Phelps Welcomes Mark Youngjohn to Help Insurers Manage Risk Amid Texas Energy Expansion
HOUSTON — Sept. 17, 2024 — Texas continues to set new records in energy expansion. This rapid growth brings challenges for businesses, particularly when catastrophic losses occur. Phelps welcomes insurance veteran Mark Youngjohn to help insurers manage risk and limit exposure to resolve complex claims. His move to Phelps furthers the firm’s growing presence in the state’s major commercial centers, adding to its strengths to meet client needs as they evolve.
“Mark’s arrival signifies a notable milestone in our firm’s strategic plan to expand our Texas and regional teams in support of growing client needs,” said Ivan Rodriguez, managing partner of the firm’s Houston office. “His addition, coupled with our recent additions in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston, reinforces our commitment to the region and the industry’s emerging markets.”
Mark defends insureds against large catastrophic claims. He guides operators, oilfield services companies and energy service providers through lawsuits related to personal injury and property damage at wellheads, production pads, pipelines, construction sites, refineries, and other energy sector operations.
When accidents happen or projects face obstacles, Mark reviews coverage details and contract provisions to clarify defense and indemnity obligations. He is sought after by both London market syndicates and domestic insurers to determine their responsibility after a loss or dispute. He builds robust litigation strategies to address incidents related to energy production, maritime and oil and gas operations, petrochemical facilities and pipeline projects.
Mark leverages deep industry knowledge to work out difficult issues stemming from oil and gas exploration, development and production. He has a proven record of finding favorable resolutions in and out of court for clients after facility fires and explosions, hurricane-related pipeline and platform damage, and onsite casualties.
"I'm excited to join the team at Phelps and share in their commitment to drive growth in response to client goals," said Mark. "I look forward to bringing my experience to the table as we work to understand and address the expanding needs of clients.”
Mark joins a team of 10 recent Texas additions to help companies navigate the market’s complex issues. Phelps continues to grow its offices in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston to expand capabilities in health care, M&A, eminent domain law, labor and employment and insurance.
