Complex Claims Specialist - Professional Liability (Accountants)

CNA Insurance•Downers Grove, IL

12d•$54,000 - $103,000•Hybrid

About The Position

CNA is seeking a Complex Claims Specialist to manage accountants and accounting firms’ professional liability claims nationwide. The role handles approximately 130 pending Accounting Professional Liability claims and, under moderate direction and within defined authority limits, manages commercial claims of moderate to high complexity and exposure. The specialist evaluates coverage, investigates liability and damages, establishes reserves, develops resolution strategies, negotiates and settles claims, directs litigation, and authorizes claim disbursements. The position requires regular communication with customers and insureds and adherence to company protocols, quality standards, customer-service expectations, and regulatory requirements. This position follows a flexible hybrid schedule, with work in one of the listed CNA office locations two days per week. The role may also include mentoring or coaching less experienced claim professionals and performing additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
Typically at least four years of relevant experience, preferably in claims handling or in a law firm handling professional liability matters.
Candidates who have completed the CNA Claim Training Program may be considered with at least two years of claim-handling experience.
Must have or be able to obtain and maintain an Insurance Adjuster License within 90 days of hire, where applicable.
Solid working knowledge of the commercial insurance industry, products, policy language, coverage, and claims practices.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to build positive working relationships and present information to customers, claimants, and senior management.
Ability to develop collaborative relationships with internal and external work partners.
Ability to exercise independent judgment, solve moderately complex problems, and make sound business decisions.
Investigative experience, analytical mindset, and critical-thinking skills.
Strong work ethic, time-management skills, and organizational skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment while maintaining high productivity.
Developing ability to negotiate low- to moderately complex settlements.
Adaptability to a changing environment.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn business-related software.
Ability to value diverse opinions and ideas.

Nice To Haves

Juris Doctor (JD).
Professional designations, such as CPCU.

Responsibilities

Manage a portfolio of moderate- to high-complexity commercial claims by verifying policy coverage, investigating claims, developing resolution strategies, and authorizing disbursements within authority limits.
Communicate professionally and effectively with insureds, claimants, and business partners; provide timely updates and respond to inquiries and information requests.
Review and interpret policy language, partner with coverage counsel on complex matters, estimate claim values, and establish timely and adequate reserves.
Investigate compensability, liability, and covered damages by gathering relevant documents and information, taking recorded statements, and working with experts and other parties as needed.
Build and maintain working relationships with internal and external partners, suppliers, and experts involved in resolving claims.
Determine liability and compensability, negotiate settlements, authorize claim disbursements within authority limits, and escalate matters to a manager when appropriate.
Manage expenses by resolving claims promptly and accurately, selecting and overseeing appropriate resources, and delivering high-quality service.
Identify potential subrogation or salvage opportunities and possible fraud, and refer matters to Recovery or SIU resources as appropriate.
Meet file quality and cycle-time standards, follow company guidelines, maintain proper documentation, and issue appropriate claim disbursements.
Comply with state and local regulatory requirements and stay current on commercial insurance laws, regulations, and industry trends.
May mentor or coach less experienced claim professionals.
Perform additional duties as assigned.