Markel

The 2025 Sam Markel Days of Service are here! This annual initiative, inspired by our founder’s legacy, empowers Markel employees to give back and make a difference in the communities where we live and work. Throughout the month, Markel-sponsored volunteer events are happening across the globe, bringing our teams together in service. Last year, nearly 600 employees across 25 Markel offices volunteered their time during 55 events. Through these efforts, we helped more than 40 different charities and nonprofits. Thank you to everyone who is rolling up their sleeves this year. Stay tuned for a recap of the impact we make together! #WeAreMarkel

We’re proud to share that Debbie Kail, Equine Insurance Specialist, has been named the 2024 American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) Professional Horsewoman of the Year. Debbie has been with Markel for 25 years, providing valuable insights and support to horse owners and professionals. She has spent her career as a professional horse trainer and judge dedicated to the American Quarter Horse and the clients she serves. Debbie’s willingness to help wherever needed and her profound knowledge of horses have made her a respected figure in the equine community. Please join us in congratulating Debbie on this well-deserved award! Read more about the recognition here: https://lnkd.in/e5gYdpev.

We're thrilled to announce that Kelly Castriotta, Esq., Global Executive Underwriting Officer of Cyber, Tech, AI, won Cyber Mentor of the Year at Intelligent Insurer's Cyber Insurance Awards USA 2025! She accepted the award at a ceremony in Chicago, IL last night. The expert panel of judges provided this comment to explain why she won: "Kelly approaches risk with great thoughtfulness and professionalism. She takes the time to carefully analyze coverage issues, guide individuals through complexities, and even step in to resolve conflicts when needed. With a great demeanor, and a wealth of knowledge, Kelly is a true professional and someone to look up to in the industry." Thank you, Kelly, for your leadership and zealous pursuit of excellence. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! #CyberInsuranceAwardsUSA

Michelle Gordon, Senior Director of Management Liability Claims, is speaking at the Professional Liability Attorney Network (PLAN) Regional Meeting in Dallas, TX, in two weeks. She is a panelist for the following session: "Artificial Intelligence Use in Litigation and Insurance Industry". You can still register for the event here: https://lnkd.in/gUZfvFJ5.

Brendan Hanley, Managing Director of Binding P&C, sat down with The Insurer TV at the recent WSIA (Wholesale & Specialty Insurance Association) Underwriting Summit to discuss the surge in submission flow from the admitted market and why it’s a great time to be a wholesale MGA and underwriter. “We’re trying to take advantage of these opportune moments to have our partnership with our clientele and solve the needs that they have right now,” he said. Brendan also spoke about how collaborating with wholesale distribution helps bring custom solutions and technological efficiencies. 📺 Watch the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/e4kZDrpC.

At the 2025 Global Actuarial Summit in London, Chief Actuarial Officer Rob Cole brought together actuaries and senior leaders from around the globe for four days of learning, collaboration, and connection. We were honored to welcome featured speakers Nick Line, Chief Underwriting Officer of Markel International, and Kalpana Shah-Sheth FIA C.Act, Non-Executive Director of International Corporate Management, who shared invaluable expertise. EY and hyperexponential also joined us to provide future-focused perspectives, while dynamic panels, interactive workshops and our first-ever Actuarial Dragon’s Den competition sparked innovation. Special thanks to Neil Bruce, Chief Actuary of Markel International, and his exceptional team for hosting this impactful event. At Markel, actuaries are committed to building value and delivering solutions. The 2025 Global Actuarial Summit set the stage for future success, and we’re excited for what’s to come. #WeAreMarkel

Two members of our claims division presented at the 8th Annual Women in Insurance Leadership ExecuSummit this week. Rebecca Shantel Dixon, Senior Claims Specialist, shared her perspective on a panel called “Work Life Balance – A Myth, Mystery or a Must?”. Then Kendra Johnson, Senior Counsel/Manager, Management Liability Claims, spoke on a session called “Recruitment, Retention & Responsibility”. We thank both Shantel and Kendra for their leadership! The event was a great opportunity to gain strategic insights, connect with industry leaders and exchange ideas with peers.

The Markel Women's Network hosted Valentina Peleggi, Music Director of the Richmond Symphony, and Lacey Huszcza, CEO of the Richmond Symphony, at our Richmond, VA office and virtually as part of our International Women's Day events. During yesterday's discussion, they shared their inspiring professional journeys and the challenges they've faced — many of which stemmed from being the first woman in different roles. They emphasized that being a leader isn't about following those before you but forging your own unique way of leading. Thank you to Valentina and Lacey for giving us a fascinating glimpse into the world of symphonies and for sharing your insights and advice!

We did it again — Markel is a Top Workplace in Richmond, VA! 🎉 Thanks to our employees, Markel has been named one of the Richmond Times-Dispatch Top Workplaces for the third year in a row. This recognition is based entirely on their feedback, making it even more meaningful. Earlier this year, our Richmond employees participated in a Top Workplaces survey and shared their insights on our culture, work experience, and programs. Their input highlighted key areas of progress, including fairness in pay and benefits, work-life flexibility, inclusion and growth opportunities. Markel was recognized as one of just eight companies in the “mega” category (900+ employees), with our official ranking to be revealed at the Top Workplaces awards ceremony in May. #TopWorkplaces #WeAreMarkel #MarkelStyle

Rochelle Foster, Senior Director of US Professional Liability, will be a featured panelist on the following NAAIA - National African American Insurance Association webinar next week: "Dismantling Stereotypes – Elevating Women and Minorities in Insurance Leadership". In this one-hour session, held in honor of Women’s History Month, industry leaders will discuss: ✔️ The challenges and opportunities for women and minorities in insurance leadership ✔️ Best practices to break systemic barriers and implement inclusive leadership pathways that empower diverse talent ✔️ Actionable strategies to foster inclusivity and professional growth Register here: https://lnkd.in/eJ37_6-q. #WomensHistoryMonth