2019 Break Out Awards, Northeast: Bryan Berkman
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BRYAN BERKMAN
Senior vice president,
placement specialist
Marsh LLC
New York
Age: 39
When Bryan Berkman graduated from Lehigh University in 2003 with a master’s degree in political science, he considered practicing law. But a chat with a family friend who worked at Hartford Financial Services Group Inc. led him to insurance. In 2005, he joined Hartford as an underwriter focused on directors and officers liability. He joined Marsh LLC in 2012 after seven years as an underwriter.
What is the No. 1 concern in your specialty?
Over the last couple of years, we’ve seen a large emergence of securities claims. They are arguably the biggest targets for directors and officers policies. We’ve seen a lot of emerging claims coming from event-driven litigation like cyber-related breaches, or a catastrophe event like wildfires. The #MeToo movement has also been a big expediter of claims. We’ve seen a very large uptick in both claims frequency and severity. It’s been a real challenge.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the business?
What I’ve learned over the years in watching some of the senior leaders in my firm and others is that they once started exactly where new people joining the business are starting now, and they developed their skills and careers over time. A lot of what we do is about relationships. Whether it’s a pricing or claims outcome, getting on the phone or meeting in person goes a long way.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
When I was ages 12 and 13, I competed in the boys junior national championships for paddle ball. My partner and I won the national championships twice.
What is your favorite app or gadget?
My favorite app is the Weather app. It’s very important to me.
What would you/do you binge watch?
“Game of Thrones.” I love it.
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2019 Break Out Awards
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