Bermudian-based Phil Schmidt has been appointed chief strategy officer of Markel, the insurance operations within Markel Group Inc.

The company said Mr Schmidt, who joined Markel last October as a managing director, will lead Markel's Global Strategy team.

His responsibilities will include engagement with major strategic initiatives and corporate development activities that are pursued across Markel globally.

Additionally, the company said, he will work closely across Markel and its State National and Nephila divisions on initiatives that address clients’ most complex risk management needs by leveraging the power of the company’s platform insurance, reinsurance, fronting and insurance-linked securities.

“Phil brings strong global and strategic credentials to the role of chief strategy officer,“ said Jeremy Noble, president, Markel. ”He also has demonstrated a close alignment with Markel’s people-driven culture, which we believe is an important asset.

“We are confident that his leadership of the Global Strategy team will keep Markel focused on the priorities and resources needed for industry leadership. I look forward to partnering with Phil in this work.”