Markel appoints new head of UK construction

Markel Insurance has appointed Greg O’Neill as head of construction underwriting for the UK.

In his new role, O’Neill will be responsible for leading and developing Markel UK’s construction proposition as the insurer seeks to build on the growth of the specialist product line launched in 2023.

Markel said its construction offering provides cover for a broad range of construction risks, alongside access to in-house legal, tax and HR specialists and a suite of value-added services designed to help SMEs manage risk and operate more effectively.

O’Neill said: “Markel’s reputation, specialist expertise in construction, and commitment to delivering outstanding outcomes for brokers and clients make it a truly compelling proposition in the market.

“With strong foundations already in place, I look forward to working with our talented team and partners to build on this success, deepen our market presence, and help shape the next phase of profitable growth for the construction business.”

Experience

He brings more than 20 years of UK construction underwriting experience to Markel, spanning both insurer and MGA environments.

O’Neill joins the business from Pen Underwriting, where he most recently served as UK technical underwriting manager. During his time there, he was one of the founding members responsible for establishing the firm’s regional construction account in 2014.

Markel’s UK director of underwriting Mark Plews said: “Construction is a strategic product line for Markel UK and we needed someone with deep expertise and vision to build and grow what is already a successful proposition.

”O’Neill definitely fits this profile and we are pleased to have him onboard.”