A True Champion Rises

CLM will honor Gallagher Bassett Vice President of Carrier Practice and Director of Carrier Engagement Caryn Siebert with its Lifetime Achievement Award at April’s annual conference. The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes distinguished industry professionals who have made a lasting impact on the industry and CLM. Recently, Siebert shared with CLM Magazine some of her career highlights, successes, and advice for today’s professionals. 

WHAT WAS YOUR REACTION UPON HEARING FROM CLM CEO RONNA RUPPELT THAT YOU WOULD BE THIS YEAR’S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER? 

My first reaction was that I’m too young to receive this award. Then we both started laughing as I acknowledged that my 60th birthday has already been celebrated. I’ve been a positive force in the industry for over 30 years, acting as a spark, influencer, mentor, and sherpa to so many, especially young ladies. SoI’m proud to accept this award and, as Pat Gallagher would say, I’m just getting started. 

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF PROFESSIONALLY? WHAT ARE SOME IMPORTANT CAREER MILESTONES? 

I have always been a champion or mentor to others, imparting my knowledge and sharing various skills. I take pride and joy in being part of their success and advancement. Mentoring gives back to me more than I give, and, having been the beneficiary of truly gifted and talented mentors who set aside time to take an interest in me, I want to pay it forward. In 2010, Business Insurance named me a Woman to Watch, and that motivated me to continue progressing, giving back, and lifting others up.  Also, I loved authoring a chapter of the “Women to Watch” book with tips for people I’ve never even met—but they DM me about their courage and success. 

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS WHO ARE JUST BEGINNING THEIR CAREERS IN CLAIMS AND LITIGATION? 

If you find yourself saying, “I’m just a claims adjuster and have to do XYZ,” or describing yourself at a party as, “I’m just a defense attorney,” then you need to reassess. You are a member of an amazing, recession-resistant industry, full of genuine people who care about helping others at their worst time. I get to give back to the community. I love to mentor others, coach employees, and connect people to resources. I enjoy partnering with counsel, care providers, jury consultants, and great colleagues at all levels to deliver what matters most in the situation. I get to do all of that while being the director of carrier engagement and generating new business for the GB boutique carrier practice, while being a good daughter and friend to many. Embrace the twists, turns, and opportunities the industry offers and you’ll turn your job into a fabulous career. 

ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC SUCCESSES OR ACCOMPLISHMENTS THAT STAND OUT TO YOU OR HOLD A SPECIAL PLACE IN YOUR HEART? 

I had been a finalist twice for a CLM Professional of the Year Award and always said it wasn’t about being a winner, but about others thinking highly enough to nominate me and having a positive impact on the industry. But, I gotta tell ya, back in 2017 when I actually won, and was up on that stage at the Grand Ole Opry, wow! Seeing my mom beaming and feeling the admiration from colleagues was so inspirational, and it motivated me to take my passion to the next level, hence contributing to me receiving this lifetime achievement award.