Markel Insurance has announced new leadership changes in its U.S. wholesale and specialty division. The company is streamlining its operations from eight regions to four, aiming for a more integrated approach. This restructuring includes the creation of the West, Central, Northeast, and Southeast regions.
Brian Gray will head the West region. He has been with Markel for 22 years and has served as the regional president for the West for the past eight years. In his new role, he will oversee both wholesale and retail operations in the area.
Mimi Fiske takes on the role of regional president for the Central region. With 11 years at Markel, she previously led the Midwest region. Her new position expands her responsibilities geographically and in terms of scope.
Sal Pollaro has been appointed to lead the Northeast region. He brings 16 years of experience with Markel, having most recently worked as the executive underwriting officer for professional liability.
Hollis Zyglocke will head the Southeast region. She has been with the company for seven years and previously led the Mid-Atlantic region. Her new role also includes expanded oversight of wholesale and retail operations.
In addition to these regional appointments, Markel has made several other key leadership changes. Matt Huels has been named chief growth officer for U.S. wholesale and specialty. He has been with the company for a decade and was previously the regional president for the West retail region.
Jim Hinchley is now the president of workers compensation and small commercial package. He joined Markel in 2024 as chief retail officer. Lastly, Scott Whitehead has been appointed executive underwriting officer for casualty. With 26 years at Markel, he has held various underwriting leadership roles.
These changes reflect Markel’s strategy to simplify its structure and enhance its service offerings in the competitive insurance market.