Claims Consultant (Construction Defect)

CNA • Downers Grove, IL

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Claims Consultant (Construction Defect) is an individual-contributor role that manages highly complex, high-exposure commercial claims nationwide across multiple lines of business. Working with substantial autonomy under general direction and within broad authority limits, the consultant coordinates claim investigation and resolution for both occurrence-based general liability policies and claims-made errors and omissions policies, following company protocols and quality and customer service standards. The role requires regular communication with customers and insureds and may be dedicated to specific accounts. The position offers a flexible hybrid work schedule and is available in any location near a CNA office.

The consultant manages complex claim investigations, evaluates coverage, liability, compensability and damages, and determines whether major claims should be settled or litigated. The position oversees investigative and litigation activities, reserves, discovery, settlement negotiations, payments and recovery coordination. It also analyzes claim activity, prepares and presents reports, advises management on claim processes and resolution strategies, and works with internal and external business partners. The consultant may provide guidance to less experienced claims staff and perform additional duties as assigned.

The role requires advanced claims and insurance expertise, strong analytical, communication, negotiation and presentation abilities, and skill in evaluating claims and developing cost-effective resolution strategies. A bachelor's degree or equivalent experience is required, along with typically at least eight years of relevant experience, preferably in a legal or claim-handling environment. The employee must have or be able to obtain and maintain an Insurance Adjuster License within 90 days of hire, where applicable.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• Typically a minimum of eight years of relevant experience, preferably in a legal or claim-handling environment.
• Must have or be able to obtain and maintain an Insurance Adjuster License within 90 days of hire, where applicable.
• Advanced technical and product-specific expertise, claim resolution skills, and knowledge of insurance and claims principles, practices and procedures.
• Strong communication, negotiation and presentation skills, and ability to interact effectively with internal and external business partners at all levels.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to prioritize multiple projects and handle ambiguous situations.
• Ability to evaluate claims using cost-benefit analysis and comprehend and articulate complex claim facts and issues in reports and presentations.
• Ability to develop and implement strategies with a proactive, long-term view of business goals and objectives.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and other business-related software.
• Ability to adapt to change and value diverse opinions and ideas.

Nice To Haves

• Professional designations, such as CPCU.

Responsibilities

• Manage highly complex claims investigations, including coverage, liability, compensability and damages issues.
• Determine whether major claims should be settled or litigated and implement appropriate resolution strategies.
• Manage loss costs and claim expenses effectively.
• Manage investigative activities and litigation for major claims, including timely posting of appropriate reserves.
• Coordinate discovery and litigation strategy with staff counsel or panel attorneys.
• Negotiate complex settlement packages and authorize payments within the scope of authority, seeking cost-effective settlements and timely disbursements.
• Coordinate third-party recovery with the subrogation and salvage unit.
• Recommend claim processes and resolution strategies to management.
• Analyze claim activity and prepare and present reports to management, internal business partners and clients.
• Work with attorneys, account representatives, agents, doctors and insureds on the handling or disposition of complex claims.
• Stay current on state and territory regulations and issues, industry activity and trends; may participate in industry trade groups.
• Provide guidance and assistance to less experienced claims staff and other functional areas.
• Enter accurate claim circumstance and other business-outcome data.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive and competitive benefits package intended to support employees' and their family members' physical, financial, emotional and social wellbeing.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior