Claims Casualty Manager at Utica First Insurance Company – Oriskany, New York

Job Summary:

The Claims Casualty Manager oversees a team of claims adjusters and manages complex claims for a variety of policies, including general liability, homeowners, and business owners’ policies. This role is responsible for managing the claims process from start to finish, ensuring policy interpretation and coverage analysis, setting claim reserves, and working to achieve timely and cost-effective resolutions. They also conduct data analysis to identify trends, provide insights to other departments, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Reports to: Vice President of Claims

Duties and Responsibilities Include (but not limited to):

· Manage the entire claims process, from initial notification to final resolution, while ensuring the team follows best practices.

· Provide direction and technical expertise to claims adjusters, especially for complex or litigated cases.

· Analyze and interpret insurance policies to determine coverage, ensuring claims are overseen in accordance with their terms and

conditions.

· Oversee claim reserves, monitor file allocations, and other expenses to ensure appropriateness.

· Build and maintain strong relationships with internal colleagues, external customers, brokers, and other relevant parties to

promote quality customer experience.

· Ensure the claims process complies with all legal, regulatory, and internal control requirements.

· Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performance team, and promote UFI Culture and values.

· Set up and conduct adjuster audit to monitor KPI’s and Company procedures.

· Respond to insurance department complaints.

· Perform supervisor and clerical reviews.

· Review and approve coverage disclaimer letters, large loss notices and 11-month reports.

· Identify and put in place training needs.

· Assist VP of claims when needed.

· Strong knowledge of the insurance industry, including various lines of liability insurance.

· Proficiency in policy interpretation, coverage analysis, and claims management software.

· Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.

· Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Education and Experience:

· Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred.

· Professional designations such as CPCU, AIC, SCLA, or equivalent strongly preferred.

· 8+ years of progressive claims experience in the Casualty insurance industry

· Significant leadership experience managing large, multi-line claims operations.

· Deep expertise in claims handling, litigation management, reserving practices, and regulatory compliance.

Physical Requirements:

This position requires the ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer in an office environment. The role involves frequent use of a headset, keyboard, mouse, and other standard office equipment. Occasional movement within the office may be required, such as walking to meetings or accessing shared equipment.

Please note, this position is in-person at our Oriskany, NY location.