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Markel Insurance Leadership Changes

Markel Insurance, a key player within the Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), recently revealed significant leadership appointments in its US Wholesale and Specialty division. This strategic initiative aims to refine its structure to better cater to the diverse demands of wholesale and retail distribution channels. By consolidating the previous six US wholesale and two US retail regions into four integrated areas, Markel seeks to promote growth, streamline operations, and strengthen connections with partners and customers.

Wendy Houser, President of Wholesale and Specialty, emphasized the importance of simplicity in specialty insurance, stating, “Simplicity wins in the specialty insurance business.” She believes that this new structure will expedite growth by enhancing Markel’s ability to deliver top-tier insurance solutions to its partners and clients.

Expanded Leadership Roles

With this new organizational framework, Markel has appointed several leaders to take charge of the four designated regions: West, Central, Northeast, and Southeast.

1. Brian Gray - As the Regional President for the West, Brian brings 22 years of experience with Markel, having previously served in this role for the last eight years. His new responsibilities include overseeing both the wholesale and retail sectors across the West region.

2. Mimi Fiske - Now leading the Central region, Mimi has been with Markel for 11 years and previously directed the company’s former Midwest region. In her expanded role, she will cover a broader geographic area and a wider scope for both wholesale and retail channels.

3. Sal Pollaro - Appointed as the Regional President for the Northeast region, Sal has dedicated 16 years to Markel, most recently serving as Executive Underwriting Officer for Professional Liability. His new role entails managing the wholesale and retail operations within this expanded region.

4. Hollis Zyglocke - Taking charge of the Southeast region, Hollis has been part of Markel for seven years, previously overseeing the Mid-Atlantic region. Her enhanced role provides her with broader geographic oversight and responsibilities in wholesale and retail sectors.

Additional Strategic Appointments

Moreover, Markel has made three significant additional appointments:

• - Matt Huels has been named Chief Growth Officer for US Wholesale and Specialty, coming from a role as the Regional President for the West Retail Region. He will work directly under Wendy Houser to foster growth in the division.
• - Jim Hinchley is appointed as the President of Workers Compensation and Small Commercial Package, having joined Markel in 2024 as Chief Retail Officer.
• - Scott Whitehead advances to Executive Underwriting Officer for Casualty after serving in various underwriting roles for 26 years, most recently managing the Markel Insurtech sector.

Wendy Houser stated, “Brian, Hollis, Matt, Mimi, Sal, Scott, and Jim are proven leaders at Markel. They motivate their teams and possess the expertise necessary to effectively serve our clients and support profitable growth. These changes will fortify our leadership in the core US insurance sector and enhance our aspirational journey towards becoming a market leader.”

About Markel

Markel Insurance is recognized globally as a premier specialty insurer, committed to a people-first approach. Through its operations within Markel Group Inc. (NYSE: MKL), the company utilizes a wide range of capabilities and expertise to tailor intelligent solutions for complex specialty insurance needs. The strong relationships fostered with colleagues, brokers, and clients are what truly set Markel apart in the industry.