Markel Group Inc. has announced the promotion of Matthew Brooke to Senior Underwriter for War and Terrorism. This change takes effect immediately. Brooke will report to Chloe Gordge, who leads the War and Terrorism division at Markel.
In his new role, Brooke will focus on expanding the company’s international war and terrorism portfolio. He aims to identify areas where political violence coverage is lacking and provide tailored solutions for clients around the world. His responsibilities will also include underwriting both new and renewal business, enhancing communication with coverholders, and collaborating with the wholesale claims team to address trends in claims and policy wording. Additionally, he will mentor junior team members to support their professional growth.
Brooke has been with Markel for over three years, where he has shown strong leadership and management skills. Before joining Markel, he spent more than eight years at W/R/B Underwriting, a Berkley Company, where he specialized in political risk and political violence insurance.
Chloe Gordge commented on the promotion, noting that the war and terrorism market is becoming more challenging due to increasing geopolitical tensions and regulatory changes. She believes Brooke’s experience will enhance Markel’s service and product offerings, especially in higher-risk areas.
In a related development, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) has appointed Louise Kidd as the first Head of Underwriting in Europe. Kidd has 22 years of experience in the industry and joined BHSI in 2020. She will continue her role as the global financial lines underwriting officer while overseeing underwriting in Europe from Dublin.
These promotions reflect a commitment to strengthening leadership and expertise in the underwriting field, particularly as the insurance landscape evolves.