This morning, Liberty Mutual Insurance announced the retirement of David H. Long, chairman and CEO, who will retire at the end of 2022. The organization's board of directors appointed Timothy M. Sweeney as CEO effective January 2023. Sweeney will also become a member of the board of directors effective immediately.

Long, who is 61 years old, has worked for the Boston-based insurer for 37 years, becoming president in 2010, CEO in 2011 and chairman in 2013. Under his leadership, Liberty Mutual has grown into the sixth-largest global property-casualty insurer and has been recognized with numerous awards for its philanthropic workplace culture, and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts.

“Liberty Mutual has been a part of my life for nearly four decades," Long said. “The company has experienced significant change, challenges and transformation over the years, and I'm fortunate to have been a part of it all. Tim is an outstanding leader who will continue to drive the organization forward, harnessing the strength of our global organization. I'm extremely grateful to our employees as they are what makes this an exceptional place to work by doing what's right for our customers, partners, communities and each other."

Sweeney becomes the 10th CEO in Liberty Mutual's 110-year history and has been at the company for nearly 30 years. He joined Liberty Mutual in 1993 as director of corporate strategy and has held positions in global personal lines and small commercial segments. He was named president of the insurer last year.

“It is truly an honor to succeed David and lead this incredible company of 47,000 global employees—each of whom brings their full commitment to deliver for our customers every day," Sweeney said. “I'm grateful to David, the Board and the entire Liberty Mutual community for their confidence and support. I look forward to continue building on our great success as we begin this next chapter of the company's future together."

“David Long has been an incredible leader for Liberty Mutual as chairman and CEO, and a great partner of the independent agency system and the Big 'I,'" says Bob Rusbuldt, Big "I" president & CEO. "He has guided Liberty Mutual to new levels of success, and his legacy in our industry will be powerful. Tim Sweeney will do a fabulous job as CEO and will continue the vital partnership we have with him and the company. His experience to lead Liberty Mutual is unparalleled, and there is no doubt he will be a great industry leader."

Olivia Overman is IA content editor.