Jim Morris Joins Lincoln National Corporation Board of Directors
Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE: LNC) today announced the election of James (Jim) Morris to its Board of Directors, effective March 3, 2025. With this appointment, Lincoln expands its Board from ten to eleven directors, reinforcing the company’s commitment to strong governance, industry expertise, and strategic oversight.
Morris, a highly respected veteran of the insurance and financial services industry, brings with him more than 40 years of leadership experience. He retired as Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Pacific Life Insurance Company in April 2022, following a remarkable career that saw him guide the company through significant periods of growth, transformation, and financial success. Prior to leading Pacific Life as CEO beginning in 2007, Morris held a variety of senior management positions of increasing responsibility, including Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice President, and Chief Insurance Officer. His extensive experience across multiple facets of the insurance business, including risk management, operations, and financial planning, makes him a valuable addition to Lincoln’s leadership team.
In addition to his newly appointed role at Lincoln, Morris currently serves on the Board of Directors for Edison International, a Fortune 500 company focused on energy generation and distribution. His experience in board governance, strategic decision-making, and financial oversight is expected to further enhance Lincoln’s ability to drive long-term growth and shareholder value.
Leadership Perspectives on Morris’s Appointment
Ellen Cooper, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Lincoln Financial Group, welcomed Morris to the Board, emphasizing the wealth of knowledge and leadership he brings to the company.
“I am pleased to welcome Jim to Lincoln’s Board and look forward to working with him,” said Cooper. “Jim’s significant background as a leader in the life insurance industry, along with his financial and risk management expertise, will serve Lincoln, our Board, and our shareholders well. His insight will be particularly valuable as we continue to navigate the evolving financial landscape and drive strategic initiatives that position Lincoln for sustained success.”
William Cunningham, Lincoln Financial’s Lead Independent Director, echoed Cooper’s sentiments, emphasizing Morris’s ability to contribute meaningfully to the company’s long-term vision.
“Jim brings significant leadership experience in business, both as an industry executive and as a director, which will be a valuable addition to our Board,” said Cunningham. “His decades of experience in the life insurance sector, coupled with his strong understanding of corporate governance, financial planning, and strategic execution, will strengthen our ability to drive long-term value for our shareholders. I am confident that his leadership will have a meaningful impact on Lincoln’s continued success.”
For Morris, the opportunity to join Lincoln’s Board represents an exciting new chapter in his distinguished career, and he expressed his enthusiasm about contributing to the company’s strategic direction.
“It is an honor to be joining the Board of one of the most iconic companies in the industry,” said Morris. “Lincoln Financial has built a strong reputation for excellence, innovation, and customer-centric service. The expertise and strategic vision of Board and management team are exceptional, and I look forward to contributing to the company’s ongoing success. As the financial services landscape continues to evolve, Lincoln remains well-positioned to provide valuable solutions to individuals, businesses, and institutions. I am excited to be part of this journey.”
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation
Morris’s tenure at Pacific Life was marked by strategic expansion, digital transformation, and a focus on long-term financial stability. Under his leadership, Pacific Life strengthened its market position through innovative product offerings and prudent risk management. His approach to leadership has always emphasized the importance of adaptability, forward-thinking decision-making, and a strong corporate culture, qualities that align well with mission and values.
Beyond his executive roles, Morris has been deeply involved in shaping the broader insurance and financial services industries. He has participated in various industry councils and advisory groups, offering his expertise on regulatory matters, financial sustainability, and risk assessment strategies. His involvement in these areas underscores his deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that insurance providers and financial institutions face in an increasingly complex economic landscape.
Strengthening Lincoln’s Strategic Position
Lincoln Financial Group’s decision to expand its Board with the addition of Morris reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to strong governance and strategic leadership. As an industry leader, Lincoln has continually sought to adapt to market trends, regulatory changes, and shifting consumer expectations. The addition of a seasoned leader like Morris enhancesability to remain agile in an evolving business environment.
Lincoln’s leadership team has identified key areas of focus for the coming years, including digital innovation, customer engagement, and financial performance optimization. Morris’s expertise in these areas, particularly his experience in leveraging technology to enhance customer experience and drive operational efficiency, will provide invaluable insights as Lincoln continues to evolve.
Commitment to Long-Term Shareholder Value
For Lincoln’s investors and stakeholders, Morris’s appointment is expected to bolster confidence in the company’s strategic direction. With a focus on disciplined financial management, responsible growth, and shareholder returns, Board plays a crucial role in shaping the company’s future. By bringing on board an experienced executive with a proven track record of leadership in the insurance and financial sectors, Lincoln demonstrates its dedication to strengthening governance and fostering long-term success.
Morris’s presence on the Board will not only enhance Lincoln’s ability to make informed strategic decisions but also reinforce the company’s commitment to transparency, integrity, and corporate responsibility. His extensive background in regulatory compliance and financial oversight ensures that remains well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern financial landscape while continuing to create value for its shareholders and customers alike.
