Merchants Insurance Group Appoints Laurie Brinkerhoff as Vice President of Human Resources
Merchants Insurance Group has announced the appointment of Laurie Brinkerhoff as Vice President of Human Resources, effective immediately. In this role, Brinkerhoff will lead the company’s human resources strategy, including talent acquisition, employee engagement, leadership development, and organizational effectiveness initiatives across Merchants’ corporate and regional offices.
Brinkerhoff brings over 25 years of human resources experience to the position. For the past decade, she has served in multiple HR leadership roles at Calspan, most recently as Director of Human Resources. During her tenure, she helped drive organizational change and growth across multiple business units, developing people-focused strategies that supported both employee development and business performance.
Brinkerhoff will succeed Kelly Julius, who retires in December 2025 after 17 years with Merchants. Julius has served as Vice President of Human Resources since 2015.
“We are thrilled to announce Laurie’s appointment as our new Vice President of Human Resources,” said Charles E. Makey, III, President and Chief Executive Officer of Merchants Insurance Group. “Her leadership, strategic insight, and deep commitment to our culture and colleagues make her the ideal successor to the role as Kelly Julius retires after years of dedicated service.”
A certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR), Brinkerhoff holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Phoenix. Her career has been defined by a deep commitment to fostering inclusive, high-performing workplace cultures that align with organizational values and goals.
“I’m honored to join Merchants Insurance Group and grateful for the opportunity to partner with our employees and leaders as we continue shaping the company’s success through its people,” said Brinkerhoff. “Merchants’ 107-year history of excellence and integrity is a testament to the strength of its culture, and I’m deeply committed to building on that legacy by fostering an environment of growth, collaboration, and engagement.”
A lifelong Western New Yorker, Brinkerhoff resides in Orchard Park with her husband and two daughters.
“Laurie’s extensive experience and people-first approach make her an outstanding addition to our leadership team,” said Makey. “Her proven ability to align human resources strategy with organizational goals will be instrumental as we continue to invest in our employees and strengthen our company culture.”
