Director of Claims

For more than 145 years, Erie and Niagara has been a policyholder-owned New York State regional insurance company. Providing property and casualty insurance coverage for more than 80,000 policyholders within the Western and Central New York areas, we have been A.M. Best Rated "A" Excellent and a 'Best Place to Work in WNY' year over year.

Position Overview

Erie and Niagara is seeking an experienced Director of Claims for their office located in Williamsville, NY.

Purpose

Successfully lead a team of professionals to achieve the collective goals of delivering unrivaled Claims experience. Responsible for developing and implementing strategies as it relates to the Claims delivery in an efficient and equitable manner. Responsible for creating a culture of accountability, superb customer service, and foster a positive team environment that enables professional development.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Responsible for the overall direction of claims department. To include establishing and monitoring policies, procedures, programs and workflows that promote teamwork, accountability and professional growth
• Maintains a comprehensive understanding of all New York State regulations surrounding the cycle of a claim and ensures adherence by all team members
• Continually evaluates the effectiveness of the claims function, as well as all team members by using benchmarks and file reviews that are used to ensure compliance as well as opportunities for improvement
• Responsible for establishing efficient and effective processes applicable to adequate reserving and subrogation methodologies and monitor for adherence and effectiveness
• Keeps abreast of claim handling trends and changes in the marketplace by applying advanced industry knowledge to discipline practices to make recommendations for improvement opportunities
• Responsible for monitoring case law and court decisions applicable to claims management. Communicate position and opinions to executive management, other departments and staff accordingly
• Effectively cultivates and manages strong business relationships with a wide spectrum of people, including independent adjusters and attorneys
• Directs control of the litigation management process and all claims related expenses
• Knowledgeable on current company reinsurance contracts and responsible for the necessary oversight to ensure timely and equitable recoveries
• Responsible for claims data analysis and maintaining a regular reporting structure to all interested parties, including executive management
• Responsible for responding to escalated claims related inquiries and participating in complex claims settlement negotiations
• Attends mediations, trials and industry endorsed conferences as necessary
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or related field required
• AIC designation is required
• Minimum 15 years related work experience in the insurance industry
• Comprehensive knowledge of property and casualty claims practices, including substantial previous property and casualty claims experience.
• Ability to apply advanced knowledge of insurance principles, practices and procedures
• Previous leadership/management experience required
• High level of self-motivation and initiative with the ability to learn quickly and deal with complexity and ambiguity.
• Proven ability to balance the strategic thought process around the lifecycle of a claim with tactical day-to-day activities.
• Outstanding analytical and organization skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to attract, develop and retain high performing team members
• High degree of computer proficiency

Erie and Niagara offers a competitive benefits package, including competitive salary, profit share bonus, health and dental insurance, 401(k) employer match, pension, and more! Qualified candidates may email their resume and salary requirements.

Erie and Niagara Insurance Association is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.