BUFFALO, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Merchants Insurance Group is proud to announce that Charles E. Makey, III, President and Chief Executive Officer, has been named to City & State New York’s 2025 Upstate Power 100. This annual list highlights leaders whose impact, accomplishments, and reach influence economic growth, public policy, and community vitality across Upstate New York. Recipients include influential leaders in government, business, and civic life who are shaping the future of the region.
“It’s an honor to be recognized among those driving progress across New York State,” said Charles Makey. “This elite group is committed to contributing to the strength of New York’s economy and communities. I’m grateful and proud to represent Merchants Insurance Group and to stand alongside so many respected New York leaders who are making a meaningful impact across our state.”
Makey continued: “This distinction reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire Merchants team and our independent agency partners across New York State, from our headquarters in Buffalo to our office on Long Island. Founded in Buffalo in 1918, Merchants Insurance Group is committed to protecting businesses and supporting economic success statewide. I’m proud to lead our 108-year-old New York–based property casualty insurance company as we continue to modernize and create lasting value to insurance consumers across the great state of New York.”
Makey was appointed President in 2021, then President and Chief Executive Officer in 2024. He joined Merchants Insurance Group in 1996 as Director of Sales. Throughout his career at Merchants, Makey has also served as Assistant Vice President/Regional Manager of the company’s New England Regional Office; Vice President and Regional Manager of Merchants’ Central States Strategic Business Center; and Senior Vice President of Insurance Operations.
Since assuming the presidency, Makey has guided Merchants through a period of strong financial performance and strategic innovation. Under his leadership, the company has enhanced its digital capabilities and deepened long-standing partnerships with independent insurance agents, as well as consistently earned recognition as a “Best Place to Work,” among other awards and distinctions. Additionally, Makey actively engages in industry advocacy and professional development across New York and the Northeast. He has also maintained and grown Merchants’ dedication to philanthropy and giving back the local communities the company serves.
City & State New York published its annual Upstate Power 100 list on December 22, 2025. To view the full list, visit https://www.cityandstateny.com/power-lists/2025/12/2025-upstate-power-100/410233/
About Merchants Insurance Group
Founded in downtown Buffalo, New York in 1918, Merchants Insurance Group is a leading regional property and casualty insurance carrier specializing in commercial lines. Merchants partners exclusively with independent insurance agents because they have the expertise to match the company’s portfolio of quality products, and to ensure customers’ assets are properly protected. The large network of Merchants’ independent agent partners spans across Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Vermont.
Contacts
Media Contact:
Katherine Trautwein, [email protected]
