Markel Insurance, part of the Markel Group, has unveiled a divisional restructure of its US and Bermuda operations and leadership changes, with an immediate effect.
The reorganisation follows the recent appointment of Simon Wilson as CEO and is part of the company’s strategy to enhance local empowerment and accountability.
Go deeper with GlobalData
The group’s US and Bermuda operations, formerly called Markel Specialty, have now been split into two divisions.
The US Wholesale and Specialty division will oversee all US specialty insurance business through wholesale and retail channels, led by Wendy Houser as president.
Houser has a 16-year history with Markel, including roles as chief wholesale officer and chief territory officer.
The Programmes and Solutions division will focus on alliances, Bermuda, insurtech businesses, personal lines, programmes, small commercial general package, surety and worker’s compensation.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataAlex Martin, who has worked for 19 years at Markel and was president of Markel Specialty, will be the president of this new division.
Further leadership appointments include Andrew McMellin as president, International, succeeding Simon Wilson.
McMellin joined Markel in early 2022 and has more than 35 years of experience in specialty insurance.
Glenn Harris has been named chief commercial officer, bringing 15 years of experience in business development at Markel to the role.
Most recently, he was managing executive, global distribution strategies and business development.
Lastly, Henry Gardener assumes the position of chief risk officer, tasked with fostering a risk culture that supports Markel’s business objectives.
Gardener has been with the company for 11 years, most recently as senior managing director of legal and chief risk officer, International.
Wilson noted: “The best way to profitably grow a specialised and diversified business like ours is to equip and empower our local experts to serve the needs of the customers that they know best.
“These changes are an initial step to ensure that we have the divisional structure and leaders in place to do just that.”
The latest move comes on the heels of Markel’s agreement to acquire marine managing general agent MECO Group.
