Markel promotes for new director of marine transportation

Markel International has appointed Grant Smith as director of marine transportation.

In his new role, Smith will be responsible for shaping strategy across multiple classes and geographies while leading initiatives to strengthen underwriting capabilities, improve processes and support the delivery of tailored propositions for brokers and insureds.

He will also serve as a senior point of contact for brokers, clients and industry bodies, working closely with claims and actuarial teams to strengthen underwriting discipline and risk selection as risk exposures continue to evolve.

Smith said: “By bringing our marine and transportation capabilities closer together, we have an opportunity to offer clients and brokers more connected expertise across increasingly complex risks, while continuing to build on Markel’s long-standing reputation for disciplined underwriting and strong service.”

Experience

Smith has more than 17 years’ experience across marine specialty lines and underwriting leadership roles.

He joined Markel in 2024 as director for marine and energy liabilities, before assuming responsibility for transport and logistics in 2025.

Based in London, Smith will report to Dan McCarthy, managing director for marine, energy and construction, in his new role.

McCarthy said: “The marine transportation industry is facing heightened risk exposures, from increasing supply chain disruptions to rising thefts at ports as geopolitical tensions escalate worldwide.

“As these risks become more interconnected, it’s increasingly important that brokers and clients can access expertise across the full spectrum of marine and transportation exposures.

”Bringing these capabilities together under a single leadership structure will help us provide deeper insight, more coordinated solutions and a stronger experience for our trading partners.

“Smith has made a significant contribution since joining Markel in 2024. His experience across marine specialty lines makes him exceptionally well placed to lead this business and support our clients and brokers navigate a rapidly evolving operating environment.”