Markel International reveals changes to wholesale business

Markel International, the Bermuda-based specialist insurer, has simplified the structure of its wholesale business.

The company has said it is reducing the number of operating divisions from seven to three.

Paul Jenks will lead the marine, energy and property division, which will now encompass the property open market business, led by Dean Pitts. Chris Fenn will lead the marine business, while Julian Samuel will lead the energy business.

James Hastings will lead the specialty and financial lines division, which will now include the trade credit business, led by Ewa Rose and the equine business, led by Juliet Redfern. It will also be responsible for the accident and health business, led by Mike Bridgeman, and the contingency business led by James Leach.  David Sawyer will lead the professional and financial risks business.

The reinsurance division, led by Graeme Scott, will include the casualty treaty business, led by Stuart Hawes, the accident and health treaty business, led by Per Evers Hansen, and the property treaty business, led by Nick James and Nick Hillman.

The change in structure, which is reflected in the operational functions that support the underwriting teams, is designed to best meet the needs of Markel’s broking clients, to improve day to day efficiencies in the running of the business and to support a larger business without adding significant additional cost.

William Stovin, president of Markel International, said: “Our existing divisional structure, established in 2002, isn’t right for the much bigger business we now are. Reflecting what’s best for our broking clients this new, simplified structure makes it easier for them to do business with us across a range of business lines.

“At the same time, it focuses the energies of our front line teams on underwriting, while putting in place a standardised, scalable operating structure capable of supporting a business growing both organically and by acquisition.

“Externally, these changes are good for our brokers, as they will maximise our flexibility to deal with their and their clients’ needs.”