Collin Sim Appointed as Markel's First Casualty Underwriter in Singapore
In a significant development for the insurance industry in Asia, Markel Insurance has appointed Collin Sim as its first dedicated Casualty Underwriter in Singapore. This strategic move, announced on June 26, 2025, aims to bolster Markel's presence in the casualty insurance market within Southeast Asia and the larger Asian region.
Markel, a prominent player in the global specialty insurance space under the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), is looking to expand its casualty underwriting capabilities and improve services for brokers and clients. In this newly created role, Sim is tasked with developing strategic relationships, managing risk portfolios, and ensuring that all operations adhere to Markel's established underwriting principles.
Collin Sim arrives at Markel with over 20 years of robust underwriting experience across Asia. Previously, she served as the Assistant Vice President at Allied World, where she was responsible for overseeing the General Casualty business in various Southeast Asian markets. Before her tenure at Allied World, Sim enjoyed a successful 17-year stint at Gen Re, where she significantly contributed to the establishment of casualty facultative books across multiple regions, such as Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, and China.
Welcoming Collin to Markel, Wanshi Lin, Head of Singapore, expressed confidence in her ability to navigate the complexities of the Asian casualty insurance landscape. "Collin's extensive expertise and insight into the market are invaluable as we seek to enhance our operations in the region. This appointment reinforces our commitment to developing strong underwriting capabilities and delivering exceptional service to our partners across the Asia Pacific," Lin commented.
Christian Stobbs, Managing Director - Asia Pacific, echoed this sentiment, stating, "This appointment marks a key milestone in our growth strategy for the region. Collin’s demonstrable success in building profitable casualty portfolios, combined with her comprehensive network in the Asian insurance market, positions her as the ideal candidate to spearhead our casualty practice in Singapore."
Markel Insurance stands out in the specialty insurance world by adopting a people-first approach, a philosophy underlined by its emphasis on fostering deep relationships with colleagues, brokers, and clients. With this latest appointment, Markel aims not only to enhance its casualty underwriting capabilities but also to deliver tailored solutions that meet the complex needs of its clientele.
As the insurance market in Southeast Asia continues to evolve, driven by innovation and changing risk landscapes, Markel’s strategic investment in leadership like Collin Sim illustrates the company's commitment to remaining at the forefront of industry developments. Her role could usher in new opportunities for Markel, reinforcing its position as a leading specialty insurer while solidifying its relationships throughout the region.
With Collin Sim's wealth of experience and strategic vision, the future looks promising for Markel’s casualty underwriting division, laying the groundwork for significant growth and enhanced service delivery in the vibrant Asian market.
In conclusion, the appointment of Collin Sim is not just a strategic move for Markel Insurance; it is a testament to the company’s commitment to expanding its reach and capabilities across Asia. As the casualty landscape grows more complex, Markel is well-positioned to adapt, innovate, and excel in serving its clients under the guidance of experienced professionals like Sim.