Markel strengthens London fine art and specie team with new hire

Markel Insurance has appointed Katie McGrath as senior underwriter for London fine art and specie.

In her new position, McGrath will be responsible for identifying, pricing and placing complex risks, while partnering with the insurer’s London fine art and specie team to develop and drive the expansion of its London market portfolio.

She will also develop relationships with broker partners and work closely with the organisation’s claims and actuarial functions.

Dan McCarthy, director of marine at Markel International, said: “Rising values across all classes, the increase in high profile thefts and more frequently occurring natural disasters are creating new risk exposures and amplifying existing ones for galleries, jewellers and private collectors.

“McGrath’s impressive experience in handling international fine art and specie portfolios and delivering first class service will be critical to ensure we continue providing exceptional standards to our brokers and clients.”

Experience

McGrath joins the insurer from Talbot Underwriting, where she was a class underwriter within its fine art and specie team.

Prior to this, McGrath served as deputy specie underwriter at Antares Underwriting Services, in which she managed and wrote fine art, jewellers block, general specie and cash in transit risks. 

McCarthy added: “Markel has a long-standing reputation and pedigree in writing fine art and specie insurance and we’re delighted to have someone of McGrath’s calibre join our experienced team.

“She joins us at an exciting time as we look to drive further profitable growth and enhance our leadership position within the London market.”