Markel has announced a significant leadership change in its UK regional business. Neil Galjaard, the current managing director of Markel UK, will step down from his position, subject to regulatory approval, and will be succeeded by Lee Mooney.
Galjaard has led Markel UK since 2016, during which time the company has achieved remarkable growth. Revenue has increased by 200%, and profitability has improved substantially. Under his leadership, Markel UK was recognized as the number one provider of service in commercial lines. Galjaard also developed a five-year strategy focused on strengthening Markel’s relevance to distribution partners and clients in the UK regional market.
The decision to step down was driven by personal plans that wouldn’t allow Galjaard to remain in a full-time role for the duration of the strategic plan. Henrik Bjornstad, managing director – national markets at Markel International, praised Galjaard’s impact on the National Markets UK business, stating, “Under his leadership we have been voted the number 1 insurer for service in Commercial Lines three times and we have tripled in size while improving profit levels.”
Lee Mooney, Galjaard’s successor, brings over 25 years of industry experience, most recently serving as managing director for RSA UK&I’s commercial lines business. He oversaw a portfolio exceeding £1 billion in premiums and led over 1,000 employees across the UK. In his new role, Mooney will be based in Leeds and report to Bjornstad.
“Lee is a strategic business leader with credible experience in a range of areas that form part of our UK business and vision for future success,” Bjornstad said. “He also has a fantastic reputation with brokers and distribution partners. I’ve no doubt he’ll build on the strong foundations already in place and deliver on the next phase of our profitable growth ambitions.”
This leadership transition comes as Markel Group continues to report strong financial results. In 2021, the company posted a 194% increase in net income, reaching $2.4 billion, with underwriting profits rising 392% to $628 million.
