Global carrier Markel Insurance has appointed Danny O’Donoghue as the Head of Fine Art & Specie, effective immediately, based in London, reporting to Dan McCarthy, Director of Marine at Markel International.
In his new role, O’Donoghue will lead the strategic and sustainable expansion of Markel’s Fine Art & Specie portfolio to further solidify its market position in London.
He will identify, assess, and underwrite complex risks across four key areas, including Fine Art, Specie, Jewellers Block and Cash in Transit, while supporting underwriters in his team with their professional development, explains the firm.
Additionally, O’Donoghue will foster broker relationships and work closely with Markel’s Claims and Actuarial functions. Furthermore, he’ll identify collaborative opportunities across the business’ international Fine Art & Specie teams to enhance broker service levels and drive further profitable growth.
He has over 15 years of underwriting experience, of which 13 were spent in Fine Art & Specie insurance. In the past, O’Donoghue has served at Talbot as Head of Fine Art & Specie, where he led global strategy and execution for Fine Art & Specie across Lloyd’s Syndicate 1183 and AIG company platforms. Before that, he was with Aspen for over a decade as a Senior Fine Art & Specie Underwriter.
McCarthy commented, “Rising asset values, a surge in high-profile thefts and more frequent natural catastrophes are creating new risks while intensifying existing exposures for galleries, jewellers and private collectors. Danny’s achievements are underpinned by an entrepreneurial mindset, which will be critical as we continue to deliver best-in-class underwriting services, support and standards to our brokers and clients.
“We’re delighted to have someone of Danny’s caliber join Markel’s Fine Art & Specie team here in London. With his significant expertise in managing and scaling large Fine Art Specie portfolios, we’re confident he’ll be able to take ours to new heights, elevating our leadership position in the London Market.”
O’Donoghue added, “I’m delighted to be joining Markel in my new role as Head of Fine Art & Specie. Opportunities like this don’t come around often, but Markel really stood out to me. I saw strong cultural alignment, a clear and unified proposition and a well-defined strategic direction – all of which I believe are essential building blocks to continue growing the team and portfolio for years to come.
“I’m excited to drive the continued expansion of Markel’s lead specialist capabilities across the Fine Art & Specie market and support our brokers and clients across an evolving and complex risk landscape.”
