Markel International has appointed Gerry Albanese as president and chief operating officer.
At the same time Richie Whitt was appointed as executive vice president and chief administrative officer. Both appointments take effect from 1 September 2003.
Tony Markel, Markel Corporation president and chief operating officer, said: "These are important appointments for us and they are made following an extensive review of both internal and external candidates.
"We are confident that this talented partnership will enable us to build upon the excellent achievements of our UK operation, which have this week been recognised in the upgrade to A- by A M Best."
The appointment follows an announcement earlier this week that ratings agency AM Best has upgraded the financial strength rating of Markel International to 'A minus' from 'B++'.
