Kelly Philips

Energetic and adaptable legal professional with extensive experience managing complex, high-exposure commercial and business litigation matters while balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders. Skilled in relationship-building, negotiation, litigation strategy, and cultivating trust through collaboration, communication, and a results-driven approach. Strong oral and written communicator known for sound judgment, decisive action, and securing favorable outcomes in high stakes matters.

Trusted trial attorney and leader with a proven ability to recruit, mentor, and develop legal teams while fostering a culture of engagement, education, and continuous growth. Passionate about delivering exceptional client results, strengthening team cohesion, and driving operational excellence within the business unit.

Lead Attorney – Eastern Regional at THE HANOVER INSURANCE GROUP (2010-01 – Present)

Moody's A-rated property and casualty insurance company.

• Manage, lead, investigate, and resolve complex commercial litigation matters across a substantial geographic area, advocating for clients in trials, negotiations, arbitrations, and mediations.
• Supervise and direct outside counsel to ensure case strategies are maintained, filings are timely, accountability is ensured, and internal protocols are followed.
• Advise leadership and management on litigation and pre-litigation matters, providing exposure and liability analyses and driving proactive defense strategies.
• Cultivate strong relationships with internal teams, clients, and adversaries to achieve optimal case results.
• Manage day-to-day litigation case management, including discovery, depositions, budgeting, litigation conferences, hearings, court appearances, and written motions.
• Expertly manage high-stakes and sensitive cases, including matters involving polarized parties.
• Recognized for identifying and overcoming obstacles to resolution through creative and strategic problem-solving.
• Monitor and analyze legal trends, proactively notifying claims and legal teams of significant developments.
• Foster a positive work environment through open communication, mentorship, and professional development of attorneys and staff.
• Provide strategic guidance regarding litigation exposure, risk transfer, and indemnification matters.
• Collaborate with East Coast management, executive leadership, nurse case managers, and litigation specialists to formulate and execute strategies for high-exposure cases.

Associate Attorney at SUGARMAN LAW FIRM, LLP (2002-01 – 2010-12)

AV-rated mid-sized business and litigation law firm with three offices throughout New York State.

• Managed litigated bodily injury claims, insurance coverage disputes, and subrogation matters through all phases of litigation.
• Advocated for clients in negotiations, arbitrations, mediations, and trial proceedings.
• Maintained a demanding litigation and trial schedule while effectively triaging high-volume caseloads and transitioning matters from departing attorneys.
• Prepared written mediation and arbitration submissions on behalf of clients.
• Selected by peers to serve as arbitrator based on knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and litigation strategy.

Juris Doctor in International Law Concentration – STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT BUFFALO SCHOOL OF LAW

Bachelor of Arts & Letters in Double Major: English and Psychology – STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT BUFFALO