First American Financial Corporation (NYSE: FAF), a leading provider of title, settlement, and risk mitigation services for real estate transactions and a recognized pioneer in advancing digital transformation across its industry, announced that Jeffrey J. Dailey has been appointed to its board of directors. The appointment brings to the board a seasoned executive whose extensive leadership background and deep strategic experience are expected to support the company’s continued growth and innovation.
Dailey is widely respected across the insurance and financial services sectors for his strategic insight, operational discipline, and ability to lead organizations through transformative change. With over 40 years of experience in the insurance industry, including more than 25 years in executive leadership roles, Dailey has demonstrated consistent success in guiding companies in highly regulated environments while enhancing operational performance, customer service standards, and digital capabilities.
One of Dailey’s most prominent leadership roles was his decade-long tenure as Chief Executive Officer of Farmers Group, Inc., a subsidiary of Zurich Insurance Group. During his time with Farmers, Dailey led the company through a major transformation that prioritized customer-centric service models and the adoption of innovative technologies. His leadership helped modernize the organization’s operations and product offerings while strengthening the company’s competitive position. Notably, Dailey also led the acquisition and integration of MetLife’s property and casualty business, a strategic move that significantly expanded Farmers’ national market position and diversified its product portfolio.
Earlier in his career, Dailey founded Reliant Insurance, where he served as Chief Executive Officer. Under his leadership, the company grew steadily before being acquired by Bristol West Holdings. This entrepreneurial achievement demonstrated Dailey’s capacity not only to manage large organizations but also to build businesses from the ground up, giving him a unique perspective on corporate growth, innovation, and strategic positioning.
Leadership Perspectives
“We are pleased to welcome Jeff to First American’s board,” said Dennis J. Gilmore, Executive Chairman of First American Financial Corporation. “His impressive combination of experience in leadership, operations, and technology-driven innovation at multibillion-dollar insurance businesses enhances the depth and breadth of expertise on our board. Jeff’s perspective will be invaluable as the company continues to lead the digital transformation of the title and settlement industry.”
Gilmore emphasized that Dailey’s proven ability to modernize legacy operating structures and champion customer-focused strategies aligns closely with First American’s long-term growth objectives. The company, which has been investing significantly in digital workflows, automation capabilities, and advanced data analytics, is positioned to benefit from Dailey’s experience in scaling innovation across large enterprise systems.
Board Experience and Education
In addition to his new role at First American, Dailey currently serves on the boards of Verisk Analytics, Inc. and Liberty Mutual Holding Company, both of which operate in data analytics and insurance services sectors where digital transformation plays a central role. His previous board service includes Farmers Group, Inc. and The Institutes, a professional education and research organization supporting risk management and insurance professionals.
Dailey holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, academic credentials that complement his extensive practical leadership experience.
About First American
First American Financial Corporation is one of the most established and respected names in the real estate services sector, with a history that spans more than 135 years. The company provides a wide range of products and services designed to facilitate secure, efficient, and transparent real estate transactions. Its offerings include:
- Title insurance and settlement services for residential and commercial properties
- Risk mitigation and data solutions
- Mortgage subservicing
- Valuation and appraisal services
- Home warranty products
- Banking, trust, and wealth management services
In addition, First American supplies data and analytics solutions to third parties within the title industry and beyond, reinforcing its position as an information and technology leader. The company’s approach integrates deep industry knowledge, advanced proprietary datasets, and modern digital platforms that support both speed and certainty in real estate transactions.
With total revenue of $6.1 billion in 2024, First American delivers its products and services directly and through a network of agents across the United States and in select international markets.
In recognition of its culture and employee experience, First American was named one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For by Great Place to Work® and Fortune Magazine in 2025, marking the tenth consecutive year the company has earned this distinction. This sustained recognition underscores First American’s emphasis on employee development, inclusive culture, and organizational resilience.
Strategic Impact of the Appointment
Dailey’s addition to the board is expected to support First American’s ongoing efforts to expand its technology-enabled workflows, enhance operational efficiency, and continue strengthening customer engagement across both residential and commercial markets. As the industry continues to evolve with shifting economic conditions and rising digital expectations, First American aims to leverage board-level expertise to maintain its leadership position and accelerate strategic growth.
