Markel Insurance, the insurance operation within Markel Group Inc., has appointed Jamie Smith as London Underwriting Manager – US Cyber Lead, effective immediately.
He will be based in London and report directly to Dan Fox, Head of Cyber at Markel International. This appointment aligns with the insurer’s long-term strategic plan of investing in specialist talent within its cyber business.
In his new role, Smith will be responsible for the US Cyber segment of Markel’s London Market Cyber portfolio and work closely with actuarial teams on portfolio analysis and strategic planning to drive growth.
Additionally, his remit will include leading broker engagement, overseeing pipeline management, and supporting the ongoing enhancement of underwriting policies.
The role requires Smith to collaborate across the business, including the insurer’s London Market Claims team, to support client engagement, identify business development opportunities, and monitor claims trends to inform underwriting strategy and coverage for policyholders.
Smith has over a decade of industry experience, specialising in cyber and technology errors and omissions (E&O) risks within the London market.
Most recently, he spent four years as a Senior Cyber Underwriter at Arch Insurance International. He has previously held underwriting roles at Barbican Insurance Group and CFC Underwriting.
Simultaneously, Smith will mentor junior underwriters in the London Cyber and Technology Professional Indemnity (PI) underwriting team, and help improve operational effectiveness.
Fox commented on the appointment, “The US cyber market is complex and presents fast-evolving opportunities. With cyber consistently cited as a top priority for businesses globally, including in Aon’s recent Global Risk Management Survey, it is essential that we have the right expertise to support our clients in navigating this dynamic risk landscape. I am delighted to welcome Jamie to our London Cyber team.
“He brings deep technical expertise, strong broker relationships and a proven track record of profitable portfolio management. His experience will be invaluable, not only as we seek to expand into the US Cyber & Technology PI market, but also as we continue to deliver tailored and innovative solutions, underpinned by disciplined underwriting.”
