MARKEL APPOINTS NICK BAYLISS TO PRODUCT LINE LEADERSHIP TEAM

 Richmond, VA, January 8, 2010 --- Markel Corporation announced today the appointment of Nicholas Bayliss as managing director for its transportation product line.

Mr. Bayliss has more than 23 years of insurance experience, and most recently he was the regional vice president, excess casualty for Arch Insurance Company. Prior to joining Arch Insurance Company, he was the assistant vice president, excess vehicular product line manager for Lexington Insurance Company where he led all aspects of the vehicular book including growth, compliance, underwriting, training and reinsurance. His experience also includes management positions at Discover Reinsurance Managers and CNA Risk Management.

“Nick’s leadership will help us develop a larger book of transportation business, as well as niche transportation liability products to broaden and diversify the existing portfolio,” said Gerry Albanese, chief underwriting officer. “This is an area where we want to increase our presence and be in a position to offer additional products to our wholesale partners.”

Mr. Bayliss, who will be based in Richmond, VA., reports to Gerry Albanese, chief underwriting officer.

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Markel Corporation markets and underwrites specialty insurance products and programs to a variety of niche markets. In each of these markets, the Company seeks to provide quality products and excellent customer service so that it can be a market leader. The financial goals of the Company are to earn consistent underwriting profits and superior investment returns to build shareholder value.