Markel has appointed Dena Furmanek as Senior Underwriter for Fine Art in North America, effective immediately.
In her new position, Furmanek will focus on growing Markel’s fine art portfolio within North America, aligning with the insurer’s strategic goals for its international marine and energy division.
Before joining Markel, Furmanek spent more than nine years at MarketScout, where she most recently served as vice president – fine art and collections, overseeing the managing agent’s fine art business operations.
She initially joined MarketScout in 2015 as an underwriter – fine art and collections, and advanced through senior underwriting and managerial roles. Prior to her time at MarketScout, Furmanek held various administrative positions at organizations including QBE North America.
At Markel, Furmanek will be responsible for underwriting and servicing new and renewal business, while enhancing relationships with clients and brokers across North America. She will report to Kyle McGrath, Head of US Fine Art, and will be based in the Chicago area.
McGrath noted that the global fine art insurance market is expanding, driven by rising art valuations and a changing risk environment for collectors, making partnerships with the right risk and insurance providers increasingly important.
In a related development, Markel has also appointed Jim Hinchley as Chief Retail Officer for its Specialty Division, where he will oversee the company’s retail strategy, focusing on expanding existing business and exploring new opportunities within the retail channel.
