
Average Summary Compensation Table Total for Non-CEO Named Executive Officers ($)(4) |
Average Compensation Actually Paid to Non-CEO Named Executive Officers ($)(2)(5) |
Total Shareholder Retu($)(6) |
Peer Group Total Shareholder Retu($)(7) |
Net Income ($ in millions) (8) |
Ex-Cat Operating Income ($ in millions)(9) |
||||||||||||||||
2024 |
9,550,596 |
13,063,736 |
3,068,602 |
3,901,791 |
127.71 |
227.67 |
426.0 |
1,026.0 |
||||||||||||||||
2023 |
7,721,129 |
5,788,287 |
2,458,068 |
1,997,478 |
97.77 |
168.05 |
35.3 |
795.7 |
||||||||||||||||
2022 |
6,826,023 |
7,254,520 |
2,234,298 |
2,351,602 |
105.83 |
151.65 |
116.0 |
687.7 |
||||||||||||||||
2021 |
6,773,668 |
8,437,307 |
2,230,923 |
2,666,961 |
100.41 |
127.58 |
418.7 |
834.9 |
||||||||||||||||
2020 |
6,234,413 |
6,069,766 |
2,275,250 |
2,196,681 |
87.69 |
106.96 |
358.7 |
771.4 |
Year |
Deductions from Summary Compensation Table ($) |
Year-End |
Year-over-Year Change in Fair Value of Outstanding and Unvested Equity Awards Granted in |
Fair Value as of Vesting Date of Equity Awards that Vested During the Same Year Granted ($)(c) |
Change in Fair Value of Equity Awards Granted in |
Total Equity Award Adjustments ($) |
2024 |
(5,005,617) |
6,146,332 |
1,944,553 |
66,958 |
360,914 |
3,513,140 |
2023 |
(4,600,133) |
3,687,677 |
(1,228,420) |
45,533 |
162,501 |
(1,932,842) |
2022 |
(3,960,266) |
3,815,952 |
346,063 |
- |
226,748 |
428,497 |
2021 |
(3,500,384) |
4,218,774 |
861,727 |
- |
83,522 |
1,663,639 |
2020 |
(3,000,633) |
3,487,342 |
(478,737) |
- |
(172,619) |
(164,647) |
Year |
Deductions from Summary Compensation Table ($) |
Year-End |
Year-over-Year Change in Fair Value of Outstanding and Unvested Equity Awards Granted in |
Fair Value as of Vesting Date of Equity Awards that Vested During the Same Year Granted ($)(c) |
Change in Fair Value of Equity Awards Granted in |
Total Equity Award Adjustments ($) |
2024 |
(1,151,501) |
1,423,107 |
462,114 |
6,054 |
93,415 |
833,189 |
2023 |
(1,062,762) |
862,452 |
(305,478) |
- |
45,198 |
(460,590) |
2022 |
(975,188) |
939,752 |
93,755 |
- |
58,985 |
117,304 |
2021 |
(875,182) |
1,054,927 |
232,428 |
- |
23,865 |
436,038 |
2020 |
(837,555) |
973,516 |
(134,247) |
- |
(80,283) |
(78,569) |
Effective December 31, 2004, benefits under our defined benefit plan were frozen. Accordingly, no adjustments have been included for changes in the actuarial present value of the defined benefit pension plans.
Relationship Between Compensation Actually Paid to Metrics Identified in the Pay Versus Performance Table
$6,462$6,070$8,437$7,255$5,788$2,784$2,231$2,667$2,352$1,997$126.73$111.13$127.25$134.13$123.91$125.87$134.63$160.58$190.89$211.53$0$50$100$150$200$25020192020202120222023Indexed TSR (to $100) Compensation Actually Paid ($000s) vs. TSRCEO Compensation Actually Paid ($000s)Average NEO Compensation Actually Paid ($000s) Hanover TSRS&P 500 P&C Index$6,462$6,070$8,437$7,255$5,788$2,784$2,231$2,667$2,352$1,997$425.1$358.7$422.8$116.0$35.3$622.9$771.4$834.9$687.7$795.7$0$300$600$90020192020202120222023Income ($Mil) Compensation Actually Paid ($000s) vs. Net Income and Ex-CAT Operating Income ($Mil) CEO Compensation Actually Paid ($000s) Average NEO Compensation Actually Paid ($000s) $6,462$6,070$8,437$7,255$5,788$2,784$2,231$2,667$2,352$1,997$126.73$111.13$127.25$134.13$123.91$125.87$134.63$160.58$190.89$211.53$0$50$100$150$200$25020192020202120222023Indexed TSR (to $100) Compensation Actually Paid ($000s) vs. TSRCEO Compensation Actually Paid ($000s)Average NEO Compensation Actually Paid ($000s) Hanover TSRS&P 500 P&C Index$6,462$6,070$8,437$7,255$5,788$2,784$2,231$2,667$2,352$1,997$425.1$358.7$418.7$116.0$35.3$622.9$771.4$834.9$687.7$795.7$0$300$600$90020192020202120222023Income ($Mil) Compensation Actually Paid ($000s) vs. Net Income and Ex-CAT Operating Income ($Mil) CEO Compensation Actually Paid ($000s) Average NEO Compensation Actually Paid ($000s)
Principal Financial Metrics We Use to Link Compensation Actually Paid to Company Performance for 2024
The principal financial metrics that we use to link compensation actually paid to our performance for 2024, as further described in the CD&A beginning on page27, are as follows:
Financial Performance Measures |
Ex-Cat Operating Income(1)(2) |
Pre-Tax Operating Income(2) |
Relative Total Shareholder Return(3) |
Adjusted Operating ROE(2)(4) |
• • • • • • • |
• Mercury Group Corporation • • • • • • |
• |
• |
• |
• |
• • • Markel Group Inc. |
• • |
The information provided under Relationship Between Pay and Performance shall not be deemed incorporated by reference by any general statement incorporating by reference this Proxy Statement into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that THG specifically incorporates this information by reference.
HOUSEHOLDINGINFORMATION
Some brokers and nominees may be participating in the practice of "householding" proxy statements, annual reports and notices of Internet availability of proxy materials. This means that only one copy of our Proxy Statement, our Annual Report or our Notice may have been sent to multiple shareholders in your household. We will promptly deliver a separate copy of any of the documents to you if you call 1-508-855-1000 (and ask the operator for
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT PROXY MATERIALS AND THE ANNUAL MEETING
What is included in these proxy materials?These proxy materials include our Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting and our Annual Report, including our financial statements and the report of PwC thereon. The Annual Report is neither a part of this Proxy Statement nor incorporated herein by reference. If you requested a paper copy of these materials by mail, these materials also include the proxy card for submitting your vote prior to the Annual Meeting.
What is the purpose of the Annual Meeting?At the Annual Meeting, shareholders will act on the following matters:
Any other business that properly comes before the Annual Meeting also will be considered. In addition, management and the Board will respond to questions from shareholders.
Who is entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting?Only shareholders of record at the close of business on March 20, 2025 (the "Record Date") are entitled to vote at the Meeting.
What are the voting rights of the holders of the Company's Common Stock?Each share of Common Stock entitles its holder to one vote.
Who is soliciting my vote?The Board is soliciting your vote at the Annual Meeting. We have retained Georgeson LLC of
How does the Board recommend that I vote?Our Board recommends you vote your shares "FOR" the election of each Board nominee and "FOR" each of the other items specifically identified in this Proxy Statement for action at the Annual Meeting.
How many shares are entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting?As of the Record Date, 36,039,404 shares of Common Stock were issued, outstanding and entitled to be voted.
How many shares must be present to hold the Annual Meeting?A majority of the issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting must be present either in person or by proxy to constitute a quorum. Abstentions will be treated as present at the Annual Meeting for the purpose of determining a quorum and, because brokers have the discretionary authority to vote on one item (the ratification of auditors), broker non-votes will also be treated as present at the Annual Meeting for the purpose of determining a quorum. A "broker non-vote" occurs when a broker holding shares for a beneficial owner returns a proxy but does not vote on a particular item because the broker does not have discretionary voting power for that particular item and has not received voting instructions from the beneficial owner. Banks and brokers that have not received voting instructions from their clients cannot vote on their clients' behalf on any matter specifically identified for action at the Annual Meeting other than the ratification of the appointment of PwC to serve as the Company's independent, registered public accounting firm for 2025.
How do I vote?You may either attend and vote at the Annual Meeting, or vote by proxy without attending the Annual Meeting.
How do I vote by proxy?If your shares are held in a brokerage account or by another nominee, you are considered the beneficial owner of shares held in "street name," and such brokerage firm or nominee will forward the Notice and/or a printed copy of the proxy materials to you, together with voting instructions. As the beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your broker, trustee or nominee how to vote.
If you are a registered shareholder (that is, if you hold stock certificates directly in your name), you may vote via the Internet in accordance with the instructions set forth in the Notice. If you have requested a paper copy of the proxy materials, you may vote by
mail, via the Internet, or via the toll-free number in accordance with the instructions set forth on the proxy card. The shares of Common Stock represented by your proxy will be voted as you directed or, if the proxy card is signed, dated and returned without instructions, in accordance with the Board's recommendations as set forth in this Proxy Statement.
The proxy also confers discretionary authority with respect to any other items that may properly be brought before the Annual Meeting. As of the date of this Proxy Statement, neither the Board nor management is aware of any other matters to be presented for action at the Annual Meeting. However, if any other matters properly come before the Annual Meeting, then the proxies solicited hereby will be voted in accordance with the recommendations of the Board.
Can I change my vote after I submit my proxy?Yes. Any registered shareholder giving a proxy may revoke it at any time before it is exercised by delivering written notice thereof to the Company's Corporate Secretary,
What vote is required to approve each item, and how are abstentions and broker non-votes treated?Each of Item I (election of five director nominees), Item II (advisory vote on executive compensation) and Item III (ratification of the Company's independent auditor) requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes properly cast (in person or by proxy). For purposes of electing directors, "the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast" means that the number of votes cast "for" a director must exceed the number of votes cast "against" that director. For each such item, abstentions and broker non-votes, because they are not votes cast, are not counted and will have no effect on the outcome of each item. For Item III (ratification of the Company's independent auditor), however, banks and brokers that have not received voting instructions from their clients may vote their clients' shares on Item III.
What happens if a director nominee is not elected at the Annual Meeting?If a nominee who is currently serving as a director is not re-elected at the Annual Meeting, then, under
How do participants in The Hanover Insurance Group Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the "ESPP") vote their shares?ESPP participants who retain their issued shares are considered to hold such shares in "street name" in a brokerage account. Such shares may be voted like other "street name" holders. The brokerage firm or nominee will forward ESPP participants the Notice and/or a printed copy of the proxy materials, together with voting instructions. ESPP participants' voting instructions are kept confidential by the administrator of the ESPP.
Who can attend the Annual Meeting?The Meeting is open to all THG shareholders of record as of the Record Date and to invited guests of the Board. Individuals who hold shares in "street name" may be required to provide proof of their share ownership as of the Record Date.
ANNUAL REPORTON FORM 10-K
Shareholders may obtain, without charge, a copy of THG's Annual Report on Form 10-K, including financial statements and financial statement schedules, required to be filed with the
OTHER MATTERS
Management knows of no business that will be presented for consideration at the Annual Meeting other than as stated in the Notice. If, however, other matters are properly brought before the Annual Meeting, it is the intention of the proxy holders to vote the shares represented thereby on such matters in accordance with the recommendation of the Board, and authority to do so is included in the proxy.
SHAREHOLDERPROPOSALS
Proposals submitted by shareholders of THG must be received by email to the Company's Corporate Secretary, corpsecy@hanover.com, by 5:00 p.m. EasteTime on November 27, 2025, and must otherwise comply with
Any shareholder proposal to be considered at the Company's 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, but not included in the proxy materials, must be submitted by email to the Company's Corporate Secretary, corpsecy@hanover.com, by 5:00 p.m. EasteTime on February 10, 2026, or the persons appointed as proxies may exercise their discretionary voting authority with respect to that proposal. The persons appointed as proxies may also exercise their discretionary voting authority with respect to shareholder proposals submitted prior to February 10, 2026, unless the proponent otherwise complies with the requirements of the
Shareholders seeking to nominate persons for election as directors of the Board must deliver written notice of such nomination to the Company's Corporate Secretary, which shall be delivered to or mailed and received at the principal executive offices of the Company no earlier than January 13, 2026 and no later than February 12, 2026. In the event that less than 30 days' notice or prior public disclosure of the date of the meeting is given or made to shareholders, notice by the shareholder must be received at the principal executive offices not later than the close of business on the tenth day following the date on which such notice of the meeting was mailed or made public. The written notice shall comply with all requirements set forth in Section 3.3 of the By-laws and the requirements set forth in the
DATED at
By Order of the Board of Directors,
Senior Vice President and Secretary
Appendix A
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
The discussion of our results in the CD&A beginning on page27and the section entitled "Relationship Between Pay and Performance" beginning on page59include a discussion of the following non-GAAP financial measures: (i) operating income before interest expense and income taxes ("Pre-Tax Operating Income"); (ii) Pre-Tax Operating Income excluding catastrophes ("Ex-Cat Operating Income"); and (iii) adjusted operating retuon average equity ("Adjusted Operating ROE"). These non-GAAP financial measures may be defined differently by other companies. They are important for an understanding of our overall results of operations and financial condition; however, they should not be viewed as a substitute for measures determined in accordance with
Pre-Tax Operating Income
Pre-Tax Operating Income is a non-GAAP financial measure because it excludes from net income certain items of expense or income that management does not consider representative of the results attributable to the core operations of our business. The items excluded were primarily realized and unrealized investment gains and losses, losses on the repayment of debt, discontinued operations, interest expense on debt, and income taxes. A reconciliation of Pre-Tax Operating Income to income from continuing operations and net income is presented below and on page 39 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the
Ex-Cat Operating Income
Ex-Cat Operating Income is a non-GAAP financial measure because it excludes from net income certain items of expense or income that management does not consider representative of the results attributable to the core operations of our business, including those items noted above, as well as the impact of catastrophe losses on our results. Although catastrophe losses are a significant component in understanding and assessing our financial performance, management has metrics that evaluate results excluding catastrophes due to the fact that catastrophes are not predictable as to the timing or the amount that will affect our operations.
A reconciliation for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2020 of Pre-Tax Operating Income and Ex-Cat Operating Income to Income from continuing operations, net of tax, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, is set forth below.
Years Ended December 31 |
|||||||||||||||
(in millions) |
2024 |
2023 |
2022 |
2021 |
2020 |
||||||||||
Net income |
$ |
426.0 |
$ |
35.3 |
$ |
116.0 |
$ |
418.7 |
$ |
358.7 |
|||||
Discontinued operations |
(0.7) |
(1.8) |
0.8 |
1.3 |
3.3 |
||||||||||
Income from continuing operations, net of tax |
425.3 |
33.5 |
116.8 |
420.0 |
362.0 |
||||||||||
Adjustment for non-operating items |
60.6 |
22.7 |
83.1 |
(101.7) |
(7.0) |
||||||||||
Operating income, net of interest expense and income taxes |
485.9 |
56.2 |
199.9 |
318.3 |
355.0 |
||||||||||
Income tax expense on operating income |
130.1 |
15.3 |
51.1 |
80.0 |
92.6 |
||||||||||
Interest expense on debt |
34.1 |
34.1 |
34.1 |
34.0 |
37.1 |
||||||||||
Pre-tax operating income |
650.1 |
105.6 |
285.1 |
432.3 |
484.7 |
||||||||||
Pre-tax catastrophe losses |
375.9 |
690.1 |
402.6 |
402.6 |
286.7 |
||||||||||
Ex-Cat operating income |
$ |
1,026.0 |
$ |
795.7 |
$ |
687.7 |
$ |
834.9 |
$ |
771.4 |
Adjusted Operating ROE
Operating income retuon average equity ("Operating ROE") is a non-GAAP financial measure because it excludes from net income certain items of income or expense that management does not consider representative of the results attributable to the core operations of our business, including certain of those items noted above under "Pre-Tax Operating Income." Operating ROE is calculated by dividing operating income after income taxes and interest expense on debt for the applicable period by average shareholders' equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Additionally, total shareholders' equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), is also a non-GAAP measure. Total shareholders' equity is the most directly comparable GAAP measure to shareholders' equity, excluding accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Average shareholders'
equity is calculated using the sum of (a) total shareholders' equity at the end of each quarter and (b) the ending balance at December 31 of the prior year, divided by five.
Adjusted Operating ROE, also a non-GAAP financial measure, is calculated by adjusting Operating ROE for each annual period to exclude the following:
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