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Henderson Brothers Announces Executive Leadership Transition and New Employee Shareholders

Posted January 16, 2026 Company News
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PITTSBURGH, Pa. — Jan 16, 2026 — Henderson Brothers, Inc., a 133-year-old, family-owned insurance and financial consulting firm headquartered in Pittsburgh, announced executive leadership appointments, a planned leadership transition, and the expansion of its employee ownership program as part of its long-standing succession strategy focused on leadership excellence, continuity, and long-term independence.

These decisions reflect Henderson Brothers’ commitment to remaining independent while continuing to invest in internal leadership development, client service, and future growth.

Leadership Transitions and Ownership Continuity

Executive Leadership Appointments

As part of this transition:

  • Dan Coast, current Managing Director of Property & Casualty, will become President of Henderson Brothers
  • Thomas B. Grealish, current President & CEO and Chairman, will continue as CEO and assume the role of Executive Chairman
  • Daniel P. Grealish, Sr., current Executive Chairman, will transition to Chairman Emeritus

Dan Coast is a veteran employee with nearly two decades of experience at Henderson Brothers, joining the company in 2006. He has played a key role in driving growth, accountability, collaboration, and profitability. Over his tenure, Dan has developed a deep understanding of Henderson Brothers’ full suite of practices and integrated approach to client service. He earned a B.S. in Management, Marketing and Entrepreneurship from Duquesne University.

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“Because we are committed to remaining independent, it was essential that we select a leader with a proven track record who shares our vision and values,” said Thomas B. Grealish, CEO and Executive Chairman, Henderson Brothers. “Dan is exceptionally well-suited for this position, bringing a steady demeanor and thoughtful leadership as he navigates clients through complex situations and empowers his colleagues. He consistently leads with assurance, transparency, and genuine concern for both clients and team members. Our family, our leadership, and Board of Directors were unanimous in our decision to appoint Dan as President, and we are confident he will lead us successfully into the future.”

Leadership Continuity and Ongoing Roles

In his revised roles, Thomas B. Grealish will continue to guide the firm’s strategic vision and overall direction. As Chairman Emeritus, Daniel P. Grealish, Sr. will remain actively engaged with the firm by maintaining key client relationships and continuing his philanthropic leadership within the community.

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Throughout his tenure as President & CEO, Thomas B. Grealish has been instrumental in shaping Henderson Brothers’ enduring culture of independence, leadership excellence, and values-driven decision-making. His legacy is defined by a steadfast commitment to guiding the firm’s strategic vision and fostering a strong sense of community, entrepreneurship, and service. As he continues as CEO and assumes the role of Executive Chairman, Tom will remain a guiding force, ensuring the company’s ongoing success and dedication to its core principles while mentoring the next generation of leaders.

Additional leadership updates include:

  • Pete Horne will continue as General Counsel and transition to Chief Operating Officer
  • Sara Bianco, currently Manager of Client Services, has been appointed Managing Director of Property & Casualty
  • Daniel W. Grealish will continue to serve as Director of Finance, representing the third generation of the Grealish family.

These appointments reflect the depth and strength of Henderson Brothers’ leadership bench.

Learn More about Henderson Brothers »

Employee Ownership and Long-Term Independence

The company announced the expansion of its equity program for current employees after the initial rollout out of its long-term internal perpetuation plan in 2024. With the new employee shareholders added in 2025, the total now stands at 33. Looking ahead, the company plans to continue expanding the equity opportunity for current and future employees, creating a progressive and balanced capital structure that supports sustained investment and ensures continued operational and strategic control.

These changes and long-term ownership strategy are announced as Henderson Brothers recently expanded into Central Ohio. The firm is currently the largest independent, family-owned insurance agency in the region, serving thousands of personal, commercial, retirement, and employee benefits clients. Henderson Brothers employs approximately 85 employees across the northeastern U.S.

“Our future is exciting, our potential is limitless,” Thomas B. Grealish said. “As we grow and evolve, we remain anchored by our legacy and culture of entrepreneurship, world-class customer service, and our deep sense of community and family.”

“I am incredibly proud of the leadership team we’ve built and the future ahead,” said Daniel P. Grealish, Sr. “This transition reflects the strength of our people and our commitment to thoughtful, values-driven leadership.”

Commitment to Clients and Core Services

Henderson Brothers’ leadership transition reinforces its long-standing commitment to serving clients through integrated expertise across its core service lines, including financial wellness, business insurance, and employee benefits. The firm’s client advocacy model and personalized service approach remain unchanged, with leadership continuity ensuring stability across all operations.

By developing leaders from within, Henderson Brothers continues to preserve its independence while aligning leadership strategy with the evolving needs of individuals, businesses, and organizations it serves.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, Henderson Brothers remains focused on its long-term commitment to independence, leadership excellence, and values-driven decision-making. The leadership transition reflects the firm’s intentional succession planning approach, designed to ensure continuity while positioning the organization for future growth.

With a strong leadership team in place and continued investment in people, ownership, and infrastructure, Henderson Brothers is well-positioned to build on its 133-year legacy. The firm will continue to serve clients through its integrated expertise in business insurance, employee benefits, financial consulting, and retirement planning while remaining anchored by its culture of entrepreneurship, community involvement, and personalized service.