Markel Insurance announces restructuring, new leadership

Markel Insurance, a unit of Markel Group Inc., announced Tuesday that it has restructured its U.S. and Bermuda operations and appointed new leadership.

The operations, formerly known as Markel Specialty, have been divided into two divisions: U.S. Wholesale and Specialty and Programs and Solutions.

The insurer said the U.S. Wholesale and Specialty division is responsible for all U.S. specialty business flowing from its wholesale and retail channels.

The Program and Solutions division includes Markel’s Bermuda, insurtech, personal lines, small business and workers compensation businesses.

The restructuring follows the March 17 appointment of Simon Wilson as Markel Insurance’s CEO.

Markel said Tuesday that Wendy Houser has been appointed president of U.S. Wholesale and Specialty. She has been with Markel for 16 years and previously served as chief wholesale officer for Markel Specialty. Before that, she was chief territory officer for the unit.

Alex Martin, former president of Markel Specialty, will lead the Programs and Solutions division as president. He has been with Markel for 19 years and has held various leadership positions.

Markel Insurance also announced that it appointed Andrew McMellin as president of its international unit, replacing Mr. Wilson. Mr. McMellin joined Markel Insurance in 2022 and most recently led its international wholesale team.

Glenn Harris, managing executive of global distribution strategies and business development, was appointed chief commercial officer. Mr. Harris has been with Markel for 15 years.

Henry Gardener was appointed chief risk officer after serving as the managing director of international legal and chief risk officer. He has been with Markel for 11 years.