Carsey joined Markel Service two years ago when the company changed the makeup of its general counsel team. Upon joining the company, she immediately set to work implementing a vision she had to bring the review of certain coverage work in-house.

Carsey built the program from the ground up, taking over as the senior director over all claims counsel and newly added coverage counsel, working to put together a functioning model for providing in-house advice. She now oversees a team of nine in the in-house coverage counsel unit and the concept that she spearheaded and helped grow from its infancy has resulted in significant savings for the company.

What was your proudest professional achievement in 2018?  

My proudest professional achievement in 2018 was becoming a senior director at Markel. This promotion was unexpected for me because I had not been the with the company for very long when the position became available.  It is rewarding to know that my company sees my hard work and leadership potential. My team consists of a group of highly experienced and amazing attorneys. It is such a pleasure to get to work with them every day.

What was your biggest professional challenge in 2018?

My biggest challenge in 2018 was developing the in-house coverage counsel unit at Markel.  Getting this group up and running was a huge undertaking with several challenges. Big changes are never easy. It was incredibly gratifying to start this group from scratch and to see it really take off in 2018.

What's the one piece of advice you would give someone when dealing with a crisis?

My advice to someone in a crisis is to trust your judgment. You are in a position of leadership for a reason. Don't be afraid to take action where action is needed. I know it's cliché but I like the motto—if not you then who, if not now when?

An awards ceremony will be held on Sept. 18 at the Belo Mansion in Dallas. The Attorney of the Year award winner will be announced at the ceremony.

Click here for booking information. For information about sponsoring the event, contact Andre Sutton at 757-721-9020 or email [email protected].