Under the general direction of the Executive Director, Risk Management, the Director, Claim Services provides leadership and expertise in claim and litigation management and provides analytical services which allow the schools, colleges, and administrative units to effectively minimize losses.  The Director will provide strategic leadership and operational management for the Claims Services staff and interact routinely with other members of Compliance and Risk Services to optimize support for University programs.

Claims occur most frequently in the areas of professional liability, employment practices, general and auto liability, with lower frequency in workers' compensation, marine protection and indemnity and first party property claims.

The Claim Services staff manages claims in accordance with applicable laws and regulations and pursuant to the delegations granted to the department through the Standing Orders of the Board of Regents.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage the operational, planning and personnel activities of the claims program, including assignment of claims, supervision and training of claims staff, managing individual case load, and management of the liability and workers compensation programs.
• Develop and execute communication strategies with internal clients, insurers, adjusters, and service providers so that information needs are met and claims outcomes are optimized.
• Develop and implement best practices for claims programs, with special attention to the compliance responsibilities of a public entity.  Stay abreast of national and local trends and analyze pertinent state and national legislation.
• Maintain effective, positive communication with outside counsel, the Attorney General’s Office, reinsurers, UW Medicine leadership, Clinical Risk Management, Human Resources, the Department of Labor and Industries, and other strategic partners.
• Develop and maintain optimal claims management and recovery tracking systems.  Ensure data integrity and sufficiency, and establish electronic links with key partners.  Develop and implement procedures necessary for the data and document collection, communication, and retention necessary for Portage Bay Insurance, underwriters, actuaries, auditors, and regulators.  Ensure that data and work processes are compliant with state and federal privacy laws.
• Develop, present, and lead presentations to Boards, etc. on claims and litigation.
• Ensure pursuit of recoveries from available sources and compliance with all contractual requirements necessary to ensure recoveries.  Direct the work of coverage counsel when required.
• Oversee work of staff and third-party administrators and adjusters.
• Continue development and support for a culture of accountability, compliance and customer service across Claims Services.
• Work with insurance brokers and other advisors to manage claims program effectively and efficiently.
• Participate in the leadership of the Compliance and Risk Services with attention to integration of selected management techniques into the claims program and operations.
• Serve on University committees and task forces at leadership's request.
• Develop and sustain effective working relationships with units across the University, emphasizing proactive, productive partnerships that support excellence.

Requirements include:

• Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 6 years' experience in multi-line, complex claim and litigation management
• Knowledge of relevant federal and state laws, regulations, and case law
• Experience with sophisticated risk analysis and loss reduction techniques
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and insurance industry standards
• Demonstrated skill in oral and written communications
• Experience in supervision of claims staff
• Excellent interpersonal skills in interactions with clients and co-workers, and a history of positive participation in team efforts
• Knowledge of and experience with relational databases and other computing systems;
• Demonstrated attention to excellent client service.
• Must have strong judgment and decision-making skills and be able to prioritize work with limited supervision.
• Must have strong abilities to multi-task and to work in a stressful environment with constantly changing deadlines.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.

Desired:

• Juris Doctor degree
• Extensive experience with medical malpractice and/or employment practices liability claims
• Experience working with public entities.