A non-insurance subsidiary of Markel Corp. acquired a majority interest in a manufacturer of wood for truck assembly that continues its plan to invest in and help grow businesses in niche markets.

Richmond, Va.-based Markel Corp. said it completed its acquisition of Thompson Insurance Enterprises, which operates as THOMCO.

Richmond, Va.-based Markel Corp. is acquiring Thompson Insurance Enterprises, which operates as THOMCO, a privately held program administrator underwriting multi-line, industry-focused insurance programs.

Markel Corp. has acquired a majority interest in a privately held behavioral health management firm located in its back yard in Richmond, Va.

Markel Corp., a Richmond, Va.-based specialty insurance marketer and underwriter, announced today (Nov. 29) that its chairman and chief executive “may be absent” from the corporate offices for two months to receive medical treatments.

The number of insurance industry mergers and acquisitions has jumped in the last few months, after two years of minimal activity.

Markel Corp. is acquiring Aspen Holdings, a privately held insurance group that provides workers’ compensation insurance, for about $135 million.

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.

The Independent Insurance Agents of Virginia has scheduled its 2010 Annual Convention for June 20-23 at the Virginia Beach Hilton.

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