CHICAGO - Kemper Corporation (NYSE:KMPR) announced the appointment of Stephen J. McAnena as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, according to a press release statement issued today. The leadership change comes as the company’s stock trades near its 52-week low of $27.68, down 55% over the past year. Despite the challenging period, InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock is undervalued at current levels, with the company maintaining its dividend for 37 consecutive years and offering a 4.6% yield.
McAnena will also join Kemper’s Board of Directors. Tom Evans, who served as Interim CEO, will return to his role as Executive Vice President, Secretary, and General Counsel.
McAnena has more than 30 years of experience in the insurance industry across property and casualty, group benefits, life, and annuity sectors. He most recently served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Horace Mann.
The company also announced the appointment of Anthony J. DeSantis to its Board of Directors, effective June 1. DeSantis has more than 40 years of insurance industry experience, including expertise in personal and commercial lines, non-standard auto, and distribution channels. He has held senior leadership roles at American Family, The General, Farmers, and AIG.
"We are pleased to welcome Steve to Kemper," said Gerry Laderman, Chairman of the Board. "Following a thoughtful and rigorous search process, the Board is confident Steve brings the experience and leadership needed to help Kemper execute on its priorities, strengthen performance, and create long-term value for our shareholders, employees, customers, and communities." Investors can access 10 additional InvestingPro Tips and comprehensive analysis through the platform’s detailed Pro Research Report.
Laderman thanked Evans for his leadership as Interim CEO and noted the company navigated industry-wide headwinds across its core markets during his tenure.
"I am honored to join Kemper at this important point in the company’s journey," McAnena said.
Kemper has approximately $12 billion in assets and serves over 4.5 million policies through approximately 24,000 agents and brokers.
In other recent news, Kemper Corporation announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.32 per share. This dividend is set to be paid on June 2, 2026, to shareholders who are on record as of May 18, 2026. In addition to this financial update, Kemper has completed the sale of its property and casualty distribution operation to Confie. The transaction includes Newins Insurance Agency Holdings, LLC, which operates under several brand names across various states. This operation was originally acquired by Kemper as part of its American Access Insurance Company transaction in 2021. These developments mark significant steps in Kemper’s ongoing business activities.
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