Markel unit announces changes in U.S. wholesale and specialty

A Markel Group Inc. unit announced Monday that it was realigning its U.S. wholesale and specialty divisions regionally and appointing new leadership.

Markel Insurance said it is simplifying its structure from six U.S. wholesale and two U.S. retail regions to four integrated regions.

West regional President Brian Gray’s role expanded geographically, and he will oversee the wholesale and retail business in the region, Markel said.

Mimi Fiske was named central region president. Ms. Fiske previously led the Midwest region and will now oversee an expanded area.

Sal Pollaro, who most recently was executive underwriting officer for professional liability, was named regional president for the expanded Northeast region.

Hollis Zyglocke was appointed regional president for the Southeast region after previously serving as president of Markel’s former Mid-Atlantic region.

Markel also announced the appointment of Matt Huels to chief growth officer for U.S. wholesale and specialty. Mr. Huels, previously regional president for the west retail region, will report to Wendy Houser.

Jim Hinchley was named president, workers compensation and small commercial package after serving as chief retail officer. He will report to Alex Martin, president of programs and solutions.

Markel said it appointed Scott Whitehead executive underwriting officer for casualty. Mr. Whitehead was most recently senior managing director of Markel Insurtech and will report to Chief Underwriting Officer Mark Schauss.