Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc., has appointed James Howell as Senior War and Terrorism Underwriter, effective immediately.
Howell holds nearly a decade of specialised experience in terrorism underwriting, having most recently served as Senior Underwriter for Terrorism and Political Violence at AXIS Capital.
Before joining AXIS, he was an Exposure Analyst at Argenta Group for two years, working across the Terrorism and Cargo & Specie sub-teams, and began his career in the Lloyd’s market.
In his new role at Markel, Howell will be responsible for maintaining and developing underwriting policies, as well as key broker relationships.
According to the firm, he’ll collaborate with the organisation’s Management, Claims, Actuarial and Product Development departments, ensuring clients continue to receive “best-in-class” coverage, while driving further profitable growth across the War and Terrorism portfolio.
Based in London, Howell will also reportedly mentor and lead on the War and Terrorism product line-specific training for underwriters.
Chloe Gordge, Head of Terrorism – London at Markel International, and to whom Howell will report, commented, “We’re thrilled to welcome James to our War and Terrorism team in London. His appointment comes at a pivotal time for the war and terrorism market, where rising geopolitical tensions are driving increasingly complex threats and client demand.
“James’s strong track record in the Terrorism and Political Violence (PV) underwriting space will be invaluable as we continue to deliver first-class results for our clients, who are navigating an increasingly volatile geopolitical environment.”
