Head of Ocean Cargo

Markel • Chicago, IL

7d

About The Position

If you’re looking for a place where you can make a meaningful difference, you’ve found it. The work we do at Markel gives people the confidence to move forward and seize opportunities, and you’ll find your fit amongst our global community of optimists and problem-solvers. We’re always pushing each other to go further because we believe that when we realize our potential, we can help others reach theirs. Join us and play your part in something special! The primary purpose of this position is to lead and implement the strategic vision and plan of assigned product line(s). Provide leadership, direction and support to underwriting team(s) and/or direct reports. Is responsible for product profitability, growth and retention of new and renewal business that is consistent with underwriting strategies. Manage assigned product line(s) to achieve profit, revenue, loss ratio, and expense targets. Ensure effective execution of best practices. Provide coaching and training for underwriting staff based on results of underwriting audit review. Develop and maintain relationships with internal resources (Actuarial, Product Development, Claim, IT, Operations, Regulatory, etc.) to coordinate services to customers and ensure that superior products are being delivered to our internal and external customers.. Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Ocean Cargo to lead our Ocean Cargo product line, set the long-term vision, and drive operational excellence across the platform. This individual will play a critical role in shaping product strategy, enhancing underwriting performance, and ensuring our Ocean Cargo operations are efficient, compliant, and positioned for sustainable growth. As the Head of Ocean Cargo, you will collaborate closely with underwriting leadership, operations, analytics, and corporate stakeholders to optimize portfolio performance, introduce innovative solutions, and elevate our market presence. This is a high-impact leadership role for a dynamic executive who thrives at the intersection of strategy, operations, and technical expertise.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience of Ocean Cargo Experience
• Proven track record of leading teams, managing portfolios, and delivering profitable results.
• Strong understanding of Ocean Cargo products, regulatory environment, forms, and market dynamics.
• Demonstrated ability to drive operational improvements and manage complex cross-functional initiatives.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to execute tactically.
• US Work Authorization required. Markel does not provide visa sponsorship for this position, now or in the future.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership & Product Line Oversight Lead the strategic direction, management, and performance of the Ocean Cargo product line.
• Drive initiatives that support profitable growth, operational efficiency, and market competitiveness.
• Oversee portfolio performance, ensuring underwriting discipline, product sustainability, and strong risk selection.
• Operational Excellence & Process Optimization Develop, document, and implement strategies to streamline workflows and improve business processes across the product line.
• Ensure a lean, scalable operating platform that supports current needs and future business expansion.
• Partner with internal operations teams to ensure successful rollout of system enhancements and operational changes.
• Underwriting Support & Guidance Provide leadership and technical direction to underwriting teams, ensuring alignment with product strategy.
• Lead annual guideline reviews and support the implementation and ongoing governance of underwriting standards.
• Use data-driven insights to manage rate adequacy, exposure aggregates, and key performance metrics.
• Compliance, Forms & Regulatory Oversight Serve as the key contact for forms development, regulatory changes, and compliance matters impacting the Ocean Cargo business.
• Ensure alignment with industry bureaus, regulatory bodies, and internal compliance requirements.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement Identify opportunities for incremental improvements across people, processes, and systems.
• Promote best practices, operational consistency, and knowledge sharing across the Ocean Cargo team.
• Drive and support strategic projects that strengthen product offerings, improve efficiency, and enhance customer value.

Benefits

• In keeping with the values of the Markel Style, we strive to support our employees in living their lives to the fullest at home and at work.
• We offer competitive benefit programs that help meet our diverse and changing environment as well as support our employees’ needs at all stages of life.
• All full-time employees have the option to select from multiple health, dental and vision insurance plan options and optional life, disability, and AD&D insurance.
• We also offer a 401(k) with employer match contributions, an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, PTO, corporate holidays and floating holidays, parental leave.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees