News in brief…

Markel appoints Finn
Conor Finn has been appointed director of business development at Markel to service Markel's brokers more effectively and develop growth opportunities. Jeremy Brazil will cover Finn's previous role as managing director of Markel International's non-marine property division until a replacement is found.

First published on 31 January

RAC merges divisions
RAC is to merge its accident and legal services. John Lawrence, former director of membership sales at RAC Rescue, will head the new department.

First published on 31 January

Political risk warning
Concerns about political risk are affecting investment in emerging markets, a report from the Economist Intelligence Unit has warned. Almost 30% of the senior executives surveyed said their companies had cancelled existing investments due to political risk.

First published on 1 February

SBJ buys SG Ingram
SG Ingram, a Harrogate-based broker, has been acquired by SBJ Group for an undisclosed sum.

First published on 2 February

Zurich partnership
Zurich entered into a partnership with the Swiss Agency for Development and Co-operation for an initiative aimed at expanding insurance cover to disadvantaged sectors in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

First published on 1 February

Avery to quit Aspen board
Aspen director Julian Avery will not be standing for re-election to the Aspen board, when his current term expires on 2 May.

First published on 31 January