Markel US Southeast president exits after 19 years, replacement revealed

Specialist insurer  Markel's regional president for US Southeast region,  Markel Specialty, is leaving the company after over 19 years for another opportunity.

Nick Abraham will be replaced by Steve Girard (pictured), who currently serves as Regional President of the Mid-Atlantic region.

Girard joined Markel in 2008 in the Southeast region as managing director, production and underwriting. He was named Southeast regional president in 2011. In 2017, Markel expanded its regional model from five to six regions, and Girard was named Mid-Atlantic regional president.

Prior to Markel, he served in various senior management roles with CNA Re, WR Berkley, and Willis Re. Girard began his career in 1985 with General Reinsurance as a casualty facultative underwriter. During those 15 years, he spent one year with Markel in 1990 when it acquired the second half of Shand and the Rhulen Agency which became the basis for Markel Insurance Company.

"Steve took the helm of our newly created Mid-Atlantic region four years ago and all he and his team did was deliver consecutive years of strong, profitable growth," said Sarah Gavlick, chief territory officer, East, Markel Specialty. "We are looking forward to him and his team doing the same in our Southeast region, while further strengthening our business relationships with key wholesale and retail distribution partners."

"We thank Nick for his many contributions during his 19-plus years at Markel and wish him success in his new opportunity," Gavlick added.

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