Arch Capital Group has announced that Daniel J. Houston succeeds John M. Pasquesi as Chair of its Board of Directors, following a planned succession process after Pasquesi's decision to step down as Chair.
The transition follows the Board's review of leadership and committee chair roles. Houston also becomes Chair of the Executive Committee.
Houston joined Arch's Board in August 2024. He is the retired Chair of Principal Financial Group and its former president and CEO. He joined Principal in 1984, became president and CEO in 2015 and Chair in 2016, and retired in 2025.
Pasquesi has been Chair since September 2019 and a director since 2001. He remains a director and a member of the Executive Committee and, if nominated, intends to stand for re-election at the 2027 annual general meeting.
"Arch is fortunate to have several experienced directors capable of leading the Board, and Dan is the right person to serve as our next Chair," said Pasquesi.
Houston said: "I am excited to continue to work with Nicolas, his executive team and my fellow directors to help position the Company for continued success."
The Board also made changes to its committees. Brian S. Posner joins the Executive Committee, while remaining on the Compensation and Human Capital Committee and as Chair of the Finance, Investment and Risk Committee. Francis Ebong becomes Chair of the Compensation and Human Capital Committee and stays on the Audit Committee and the Nominating and Governance Committee.
Arch Capital Group, based in Pembroke, Bermuda, provides insurance, reinsurance, and mortgage insurance on a worldwide basis through its wholly owned subsidiaries. The company had approximately $27.3bn in capital at 30 September 2026.
