Markel Insurance has expanded its Australian presence with a new office in Perth.

The specialty insurer launched here in 2023 with branches in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

“The new office supports Markel’s strategy to build a local operation across Australia, empowering underwriters to service the domestic business with on-the-ground expertise,” the insurer said.

Markel Australia MD Rory Morison says the Perth office “reflects our continued focus on profitable growth in Australia”.

Jerome Steyn and Pierre Dagnee have joined as senior underwriters, reporting to head of professional and financial risks head Kym Beazleigh.

“They are highly capable insurance professionals who understand our empowerment philosophy and have the judgment and autonomy to make decisions close to the market,” Mr Beazleigh said.

“Their experience in professional and financial risks, combined with deep mining and resources expertise, strengthens our ability to support brokers and clients in WA and builds momentum as we continue to grow our presence in Perth and around Australia through strategic hires.”