Job Title: Claim Manager
Department: Claims
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Reports to: VP, Claims
Summary:
The Claim Manager is responsible for leading and managing the commercial claims team, ensuring the efficient, accurate, and compliant handling of claims across a diverse portfolio, with a specialized focus on educational institutions. This role provides strategic direction, oversees complex claims resolution, and drives continuous improvement in claims operations. The Manager serves as a key liaison between internal departments, external stakeholders, and senior leadership, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and regulatory standards.
This position requires strong leadership, deep technical expertise in commercial claims, and the ability to foster a high-performance culture within a dynamic and service-oriented environment.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership & Team Management
- Lead, develop, and manage a team of claims supervisors, adjusters, and specialists.
- Set performance goals, monitor KPIs, and ensure alignment with departmental objectives.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.
- Operational Oversight
- Oversee the end-to-end claims process, ensuring timely and accurate resolution of claims.
- Implement and refine workflows, systems, and procedures to optimize efficiency and service quality.
- Ensure compliance with internal policies, industry regulations, and audit standards.
- Complex Claims Oversight
- Provide guidance and approval on high-exposure, sensitive, or litigated claims.
- Collaborate with legal, underwriting, and risk management teams to resolve complex issues.
- Serve as escalation point for disputes and stakeholder concerns.
- Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with insureds, agents, attorneys, and educational institutions.
- Represent the claims department in cross-functional initiatives and client meetings.
- Communicate claim trends, risks, and strategic insights to senior leadership.
- Reporting & Analytics
- Analyze claims data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
- Prepare and present reports on team performance, financial impact, and operational metrics.
- Support budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning efforts
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Bachelor’s degree or advanced certifications (e.g., AIC, CPCU) preferred.
- Minimum 7-10 years of experience in commercial claims, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
- Proven experience working with public school entities or educational institutions.
- Knowledge of various state regulations as they apply to benefits administration and claim adjudication.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- The ability to succeed and excel in a collaborative and team-based environment.
- Strong time management and desk management skills.
- Knowledge of and ability to operate efficiently in a Windows-based environment using Excel, Word, and Outlook as well as company claim administration software.
- Ability to work independently and to carry out assignments to completion.
- Growth potential beyond current role.
- Occasional travel required for field inspections, team meetings, or client visits.
Hours: Full-time, EST
Compensation: $110,000 – $180,000
Location: Cortland, NY