Markel Insurance, the insurance arm of Markel Group Inc., has expanded its claims capabilities in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) by appointing Luna Bonifacio (pictured) as senior claims adjuster in Dubai.
Bonifacio will be responsible for managing casualty claims across the MENA region as part of the Asia claims team, reporting directly to Bo Yu, head of claims for Asia.
Her role will include acting as the main contact for insureds and brokers in the region, as well as supporting underwriters and contributing to client service delivery.
This move marks the first time Markel has established a claims role based in Dubai, reflecting the company’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its regional presence and bring decision-making closer to its customers in both Asia-Pacific (APAC) and MENA markets.
Bonifacio brings experience from previous positions at Liberty Specialty Markets, Sedgwick, Zurich, and RSA, where she worked on casualty claims and regional portfolio development.
Commenting on the appointment, Bo Yu said: “As our first locally based claims professional outside Singapore, her appointment marks another important stride in our journey to put Markel on the map. I’m confident Luna’s expertise will help us deliver even greater value to our clients as we continue to grow in the region.”
Max Robbie, senior executive officer for Markel MENA, added: “Luna’s expertise and on-the-ground presence in Dubai will enable us to respond more quickly and effectively to our clients’ evolving needs, ensuring they receive the highest standard of service and support.”
The Dubai appointment comes as Markel Insurance announces a broader restructuring of its international operations.
The company will shift from its current two-division model – Wholesale and National Markets – to five separate business units by the end of 2025.
The new structure will comprise Asia-Pacific, Canada, Europe, London Market (including marine & energy, PFR & cyber, and specialty), and the UK.
This reorganisation is intended to streamline decision-making and allow each business unit to develop strategies tailored to their specific markets.
The London Market business will bring together Markel International’s marine & energy, PFR & cyber, and specialty product lines under unified leadership.
The company plans to appoint a managing director for the London Market, who will oversee operations within Lloyd’s and the broader London insurance market.
Tom Hillier has been named chief underwriting officer and will oversee underwriting strategy and governance across Markel’s international businesses.
Hillier, who joined Markel in December 2023, previously led the company’s specialty practice and has held senior roles at Brit Insurance.
All five business units, along with the CUO role, will report to Andrew McMellin, president of Markel International.
As part of the changes, the roles of wholesale managing director and national markets managing director will be phased out.
Henrik Bjørnstad, current national markets managing director, will leave the company at the end of the year.
