Markel International, a subsidiary of Markel Corporation, has bolstered its global downstream energy team with two new appointments.
James Keens has been named senior downstream energy underwriter in London, and JJ Wong has been named downstream energy underwriter in Singapore.
Both Keens and Wong, who took up their roles in February, will use their deep industry expertise to help Markel’s global clients assess and manage risks associated with the production, storage, and transportation of oil and gas products.
Keens joins Markel from QBE, where he most recently served as senior underwriter within the firm’s natural resources team. In the role, he was responsible for underwriting a wide variety of energy risks for clients with complex operations around the world.
In his new role, Keens will report to Greg Walters, head of downstream at Markel International.
Additionally, Wong started out working as an offshore energy engineer before transitioning into the insurance industry in 2018. Since making that transition, he has built a solid reputation for his technical and commercial capabilities.
Most recently, Wong managed a portfolio of downstream energy business across Asia Pacific at SCOR for more than four years.
At the same time, Wong’s appointment clearly demonstrates Markel’s plans to expand its specialist underwriting capabilities and energy portfolio within Asia Pacific Region.
Walters, commented on the appointments: “James and JJ’s appointments exemplify the growth of Markel’s global energy underwriting capabilities. Their arrival from highly respected peers demonstrates our ability to attract top-notch industry talent with exceptional experience. Their specialised expertise will undoubtedly enhance the value we offer to our energy clients and brokers in their respective regions, further solidifying our commitment to delivering unparalleled service and solutions.”
