Liability & Insurance Manager

Description:

The ideal candidate is a collaborative and strategic professional with a strong background in public sector claims management, litigation coordination, and insurance program administration. They bring a balance of analytical skills and interpersonal effectiveness, enabling them to lead a team, work closely with legal counsel, and negotiate settlements that protect the County’s interests. This individual is detail-oriented yet able to see the big picture, capable of interpreting and applying statutes, regulations, and case law to evolving liability issues. They are comfortable representing the County in legal and administrative settings, experienced in reviewing contracts for risk transfer, and adept at developing policies to mitigate exposure. The ideal candidate thrives in a leadership role, communicates with clarity and professionalism, and brings sound judgment to high-stakes decision-making.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is the second manager level in the Risk & Safety Management job family series and manages a mid-size program within a department or division or multiple small programs. Incumbents establish annual goals and priorities, influence the direction for new or revised services, programs, processes, standards, or operational plans, based upon the County’s long-term strategies. Positions have a direct impact on the work unit or program and may impact the entire department.

Examples of Duties These examples are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job and not all duties listed are necessarily performed by each individual.
 

• Manages the investigation, evaluation, and resolution of liability claims filed against the County.
• Serves at the primary contact for County Counsel and outside legal counsel on litigated claims; assists in claim defense and trial preparation; represents the County in court and before administrative bodies; and may serve as an expert witness on behalf of the County.
• Participates in claim review team meetings; establishes, reviews, and adjusts financial reserves for claims as necessary.
• Negotiates and settles claims within established authority; recommends settlement strategies for claims exceeding authority levels.
• Investigates and pursues third-party liability; tenders indemnification and defense to third parties in accordance with contractual agreements.
• Serves as the primary contact for County property losses; acts as liaison between the County, insurance carriers, adjusters, and affected departments.
• Oversees completion of insurance program renewal applications and related documentation.
• Reviews contracts, leases, and purchasing agreements to ensure compliance with the County’s risk transfer standards.
• Consults with County departments regarding loss history and risk exposure; recommends policies and practices to reduce liability.
• Supervises staff, and is responsible for conducting performance evaluations, employee development, hiring, discipline, and termination procedures.
• Analyzes new statuses, regulations, and case law to assess implications for County liabilities and risk exposures.
• Assists the Risk Manager in identifying loss trends and developing strategies, policies, or programs to mitigate future risks.
• Acts on behalf of the Risk Manager during planned and unplanned absences.
• Other related duties within the scope of the job classification.

Employment Standards Education And Experience The knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below may be acquired through various types of training, education, and experience. A typical way to acquire the required knowledge and abilities would be:
 

• Equivalent of a bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university in occupational health, safety engineering, insurance/risk management, business administration or related field and,
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience with liability claims, including investigation, assessment, and settlement practices, with at least two (2) years as a supervisor or manager in this field.