Supporting the next generation

Markel International, London

To mark six new graduates and two apprentices starting this year, we asked members of our leadership team what advice they would give to someone joining Markel and the insurance industry today.

Juliet Redfern, divisional managing director of equine and livestock

We are one of the lucky teams to have had a graduate start with us over the last six weeks. Our latest appointment takes me back to when I started as a university graduate at Willis Towers Watson. Since then, a lot has changed…

It’s a good time to start at Markel because we have a great programme set up for graduates, which will help them to acquire the skills, behaviours, and experience they need to excel in their insurance careers. For those starting out in our industry, my advice is to make the most of it and to not take it for granted. You must also realise that it is you who must own and shape your career; nobody else can do this for you. 

 Scott Bailey, divisional managing director of cyber

Be inquisitive… if you don’t understand something, just ask. It’s easy to forget that even the most senior colleagues at Markel began in the same way. There is no shame in not knowing the answer to something, and if you see something that can be improved, don’t be shy! Fresh perspectives are incredibly valuable to Markel because we are always looking for innovative ways to improve our products and services for customers.

Insurance is a great industry to be in because there are so many differing facets to it. Whether your specialism is maths, science, relationships, or legal/contracts, there is space to explore those in the various roles in our industry, including: actuarial, claims, wordings, contracts, and relationship development, among others. With that said, my advice is to lean towards your own skills in deciding the best path for you to follow in your insurance career. 

 Chris Fenn, divisional managing director of marine

My advice would be to ensure you build a strong foundation to progress in your career. Being organised and performing the basics well are key requirements. Grasping the technical aspect of your role at each stage of your career progression is vitally important and this involves understanding Markel’s systems and processes, as well as the insurance subject matter. Listening to and observing everything that goes on within your teams and divisions will also provide you with experience over time to complement your technical abilities.

It takes time to gain experience so patience is required, but as long as you can see you are continually learning and progressing, you are on the right path. You also need to recognise that careers do not progress at a fast or even steady pace; there can be periods of quick progression and there can be slower periods. Additionally, people skills and networking is important, which applies within Markel and externally. For those starting out in our business,  you are in a very fortunate position because there are career paths and opportunities ahead, and with hard work and commitment, we can help you to pursue a successful insurance career.

We are in the early stages of a technical and digital revolution of the insurance industry that will change it beyond recognition. To keep up with this ever-evolving industry, you will need to be prepared for change, and the more you keep up to speed with what is possible, the easier the transition will be. You have the opportunity to add real value to Markel’s future and to lead it by being at the forefront of innovation, so ensure you take this opportunity by the horns.

 Rohan Davies, divisional managing director of energy

Markel is a fantastic place to work. For those early on in their careers, we have a wealth of expertise and training available to provide each individual with a solid base from which they can build their career. The whole ethos of Markel is that we want all our associates to have rewarding careers that truly interest and excite them each day. Our organisation is set up to allow just that, and so, my advice would be to ask lots of questions, be inquisitive, and try and understand how all parts of the machine work. Some of the answers will surprise you and may spark an interest down a path that you may not have thought about. Everyone at Markel is proud of what they do and proud to be a part of the organisation, and I am sure it won’t take long for you to feel your career is taking shape.

The wider insurance industry is evolving rapidly with e-trading, algorithm underwriting, new and innovative products, and sustainability. This is such a good time to be part of shaping the future of Markel and the wider market. Any projects that are of interest, get involved and read up on new technology or new exposures. If you think of something innovative – be it a new insurance product or an efficiency gain in managing data – speak to someone. Ideas that get put into action are what keep us at the forefront of the market and will lead to a rewarding career.

 David Sawyer, divisional managing director of PFR

Be yourself! Embrace what Markel and the London Market have to offer in terms of developing yourself to be the best you can be. Look to build relationships, not just with your direct work colleagues, but also with the wider Markel organisation, and remember to have fun!  

The London Market has been slow to evolve over the last decade, but as a result of the pandemic, firms have changed their working practices and realised the benefit of embracing technology. I firmly believe insurance firms need to adapt or risk falling behind. Those firms that achieve efficiencies through technology will be able to manage costs and improve productivity to achieve a competitive advantage. So, my advice to people just starting their insurance career would be to try and understand those winds of change, understand the additional skillsets required to support these changing business models, and don’t be afraid to voice your opinion if you see a better way of doing things.  

 Chris O’Shea, claims director

Embrace the experience of your manager and colleagues by utilising their networks to increase your understanding and exposure in the insurance industry. There is no wrong question and, knowing the Markel culture, people will be happy to invest the time to ensure that you have a full understanding of how and why we do things. Knowledge and application is key.

Graduate and apprentice programmes provide a great framework for practical work and study, but make sure you get the balance right. Completing your studies early is a lot easier at the beginning of your career. As you navigate your way through it, consider what areas you enjoy the most and where you feel you can add the most value. Expressing an opinion in the appropriate way raises your profile, provides a fresh outlook, and perhaps even a welcome challenge.

About Markel International:

Markel International is a division of Markel Group Inc, a US-based holding company trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MKL). Markel International writes insurance and reinsurance business through six divisions and through offices across the UK, Europe, Canada, Latin America and Asia Pacific. Markel International’s insuring entities include Syndicate 3000, Markel International Insurance Company Limited, Markel Insurance SE., and Markel Resseguradora do Brasil S.A. Its UK national markets business also provides legal and professional fees insurance cover as well as legal and tax consultancy services.