US specialty insurer Markel has appointed Stephen Rogers as Head of Queensland, reporting to Australia MD Rory Morison who is based in Melbourne.

Like Mr Morison, Mr Rogers left Axa XL to join the insurer, which launched its Australia operations last month.

Mr Rogers joined Axa XL in 2008 as Senior Underwriter Casualty and in June 2019 took on an additional role as Underwriting Manager, according to his LinkedIn.

Markel says Mr Rogers brings with him more than two decades of experience in the Australian insurance sector and his knowledge of the casualty line “aligns” with the insurer’s focus on the liability market.

“His expertise will be instrumental in expanding our footprint and offering tailored insurance solutions to businesses across Queensland,” Mr Morison said.

“He brings deep sector knowledge across construction and resources, and will be able to provide solutions for sustainable long-term coverage and local partnerships.”

Markel says its Melbourne and Brisbane offices are now open and the Sydney branch will follow later this month.

Mr Rogers is the second key recruitment by Markel since the insurer announced last month its plan to enter the Australian market and appointment of Mr Morison to run the business.

“With the establishment of a strong and proven team of underwriting leaders in the Australian market, we are able to step up support for local clients and brokers, delivering the next phase in Markel's international expansion,” Mr Morison said.

The insurer has said it intends to introduce new products to Australian clients such as fintech and commtech insurance solutions that are designed to protect fast-growing technology businesses from a range of risks. These risks include professional indemnity, general liability, directors’ and officers’ liability, and cyber.