Asbestos/Environmental Senior Technical Claims Specialist

Argo Group is seeking a Senior-level experienced Complex Claims Specialist to work in our Chicago (IL), Los Angeles (CA), New York City (NY), Omaha (NE), Richmond (VA), Rockwood (PA), or San Antonio (TX) office.  This role is responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of highly complex asbestos, environmental and other types of toxic tort claims, as well as sexual abuse cases. This is an individual contributor role for a candidate recognized as a technical and legal expert in the interpretation of complex or unusual policy coverages in area of general liability insurance coverage as it relates to asbestos, environmental, other types of toxic tort claims, and sexual abuse claims. This candidate will work within assigned limits of broad authority on assignments requiring a high degree of technical and legal complexity and coordination. This position reports to the SVP of Legacy and Reinsurance Claims, located in Chicago.

The primary duties and responsibilities of the role are:

• Works on highly complex investigations of claims, analyzes coverage, liability, compensability and damages. Determines if a major claim should be settled or litigated.
• Manages all types of investigative activity on major claims. Coordinates discovery and litigation strategy with staff counsel or panel attorneys.
• Negotiates highly complex settlement packages, sets reserves and authorizes payment within scope of authority, settling claims in most cost effective manner and ensuring timely issuance of disbursements.
• Coordinates third party recovery with subrogation/salvage unit.
• Makes recommendations on claim management policies and processes to management.
• Analyzes claims activities; prepares and presents reports to management.
• Works with attorneys, co-carriers, brokers and insureds regarding the handling and/or disposition of highly complex claims.
• Keeps current on state/territory regulations, case law and issues, as well as industry activity and trends. May participate in industry trade groups.
• May provide guidance and assistance to less experienced claims staff and other functional areas, including ceded reinsurance.
• May be responsible for special claims projects and presentations

Core qualifications and requirements for this position include:

• Must have good business acumen (i.e. understand how an insurance company works and makes money, including how this role impacts both Argo Group and our customers’ ability to be profitable).
• A specialized knowledge of highly complex asbestos, environmental sexual abuse, and toxic tort claims, typically achieved through:
  • At least seven years of general liability claim adjudication/management experience with an emphasis on the adjudication of asbestos, environmental liability, sexual abuse, and other types of toxic torts claims
  • Juris Doctorate (JD) Degree and preferably bar admission in at least one jurisdiction
• Independent decision maker – takes full responsibility for making decisions keeping risk and compliance at the center of the process. Makes decisions with data driven tools and information.
• A strong focus on execution in getting things done right.  Proven ability to consistently produce and deliver expected results to all stakeholders by:
  • Finding a way to achieve success through adversity.
  • Being solution (not problem) focused
  • Thinking with a global mindset first.
• Successful traits (flexibility, ability to thrive in change, being resourceful on your own) necessary to work in a fast paced environment that is evolving constantly.
• Demonstrates active listening and proactive communication by listening first, and then preparing carefully before engaging in conversation to communicate well thought out feedback.
• Ability to build rapport and foster collaborative, productive relationships with business partners and organizational peers with a focus on timely and meaningful exchanges of information and providing value-added solutions.
• The courage to offer and support others to express different opinions and ideas, regardless of popularity or immediate acceptable.
• Excellent evaluation and strategic skills required.
• Effective time management skills and ability to prioritize workload while handling multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Ability to articulate the financial value of your work at multiple responsibility levels inside our clients’ business which may include CEO.
• Must work independently and demonstrate the ability to exercise sound judgment.
• Demonstrates inner strength. Has the courage to do the right thing and demonstrates it on a daily basis.
• Exhibit natural and intellectual curiosity. Consistently considers all options and is not governed by conventional thinking.
• Proficient in MS Office Suite and other business-related software.
• Polished and professional written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to read and write English fluently is required.
• Must demonstrate a desire for continued professional development through continuing education and self-development opportunities.

The base salary range provided below is for hires in those geographic areas only and will be commensurate with candidate experience. Pay ranges for candidates in other locations may differ based on the cost of labor in that location. In addition to base salary, all employees are eligible for an annual bonus based on company and individual performance as well as a generous benefits package.