The Hartford has named company president A. Morris “Mo” Tooker (pictured) as its next chief executive, setting up a leadership transition at the US insurer as it continues to reshape its portfolio and expand its core insurance businesses.
Tooker will succeed Christopher Swift as CEO on March 1, 2027, while Swift will move into the role of executive chair of the board. Tooker will also join The Hartford’s board on Oct. 1, 2026.
The succession comes during a period of strong earnings and strategic change for the Connecticut-based insurer. The Hartford reported $1.3 billion in net income available to common shareholders for the second quarter of 2026, up 31% year over year, while property and casualty written premiums increased 3%. Business Insurance premiums rose 5%, and the segment posted a 91.4 combined ratio. The company also authorized a new $4.2 billion share repurchase program.
“The thoughtful succession plan ensures a seamless transition, preserving strategic continuity, business momentum and operational strength,” said Trevor Fetter, lead independent director of The Hartford’s board.
“Respected throughout the insurance industry, Mo combines strategic vision with disciplined execution. He has consistently delivered profitable growth, advanced customer-centered innovation, upheld underwriting rigor and built strong, aligned teams.”
Tooker joined The Hartford in 2015 as chief underwriting officer and has held a series of senior leadership positions over the past 11 years.
As president, he has overseen business performance, strategy and enterprise-wide execution. The insurer said his tenure has included efforts to strengthen underwriting capabilities, broaden risk appetite and expand risk-mitigation services.
Tooker has also pushed for greater coordination across The Hartford’s business units and distribution strategy, including a more integrated approach to serving customers and brokers.
“I am excited and inspired to lead The Hartford during this time of extraordinary opportunity,” Tooker said.
“As a result of Chris’ tremendous vision and leadership, we are exceptionally well-positioned for the future with financial strength, a disciplined strategy and an unwavering commitment to excellence.”
The leadership change will take place as The Hartford makes several significant moves across its portfolio.
In August, the insurer agreed to acquire Equitable’s employee benefits business, adding approximately $500 million in premium and expanding its position among small and midsize employers. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.
Meanwhile, The Hartford agreed in June to sell Hartford Funds to Wellington Management. The transaction has an estimated net present value of $1.9 billion and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2027. Hartford Funds will be integrated into Wellington’s US Wealth business.
Swift will move to executive chair after nearly 13 years as chief executive and more than 12 years as chairman.
The Hartford credited Swift with overseeing the company’s transformation into a more focused insurer, including strengthening its financial position, investing in technology and expanding its product offerings and geographic reach.
According to the company, net income return on equity has more than tripled during his tenure, while The Hartford’s share price has increased more than eightfold.
“On behalf of the board, I would like to express our deep gratitude for Chris’ leadership,” Fetter said. “He has made a profound impact on The Hartford, the insurance industry and communities across the country.”
As executive chair, Swift will lead the board, participate in oversight of corporate strategy and act as an adviser to Tooker. He is expected to step down from the executive chair position during the second half of 2027.
“It has been an honor to serve as CEO of this iconic company,” Swift said. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together, elevating The Hartford to new levels of success and sustaining strong performance.
“Mo is an outstanding leader, remarkable person and a trusted industry authority. The strength of our succession planning and depth of talent across the organization gives me the utmost confidence in The Hartford’s bright future.”
