BOSTON -- Jan. 10, 2012 -- Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Boston today announced the appointment of James D. Gallagher, executive vice president and board member at John Hancock Financial Services, as its chairman of the board of trustees. Gallagher succeeds Jeffrey Kaneb, vice president at HP Hood LLC, who completed two terms as chairman at the end of 2011.

"We are grateful to Jeff Kaneb for his many years of dedicated service to Catholic Charities, and look forward to his continued involvement in the organization," said Deborah Kincade Rambo, president of Catholic Charities. "Jim is a passionate and active board member, and we are so pleased he will take over as chairman."

Gallagher, a resident of Milton, has served on the board of trustees of Catholic Charities since 2008. His role at John Hancock and its parent company, Manulife Financial Corporation, spans global compliance as well as government, public and community relations. Gallagher joined Manulife USA in Boston in 1994 as general counsel having previously served as legal counsel with Prudential Insurance Company and the U.S. government.

"I am honored to have the trust of my fellow board members and the leadership of Catholic Charities as together we continue the organization's important work in communities throughout Greater Boston," said Gallagher. "The demand for the programs and services of Catholic Charities has never been greater and we are committed and focused on doing everything we can to support those in need."

Gallagher officially assumed the post of chairman of the board of trustees on Jan. 1.