Markel Insurance and Protecdiv have each announced new appointments aimed at strengthening their specialized business lines, with new hires focused on expanding capabilities across terrorism underwriting and construction risk management, respectively.
Markel confirmed two key additions to its international war and terrorism portfolio team. Joshua Watson (pictured above left) has been named senior underwriter – war and terrorism.
In this role, Watson will underwrite complex risks across Markel’s product suite, which includes stand-alone terrorism, terrorism liability, strikes, riots and civil commotion (SRCC), and active assailant coverage.
Based in the Alpharetta office in Atlanta, Ga., Watson will also focus on promoting the firm’s terrorism-related insurance solutions to brokers while supporting ongoing service delivery in the US market. He will report to Andrew Umphress, head of terrorism – North America at Markel.
Bridget Canderelli has also joined the team as an underwriting support specialist. She will support Watson and other underwriters by managing documentation and administrative tasks, ensuring consistent service for brokers and stakeholders. Canderelli is based in Markel’s Richmond, Va., office.
The appointments follow the launch of Markel’s new divisional structure for its US and Bermuda businesses, along with a series of leadership changes.
Protecdiv has appointed David Castillo (pictured above right) as executive vice president and national construction practice leader. In this newly created role, Castillo will lead the company’s efforts in expanding its construction and surety business.
He will oversee the development of risk management strategies, underwriting services, and client solutions in the construction, public works, and surety sectors.
Castillo brings more than 30 years of industry experience to Protecdiv, with prior leadership roles at USI Insurance Services, Marsh, and Willis. He most recently served as CEO of The Gray Casualty & Surety Company, where he led a national expansion initiative that shifted the firm from a regional to a nationwide surety provider.
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