The UK insurance and regulatory sectors have seen a number of key leadership developments, reflecting both internal progression and strategic expansion across several organizations.
HM Treasury has confirmed the reappointment of Nikhil Rathi (pictured above, left) as chief executive of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for a second term.
Rathi, who began his tenure in October 2020, has overseen several significant regulatory reforms, including major changes to the UK’s listing regime – the most extensive in more than 30 years.
Under his leadership, the FCA introduced the Consumer Duty, aimed at ensuring that consumers receive appropriate support, clear communication, and products that meet their needs and offer fair value. With the Duty now embedded, the regulator has begun streamlining its rulebook, aiming to reduce compliance costs and support the UK’s international competitiveness.
The FCA has also focused on reducing and preventing harm by tightening firm authorisation standards, bringing a record number of criminal charges in the last year, and accelerating investigation timelines.
Markel, the insurance division of Markel Group Inc., has promoted Matthew Brooke (pictured above, middle) to senior underwriter, war and terrorism. He will report to Chloe Gordge, Head of War and Terrorism at Markel.
In his new position, Brooke will lead efforts to expand Markel’s International War and Terrorism portfolio. His responsibilities will include identifying coverage gaps in political violence insurance and supporting clients with tailored solutions.
He will continue underwriting new and renewal business, increase engagement with coverholders, contribute to claims-related wordings and trends, and mentor junior team members.
Brooke joined Markel over three years ago, following eight years at W/R/B Underwriting, where he specialized in political risk and political violence coverage.
Earlier this month, Markel also expanded its broker-facing teams across the UK with multiple appointments.
Howden has named Kirk Southern (pictured above, right) as its group chief people officer. Southern had held the role on an interim basis for six months and will now formally report to group chief operating officer David Shalders. He will also serve on Howden’s Global Leadership Team.
Southern is tasked with leading the insurer’s People Team and supporting the creation of a global people function aligned with the group’s growth strategy.
His previous roles include group head of reward and HR director for the fund management division at Arrow Global Group, with over 15 years of experience in senior HR roles across investment banking and asset management.
Recently, Howden also appointed Brigitte Trafford as the group chief corporate affairs officer, a newly created role.
Marine insurer Skuld has announced two leadership changes as part of its strategic growth and service development efforts.
Thea Thorstensen, senior vice president and current head of Skuld’s Western European business unit, will join the global business development team. In this role, she will focus on supporting Skuld’s worldwide growth initiatives.
Nicola Kingman will join Skuld in September as global head of yachts. She previously worked at the Shipowners’ Club and is recognized for her experience in superyacht insurance.
Managing general agent Arkel, part of the Atec Group, has appointed Steve Lewis as its new Chairman. Lewis brings over 35 years of insurance industry experience, having served as CEO of UK & International at RSA Insurance Group and CEO of UK GI & Shared Services at Zurich Insurance.
Lewis has held multiple board and non-executive roles, including nearly 10 years on the board of the Association of British Insurers (ABI) and eight years with Pool Re. He currently serves as CEO of Pro Insurance Solutions.
Arkel reported £42 million in gross written premium at the end of 2024 and is targeting £100 million within five years. Lewis’s appointment follows the hiring of former BGL Group executives Matthew Donaldson as Group Chairman and Steve Woodford as CTO.
What are your thoughts on this story? Please feel free to share your comments below.
