Markel Corp. said Paul W. Springman has resigned as the Richmond, Va.-based specialty insurer’s president and CEO, effective Jan. 1.

Springman, who has been on a leave of absence since late October, will “pursue other interests,” according to a statement from the company.

Alan I. Kirshner, chairman and CEO of Markel Corp., said the company appreciated Springman’s contributions over the last 25 years.

Markel Corp. markets and underwrites specialty insurance products and programs to a variety of niche markets.