LSM promotes Howell to UK and MENA claims head

Liberty Specialty Markets (LSM) has appointed Sarah Howell as head of claims, UK and Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, effective 1 July 2026.

Howell (pictured) will report to Mike Gillett, chief claims officer, Liberty International Insurance, and Luis Prato, president, UK and MENA.

She will also join the UK and MENA executive leadership team and the global claims executive.

In the new role, Howell will be responsible for delivering client and broker outcomes, maintaining technical claims standards and supporting the continued growth and strategic development of the business.

She succeeds Scott Kellers, who left the business in April 2026.

Howell has more than 11 years’ experience at LSM across two periods of service.

Most recently, she was head of first party claims.

Liberty said she played a key role in leading complex claims, deepening broker and client relationships and advancing the development of the claims function.

Gillett said: “Sarah has deep technical expertise, strong market credibility and a clear understanding of what clients and brokers value most.

“Claims is central to how we serve our clients, support our brokers and differentiate our business in the market.

“Sarah’s appointment reflects both her exceptional leadership capabilities and the depth of claims talent within Liberty.”

LSM said the appointment reinforces its commitment to claims excellence and client service across one of its key international regions.