In a move that reflects steady growth and a clear vision for the future, Ames & Gough has announced a key leadership change. Matthew B. Gough, who has been with the Washington, DC-based specialty insurance brokerage since 2001, has stepped into the role of chief executive officer. This shift, effective as of January 2026, comes as part of a carefully planned leadership strategy rather than a sudden change.
Ames & Gough has built a strong reputation since its founding in 1992 by Marshall Ames and Gary Gough. The firm focuses on serving architects, engineers, law firms, associations, and nonprofits, with a team of nearly 70 professionals working across 45 states. Matthew Gough, who had been serving as president since 2020, will now lead the company as CEO, while Thomas Marchetti takes on the role of president, overseeing daily operations. This division of responsibilities highlights the company’s intention to sharpen its focus on both strategy and execution.
Gough shared that the idea to split these roles was influenced by advice he received early in his presidency—to prepare for succession. His initial plan was to concentrate on long-term strategy, but the unexpected challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic required him to dive into operational matters earlier than anticipated. As the firm grew, it became clear that having a dedicated president and CEO was necessary to handle both the strategic direction and daily management effectively.
Despite industry trends pushing many firms toward mergers and acquisitions, Ames & Gough remains committed to staying independent. Gough explained that, while offers from strategic buyers do come in regularly, the shareholders value building something unique and choose to stay true to their specialist roots. The firm differentiates itself by focusing on specific sectors and maintaining deep expertise rather than becoming a generalist.
The insurance landscape for architects and engineers is becoming tougher. Rising claims, bigger settlements, and social inflation are driving up premiums and making risk management more complex. Gough believes these challenges are exactly where Ames & Gough can offer the most value to their clients.
On the technology front, the company is moving carefully. Rather than rushing into new tools like artificial intelligence, it opts for thoughtful investments that support its work. Leadership development is also a top priority, with a long-standing focus on mentoring and growing talent internally, ensuring the company’s success over the long haul.
Looking ahead, Gough’s measure of success goes beyond revenue numbers. He wants Ames & Gough to remain a growing, independent firm that holds fast to its core values. “Doing what’s right for the client” has always been the company’s principle, and as Gough puts it, if they continue to follow that simple rule, everything else will fall into place.
In short, Ames & Gough’s leadership change is more than just a shuffle—it’s a sign that the company is rooted in steady growth, deep expertise, and a clear commitment to staying independent in a changing insurance world.