Markel International, the specialty property and casualty insurer, has announced the appointment of Diane Harding as Deputy Claims Manager. Diane joins the company to assist in the management of the casualty and property claims teams and will strengthen the expertise of the existing team.

Tony Curtin, Claims Manager, Markel International commented: “Diane’s extensive experience will make her a valuable member of the team, and help us fulfil our commitment to quality service and efficient claims turnaround.”

Diane joins Markel International from Downlands Liability Management where she held the position of Head of Reinsurance Claims, responsible for the Inward Reinsurance claims team, as well as creating and implementing a new claims finality business plan. Prior to her role at Downlands Liability Management, Diane held a number of roles in both claims handling and broking, at Equitas and Marsh respectively.

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For further information:
Derah McCall       
Markel International      
020 7953 6732 

Notes to editors:

1. Markel International Limited is a specialty property and casualty insurer. Based in London and comprising the international operations of Markel Corporation, it wrote gross premiums in 2004 of $ 746 million. It has five operating divisions writing business either through Markel Syndicate 3000 or through Markel International Insurance Company Limited.
2. Please find attached a photograph of Diane Hardy, Deputy Claims Manager, Markel International