Global carrier Markel Insurance has appointed Danny O’Donoghue as head of fine arts and coins, effective immediately, based in London and reporting to Markel International maritime director Dan McCarthy.
In his new role, O’Donoghue will lead the strategic and sustainable expansion of Markel’s fine art and coin portfolio to further strengthen its market position in London.
The company explained that he will identify, evaluate and underwrite complex risks in four key areas, including fine art, coins, jeweler’s block and cash in transit, while supporting the professional development of the underwriters within his team.
In addition, O’Donoghue will facilitate broker relationships and work closely with Markel’s claims and actuarial functions. In addition, he will seek partnership opportunities within the company’s international fine art and coin teams to enhance broker service levels and drive further profitable growth.
He has over 15 years of underwriting experience, 13 of which were in art and coin insurance. In the past, O’Donoghue served as director of art and coins at Talbot, where he was responsible for leading global strategy and execution for art and coins on Lloyd’s Syndicate 1183 and AIG corporate platforms. Prior to that, he served as a premium art and coin underwriter in Aspen for more than a decade.
McCarthy commented: “Rising asset values, a surge in high-profile thefts and more frequent natural disasters are creating new risks while exacerbating existing risks for galleries, jewelers and private collectors. Danny’s achievements are based on an entrepreneurial mindset, which is critical as we continue to provide best-in-class underwriting services, support and standards to our brokers and clients.”
“We are delighted to have someone of Danny’s caliber joining Markel’s Fine Art and Coins team in London. With his extensive expertise in managing and scaling large fine art coin portfolios, we are confident he will be able to drive our portfolio to new heights and enhance our leadership position in the London market.”
O’Donoghue added: “I’m delighted to be joining Markel as Head of Art & Coin. Opportunities like this don’t come around often, but Markel really stands out to me. I see strong cultural alignment, a clear unified proposition, and clear strategic direction – all of which I believe are important building blocks for continuing to grow the team and product portfolio over the coming years.”
“I am excited to drive the continued expansion of Markel’s leading expertise in the art and coin markets and to support our brokers and clients in an ever-changing and complex risk environment.”
