BREAKING: Markel International has just announced the appointment of Tom Hillier as Chief Underwriting Officer (CUO), pending regulatory approval. This strategic move comes alongside a major restructuring of its international operations, aimed at enhancing growth and efficiency.
Effective immediately, Hillier will lead underwriting strategy across Markel’s global divisions. With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, he was previously the Managing Director of Specialty at Markel, where he established the new Specialty practice in 2023. His extensive background includes key roles at Brit Insurance, where he focused on enhancing underwriting performance.
This restructuring will see Markel International transition from two divisions—Wholesale and National Markets—to five distinct business units: Asia-Pacific, Canada, Europe, London Market (which includes Marine & Energy, PFR & Cyber, and Specialty), and the UK. These changes are set to simplify decision-making and sharpen customer focus, aligning with Markel’s ambition to strengthen its market position.
Andrew McMellin, President of Markel International, emphasized the importance of Hillier’s appointment: “Tom’s leadership will ensure we drive underwriting excellence and deepen partnerships with brokers and MGAs. This structural shift is crucial for our long-term success.”
The restructuring will also result in the elimination of the Wholesale and National Markets Managing Director roles, leading to the departure of Henrik Bjørnstad at year’s end. McMellin expressed gratitude for Bjørnstad’s contributions over his decade-long tenure at Markel.
Markel International will soon begin the search for a Managing Director for the newly created London Market business, which will consolidate its three product areas under one leadership team. This initiative is designed to leverage Markel’s strong presence in Lloyd’s and the London Market.
As Markel moves forward with these significant changes, the focus remains on creating scalable frameworks that allow each business unit to operate independently while ensuring alignment with overall corporate goals. The appointment of Hillier and the restructuring mark a pivotal moment for Markel International as it positions itself for future growth in an increasingly competitive market.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
