Claims Specialist II - MCU

UFG is currently hiring for a Claims Specialist II whose primary responsible for investigating, evaluating, negotiating and settling moderate to high complexity claims within (CD, E&S).  This position requires extensive experience in claims handling.  This position is responsible for conducting timely and thorough investigations, verifies applicable coverages, analyzes liability, evaluates damages for reserve and settlement, and negotiates claims to resolution in accordance with claims best practices. 

The Claims Specialist II position promotes a positive work environment encouraging their team members to be the best they can be and are willing to take on additional challenges as needed.  They buy into a strong service mentality for both internal and external customers.  This position requires a high EQ, strong soft skills and technical skills, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently and effectively.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities: 

On primary (specialty) files:

• Conduct investigation and determine if an attempt to resolve the suit prior to assignment to defense counsel is appropriate.
• Vet and retain appropriate defense counsel for the claim.
• Collaborate with defense counsel on case strategy and action plan, documented in the lit plan and budget.
• Actively manage the claim file and defense counsel to execute on the agreed plan, proactively pushing the claim to resolution.
• Document all file activity through detailed file notes and prepare reports for the claim file per claims best practice guidelines.
• Evaluate damages and recommend reserves per reserve timeliness and accuracy guidelines.  
• Develop and execute negotiation strategies and proactively push claims towards resolution.
• Actively identify subrogation potential and posture claim for successful subrogation recovery.   
• Identify risk transfer opportunities and exposures. Draft tender letters and place all potential parties on notice.
• Work with defense counsel in vetting, selecting and retaining experts when necessary. Be constantly aware of and apply expense management initiatives.
• Notify insured of key developments and demands throughout the case and communicate with the agency and underwriting regarding significant shifts in exposure.
• Review fee statements and negotiate adjustments in accordance with UFG billing guidelines.

On excess files:

• Investigate coverage and determine our limits and attachment point. Draft appropriate coverage position letters. 
• Evaluate and understand priority of coverage rules of the subject jurisdiction.
• Determine if monitoring or coverage counsel is necessary and if so, escalate request for same to supervisor.
• Monitor the underlying carriers’ handling of the file and insist on being copied on defense counsel’s reports, participating in strategy sessions and other discussions.
• Inform underwriting of increased hazards or unusual circumstances concerning a risk or policy exposure.
• Participate in company sponsored educational programs and other educational opportunities to develop knowledge and skill.
• Participate in various claims committees to drive claims initiatives.

Job Specifications: 

Education: 

• High school diploma.  
• College degree preferred.  

Certifications/Designations: 

• Meet the appropriate state licensing requirements to handle claims.
• CPCU, AIC, SCLA or Legal Principles, CCLA and PCLA of the AEI series preferred, or to be completed within 2 years of hire.

Experience: 

• 6+ years (Property/Casualty) claims handling experience.

Working Conditions:

• General Office Environment.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Knowledge, skills & abilities: 

• Ability to determine coverage, risk transfer, liability, and bodily injury evaluation for reserves and settlement.
• Moderate knowledge of claims handling best practices.
• Moderate knowledge of unfair claims practices/bad faith.
• Working knowledge of various lines of policy coverages.
• Continuous knowledge of applicable laws, regulations and venue.
• Knowledge of fraud indicators.
• Knowledge surrounding civil procedure.
• Strong communication skills.

Pay Transparency Statement: 

UFG Insurance is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The base salary range for this position is $85,000 - $100,000 annually, which represents the typical range for new hires in this role. Individual pay within this range will be determined based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, education, certifications, skills, internal equity, geography and market data.  

In addition to base salary, UFG Insurance offers a comprehensive total rewards package that includes: 

• Annual incentive compensation
• Medical, dental, vision & life insurance
• Accident, critical Illness & short-term disability insurance
• Retirement plans with employer contributions
• Generous time-off program
• Programs designed to support the employee well-being and financial security.

This pay range disclosure is provided in accordance with applicable state and local pay transparency laws.