This year, CLM recognized five professionals of the year at its annual conference, adding, for the first time, two young professionals of the year categories. The five winners took some time to share with us a little bit about their journeys on the path to success.
Question: What would you say has been the biggest contributing factor to success in your career up to this point?
“I am very fortunate to work for a company like Liberty Mutual, where I am given the opportunity to develop and innovate as an attorney in this dynamic litigation management arena. This has given me the chance to collaborate with talented colleagues who engage at a high level to ensure top outside counsel performance.”
Angela Taylor, Assistant Vice President and Regional Manager for Liberty Mutual’s Legal Operations Group, Legal Strategic Services. Litigation Management Professional of the Year.
“The biggest contributing factor to my success is dogged resilience. Adversity is guaranteed, but the way you recover is outcome determinative.”
Kellie Howard-Goudy, Attorney, Collins Einhorn Farrell. Young Outside Counsel Professional of the Year.
“The biggest contributing factor to success in my career has been being open to change. In our industry, change is certain and the ability to adapt with a positive mental attitude is essential to thriving in the industry. ‘If you are not changing or evolving, you’re dying.’ — Marcus Lemonis.”
Jamie Samaniego, Senior Claims Examiner, Markel. Young Industry Professional of the Year.
“Surrounding yourself with the best and the brightest people, truly loving what you do, and constantly learning. I’m fortunate to have partners who are team players, supportive, and collaborative. Our clients are savvy, sophisticated, and work closely with us to reach new levels of success.”
Stephen Henning, Founding Partner, Wood Smith Henning & Berman LLP. Outside Counsel Professional of the Year.
“Three things: human connection—the more you get to know others, the more you can accomplish together. Start with ‘yes’—in every conversation, find the space where you agree. In every opportunity, first say ‘yes,’ and then figure out how. Self belief—we become what we believe we can be.”
Rose Hoyle, Construction Risk Engineer, AXA XL. Claims Management Professional of the Year.