Markel Insurance has named Clarice Francis (pictured) as operations manager for its international war and terrorism division.
Francis will be based in London. In her new role, she will oversee operational efficiency within the team. Her remit includes working with management, claims, actuarial and product development departments to analyse and audit services. The role is intended to strengthen underwriting policies and procedures for clients and brokers.
She will report to Ed Winter, director of terrorism at Markel International, and will support regional heads across Asia, the UK, and the US. Her responsibilities also include collaborating with brokers to improve risk assessment, streamline processes, and manage underwriting relationships.
“We’re continuing to see the PV market face heightened demand amid rising global instability and increased scrutiny in the PV space. With Clarice on board, she’ll bring an exciting new dynamic to the team, enhancing our offering for clients and brokers,” Winter said.
“Clarice will be pivotal in not only strengthening the team’s ability to manage complex risks more effectively, but also in developing new efficiencies within our global team and deepening broker relationships to bring innovative ideas and projects to fruition. This will ensure we can continue delivering more tailored solutions for our clients, as a best-in-class insurer in the political violence market, especially through times of geopolitical instability.”
Francis joins from Hiscox, where she specialised in operations management and project delivery. She progressed through several roles there, most recently serving as operations team manager for four years. Earlier in her career, she completed a six-month law internship with Kennedys in Spain.
Her appointment comes at a time of significant shifts in the insurance landscape. In the UK, the new Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025 - commonly known as “Martyn’s Law”—came into force in April, requiring venues and event organisers to adopt measures against terrorist threats. The effect has already been felt: demand for terrorism and political violence cover is rising as organisations seek to comply with new regulations.
Globally, political risk and violence remain ranked among the top corporate concerns in 2025, with civil unrest highlighted as a major threat by firms surveyed in the Allianz Risk Barometer. In the UK specifically, a recent survey found that 85% of business leaders say political risk is directly affecting their profitability. Meanwhile, the UK insurance market continues to soften: Q2 2025 saw rate reductions of 10% to 20% across many lines as competition intensifies, according to a report from Aon.
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