Merchants Insurance Group Promotes Bob Perno to Director of Sales and Marketing
Merchants Insurance Group has announced the promotion of Bob Perno to Director of Sales and Marketing, effective October 27, 2025.
Perno brings more than two decades of experience at Merchants to his new leadership role, having served in a variety of positions across underwriting, sales, and regional operations. He joined the company in 2001 as a Personal Lines Underwriter before moving into Home Office Sales as a Corporate Sales Specialist. Bob has also held the role of Assistant Regional Manager in Merchants’ Western Strategic Business Center, where he managed operations in Michigan and Ohio.
For the past seven years, Perno has served as Corporate Sales Manager, leading many of the company’s corporate sales projects, including Agency Compensation Programs, Producer Training School, and Territory Manager training.
“Bob has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to driving sales growth and deepening customer relationships,” said Charles E. Makey, III, President and Chief Executive Officer of Merchants Insurance Group. “Under Bob’s leadership, the corporate sales team has launched innovative client engagement initiatives, enhanced our agent training, and positioned Merchants as a trusted partner in the industry. I am very confident he will continue to drive profitable growth with our independent agency partners in his new, expanded role.”
As Director of Sales and Marketing, Perno will oversee both departments, bringing together two core functions of the company to align strategy, enhance brand visibility, and expand Merchants’ market presence.
“Merchants has been my home away from home for the past 24 years. I am appreciative and grateful for everything the company has done for me and my family,” said Bob Perno. “The culture and amazing team are what make Merchants the company I’m so proud to be part of every day. I passionately look forward to continuing my Merchants career in my new role.”
Perno holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and dual master’s degrees in Finance and Strategic Marketing. He is also a recent graduate of Merchants’ inaugural Leadership Development Program class.
