Markel Corp. reported having a “busy and productive year” last year, with a diluted net income per share of $27.27 at the end of December 2010, compared to $20.52 for the prior year.

Markel Corp. announced a new management structure that the company said allows for future succession among its leaders, including the creation of a new Office of the President.

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

A light hurricane season and improvements in its investment portfolio blew winds of good change for Markel Corp, which reported a diluted net income per share of $6.02 for the third quarter.