Claims Counsel - Surety

Skyward Specialty

3d•$155,000 - $175,000•Remote

About The Position

This position is responsible for managing complex surety claims and providing legal support to underwriting and business leadership. Success requires strong surety claims experience, legal judgment, business acumen, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced remote environment.

Requirements

Minimum 2+ years’ experience in surety bond claims handling.
J.D. from an ABA accredited law school required

Nice To Haves

Prior experience "in-house" in the surety claims department of an insurance company, is preferred.
State Claims Adjuster license strongly preferred
Past or present membership in ABA/TIPS/FSLC a plus.

Responsibilities

Independently adjust claims on complex contract and commercial surety bonds in multiple jurisdictions in a timely, thorough, and professional manner.
Select, retain, and manage outside surety claims counsel and related resources (including consultants, accountants, expert witnesses, etc.) to effectuate best possible claim outcomes.
Set well-reasoned reserves and control claims-handling costs and expenses
Attend meditations, arbitrations and trials as needed and appropriate.
Draft claim reports for UW & management.
Assist in the creation or revision of surety claim and/or underwriting forms and documents as may be necessary.
Assist underwriters with the “front end” of surety transactions, for example by drafting indemnity, collateral, and related agreements, and/or reviewing or manuscripting bond forms, in a fast-paced environment with short turn-around times.
Develop legal resource and training materials for Skywardsurety.
Provide education and training to surety underwriting (and other selected company staff) on key legal issues involving surety bonds and claims, including “lessons learned” from past surety claim experiences and outcomes.
Research, analyze, and provide timely updates on legal developments in the surety field.
Promote a culture of personal responsibility, accountability and open communication.
Ensure fair and ethical policies and practices in all relationships and operations.
Other duties that may be assigned as appropriate.