#USA #Atlanta #Markel Group #War and Terrorism #Joshua Watson

Markel Insurance Enhances Its International War and Terrorism Team

On May 14, 2025, Markel Insurance, the insurance arm of Markel Group Inc. trading on NYSE as MKL, announced significant developments aimed at strengthening its International War and Terrorism sector. The company has appointed Joshua Watson as Senior Underwriter for War and Terrorism and Bridget Canderelli as an Underwriting Support Specialist. These strategic appointments are designed to foster further profitable growth in this specialized area of insurance, which caters to complex risks arising from geopolitical tensions and conflicts worldwide.

Key Appointments

Joshua Watson brings over 14 years of specialized experience in the insurance industry, particularly in the realms of cyber, terrorism, and political violence. Watson, in his newly appointed role, will oversee the underwriting of intricate risks associated with the company’s Stand-Alone Terrorism, Terrorism Liability, Strikes, Riots and Civil Commotion (SRCC), and Active Assailant product suite. His responsibilities also include promoting these crucial offerings to brokers while ensuring exceptional service and engagement with industry partners.

Watson will be based at Markel’s office in Alpharetta, Georgia. Alongside him, Bridget Canderelli will serve as an Underwriting Support Specialist, operating from the company’s Richmond, Virginia office. Canderelli’s role will involve administrative support for Watson and the broader International War and Terrorism team. Her tasks include timely processing and submission of essential documentation while upholding high service standards for brokers and stakeholders.

Industry Insights and Objectives

Andrew Umphress, Head of Terrorism for North America at Markel, spoke about the increasing complexities within the war and terrorism market. He noted, “This sector is being influenced by numerous geopolitical factors that are continuously reshaping exposure levels and insurance requirements across the globe.”

Umphress expressed enthusiasm for Watson’s appointment, citing his extensive broker network and cross-functional expertise as valuable assets that can facilitate the sustainable expansion of Markel’s portfolio in high-risk territories. Watson’s experience extends beyond pure underwriting; his previous role as Vice President at Brown & Brown Risk Solutions involved managing a virtual office focused on malicious acts, which included terrorism and political violence.

The Importance of Teamwork

Umphress also highlighted the significance of collaboration within Markel’s expert underwriting team. He stated, “Our objective is to drive further profitable growth, ensuring clients receive tailored coverage and high service levels, especially during these volatile times.” This ethos underscores Markel's commitment to delivering critical insurance solutions that meet today’s unique challenges.

Moreover, Canderelli’s drive and commitment, despite being relatively new to the market, have been noted as exceptional. Umphress praised her potential to contribute positively to the superior service that Markel's broker network globally values.

About Markel Insurance

Markel Insurance stands as a prominent global specialty insurer, distinguished by its people-first approach. As part of the Markel Group, the insurance operations harness a wide range of capabilities to create intelligent solutions for intricate specialty insurance needs. Markel's success is attributed to the strong relationships its team builds with colleagues, brokers, and clients, setting it apart in the competitive insurance landscape.

In conclusion, the recent appointments at Markel Insurance represent a strategic move to enhance its offerings in a rapidly evolving marketplace, addressing the critical needs associated with international war and terrorism insurance. Through experienced leadership and a commitment to exceptional service, Markel is poised for continued growth in this vital sector.