California Homeowners Claims Manager

Windward Risk Managers•Boca Raton, FL

93d•$125,000 - $150,000

About The Position

Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced Excess and Surplus Homeowners Claims Manager to lead and develop and oversee our California property claims operations. This role operates under the direction of the VP of Claims and is responsible for building key elements of the California claims program, managing day-to-day claims handling, ensuring compliance with California’s statutory requirements, and driving best-in-class claims service.

Requirements

Minimum 7+ years of property claims experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
Knowledge and experience with CA Homeowners Litigation.
Strong expertise in California homeowners claims handling and deep familiarity with the state’s statutory requirements.
Proven ability to manage teams / vendors, resolve complex claims, and deliver outstanding policyholder service.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and decision-making skills.
Proficiency in claims management systems and data analysis tools.
Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Preferred candidate based in western US to support PST time zone working hours
Travel required for catastrophe response, vendor management and internal management meetings.

Nice To Haves

Experience with catastrophe claims (wildfire, wind, water) highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Develop, manage and direct the California Homeowners property claims program, including independent adjusting firms and service vendors.
Provide technical guidance on coverage analysis, investigations, liability determinations, loss estimating, and settlement negotiations.
Ensure timely and fair resolution of claims in accordance with policy terms and California Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations (10 CCR §2695.1 et seq.).
Work in conjunction with the Claims Litigation department in the management of disputed and litigated claims.
Monitor and enforce compliance with statutory requirements, including excess & surplus lines homeowners claims handling standards.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of California claims statutes, timelines (e.g., acknowledgment within 15 days, acceptance/denial within 40 days), and reporting obligations.
Partner with Legal and Compliance teams to respond to external inquiries, escalations, or audits.
Develop and refine claims handling processes, performance metrics, compliance processes, and quality assurance programs.
Oversee use of independent adjusters, contractors, appraisers, and other vendors to ensure cost-effective, high-quality service.
Leverage claims technology, data, and analytics to drive efficiency, identify trends, and improve customer outcomes.
Recruit, coach, and mentor internal or vendor staff, fostering a high-performance, customer-centric culture.
Conduct regular training on compliance, claims best practices, and emerging risks (wildfires, floods, litigation trends, etc.).
Lead by example in demonstrating professionalism, ethical standards, and policyholder advocacy.
Collaborate with senior leadership to set claims strategies and budgets for California homeowners business.
Contribute insights on risk trends, catastrophe response readiness, and market conditions.
Support expansion initiatives and integration with existing operations.