Preeti Gureja Takes Leadership Role as Chief Risk Officer at Markel Insurance

Preeti Gureja Takes the Helm as Chief Risk Officer at Markel Insurance

On January 12, 2026, Markel Insurance made waves in the financial industry with the announcement of Preeti Gureja's appointment as the Chief Risk Officer, overseeing operations in both the United States and Bermuda. This significant move comes as the company seeks to strengthen its risk management strategies while adhering to its core values and ensuring sustainable growth.

Gureja, who will be reporting to Henry Gardener, Chief Risk Officer of Markel Insurance, is set to lead the risk agenda across the company's insurance operations. Her role will not only involve integrating risk insights into Markel’s planning and decision-making processes but also ensuring a mindful approach to underwriting and capital allocation through thorough analysis and establishing clear risk appetites.

This appointment marks a notable shift in how risk is perceived and implemented at Markel. The organization emphasizes the importance of risk as both a safeguard and an enabler for growth, aligning perfectly with Gureja’s philosophy. Her profound experience in enterprise risk management, accumulated at reputable companies such as Chubb and AIG, positions her as a suitable candidate to lead in this critical area.

At Chubb, Gureja served as Senior Vice President in Enterprise Risk Management, leading a global team and enhancing risk reporting mechanisms to boards, executive management, and various regulators. Her background includes significant contributions towards understanding emerging risks, particularly in areas such as cyber security, climate change, and geopolitical concerns. Before her tenure at Chubb, she contributed to the development of a robust risk framework at AIG, which included overseeing risk appetite, capital planning challenges, and stress-testing protocols.

Henry Gardener expressed his enthusiasm for welcoming Gureja to Markel, highlighting her analytical expertise and practical judgment. He is confident that her leadership will enhance the company's capability to embed risk into every facet of the business, thereby fostering a culture of disciplined reporting and effective regulatory engagement.

Gureja shared her thoughts on her new role, expressing excitement about collaborating with her colleagues to drive a forward-looking analysis that prioritizes risk management in decision-making processes. "By sharpening our use of data and scenarios, we can not only bolster profitability but also strengthen our resilience within the insurance sector," she remarked. This commitment towards aligning empowerment with accountability highlights her intention to cultivate a proactive and informed approach to risk management.

Based in New York, Gureja will play a crucial role in not just preserving Markel's esteemed reputation but also in paving the way for continuous innovation in risk management strategies. The company’s people-first approach, coupled with its dedication to leveraging advanced capabilities for specialized insurance needs, forms the foundation of a future where enterprise risk management thrives under her stewardship. As Markel embarks on this new journey with Preeti Gureja, the insurance group remains poised to face the complexities of the industry with enhanced resilience and foresight.

Moreover, Markel continues to cement its status as a leading global specialty insurer, emphasizing the importance of meaningful relationships built with brokers and clients that set it apart in the competitive landscape. With Gureja’s expertise, Markel is expected to enhance its strategic approach towards risk, ensuring that every decision made contributes to long-term sustainability and safety within the marketplace.