Managed the in-house claims department for CST Brands, Inc. (formerly Valero Retail) and Cross America Partners LP, overseeing general liability claims across 1,174 fuel and convenience stores nationwide. Managed all claims in litigation. Worked closely with Human Resources, Loss Prevention, and Operations to implement safety programs and discuss overall claim activity, which reduced store incidents. Supervised automobile claims for a fleet of over 372 vehicles and conducted high-level reviews of workers’ compensation and non-subscriber claims, as well as reserves, on a monthly basis. Fostered and promoted positive relationships with customers, inside and outside legal counsel, vendors, retail store employees, and management at all levels.• Developed and staffed a claims and risk management unit, eliminating the need for an external third-party administrator, resulting in an average annual cost savings of $400K.• Proactively identified and researched a trend concerning pedestrian traffic incidents at stores. Led the project by providing technical and strategic insights based on my working knowledge of claim occurrences and litigation.• Selected a panel of defense attorneys, monitored the performance of outside counsel, and implemented litigation guidelines.• Partnered with Verisk/ISO ClaimSearch for insurance fraud prevention.• Attended mediations and trials.

As a self-directed independent claims manager, extensively traveled across South Texas to conduct on-site investigations for a principal. My experience encompasses a wide array of claims, including personal and commercial vehicle accidents, fatalities, trucking mishaps, cargo issues, construction disputes, dram shop and liquor liabilities, oilfield accidents, and incidents at restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Carried out swift and comprehensive investigations by inspecting property damage, assessing facts, and researched laws and regulations to ascertain the company's liability before making decisions. In the process of claim evaluation, collaborated with law enforcement, lawyers, adjusters, contractors, construction personnel, medical facilities, and coroners. Obtained scene photographs and recorded statements, identified opportunities for subrogation, and actively pursued collections for the principal. Represented clients during mediations, offered settlement advice, attended trials, and consistently provided detailed daily reports to clients.

Investigated, evaluated and settled first and third party personal auto bodily injury claims, including uninsured/underinsured motorist claims, Personal Injury Protection, third party property, ATV accidents, dog bite and theft claims. Participated in weekly roundtables.

Investigated personal and commercial auto claims involving bodily injury with exposures up to $100,000. Evaluated coverage. Adhered to all statutory and regulatory fair claims practices. Assembled quality arbitration materials and referred cases to legal when necessary.

Diligently investigated, evaluated and settled minor to moderate personal automobile claims, third-party property damage and homeowner liability claims. Performed face to face recorded interviews. Performed on-site accident investigations. Resolved total losses, Personal Injury Protection and Medical Payments claims. Promoted from desk adjuster to field adjuster within 6 months of hire.