Markel International boosts energy offering

Markel International, a subsidiary of the Markel Corporation, has today made two key appointments to its downstream energy team, welcoming James Keens as senior downstream energy underwriter in London, and JJ Wong as downstream energy underwriter in Singapore.

The team has grown to include five underwriters who collectively deploy $150 million (approx. SG$202.24) of capacity on each risk, up from $25 million when the team was formed in 2017.

In their new roles, which they took up in February, Keens and Wong, will look to support Markel’s global clients assess and manage risks associated with the production, storage, and transportation of oil and gas products.

Keens, who joins from QBE, brings over eight years’ experience in the London downstream energy market to the role. He will report to Greg Walters, head of downstream at Markel International.

Wong, who has worked in the energy industry for over a decade, most recently managed a portfolio of downstream energy business across Asia Pacific at SCOR for more than four years. In a Press release, Markel noted that his appointment illustrates its ambition to expand its onshore specialist underwriting capabilities and energy portfolio in the Asia Pacific Region.

Commenting on the new appointments, Greg Walters, said: “James and JJ’s appointments exemplify the growth of Markel’s global energy underwriting capabilities. Their arrival from highly respected peers demonstrates our ability to attract top-notch industry talent with exceptional experience. Their specialised expertise will undoubtedly enhance the value we offer to our energy clients and brokers in their respective regions, further solidifying our commitment to delivering unparalleled service and solutions.”