Markel Insurance, the insurance arm of Markel Group Inc., announced the appointment of Grant Smith as director of ocean freight for Markel International.
In his new role, Smith will lead the development of the marine business, integrating Markel International’s Hull & Hull Wars, MECO, Marine & Energy Liability and Transportation & Logistics categories into one leadership structure.
He will be responsible for developing strategy across multiple categories and geographies while leading initiatives to strengthen underwriting capabilities, improve processes and support customized solutions for brokers and insureds.
Smith will serve as a senior liaison to brokers, clients and industry bodies, working closely with the claims and actuarial teams to enhance underwriting discipline and risk selection as risks continue to evolve.
He will be based in London and report to Dan McCarthy, managing director of marine, energy and construction.
Smith has more than 17 years of experience in marine expertise and underwriting leadership roles.
He joined Markel in 2024 as director of marine and energy liabilities, followed by transport and logistics in 2025.
Prior to joining Markel, Smith spent 13 years at QBE Insurance, most recently as a professional portfolio manager. He also held an underwriting position at Travelers for more than four years.
McCarthy commented: “As global geopolitical tensions escalate, the maritime industry faces greater risks, from increased supply chain disruptions to an increase in port thefts.
“As these risks become more interconnected, it is increasingly important for brokers and clients to have access to the full range of ocean and transportation risk expertise. Bringing these capabilities together under one leadership structure will help us deliver deeper insights, more coordinated solutions and a more powerful experience to our trading partners.”
“Grant has made a significant contribution since joining Markel in 2024. His experience in the marine specialty sector makes him ideally suited to lead the business and support our clients and brokers in the rapidly changing operating environment.”
Smith added: “I am delighted to serve as Markel International’s Ocean Director. By bringing our ocean and transportation capabilities more closely together, we have the opportunity to provide clients and brokers with closer expertise on increasingly complex risks, while continuing to build on Markel’s long-standing reputation for rigorous underwriting and strong service.”
