Heaton’s new position will involve the supervision of the daily operations within the holding company, as well as the ongoing enhancement of the infrastructure supporting Markel Group’s diverse portfolio of companies.
Having previously served as Executive Vice President, Heaton played a pivotal role in steering the transition of Markel Corporation into Markel Group. His efforts included establishing a more structured holding company framework, identity, and team. Prior to this appointment, Heaton held the position of President at Markel Ventures from 2016 to 2022, and he served as the Chief Operating Officer of Markel Ventures before that.
As Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Heaton’s responsibilities will encompass the strategic management of Markel Group’s day-to-day operations, with a keen emphasis on three primary objectives: identifying optimal capital allocation opportunities, fostering and empowering top-tier leadership, and reinforcing the cultural ethos encapsulated in the Markel Style. He will continue to report directly to Gayner, operating from Markel Group’s global headquarters located in Glen Allen, Virginia.
Chief Executive Officer Tom Gayner, commented on the move, saying: “Mike has been by my side for close to two decades now. He is an incredible operator and thought partner who played a huge role in building the team, structure, and processes that made Markel Group into a great home for businesses. Operating with this level of autonomy, accountability, and love for our companies is not easy, but the system that Mike and the team created, and will continue to evolve, makes it possible.”
Heaton said: “There is always more work to be done, but I really do think that we can be the best home in the world for businesses. A place where people with shared values have the space and support that they need to win. To have the opportunity to help build something like this is the honor of a lifetime, and I’m going to give everything I can to make it happen.” – Mike .
