Responsibilities
The Senior Claims Specialist is responsible for the handling, investigation, evaluation, and resolution of complex Directors & Officers (D&O) and Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) claims for non-profit organizations.
This role requires deep technical expertise in claims-made coverage forms, strong analytical and negotiation skills, and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service to insureds, brokers, and legal partners. Position will also provide guidance and feedback to the junior staff.
Claims Management
- Independently manage a portfolio of complex non-profit D&O and EPLI claims from initial notice through resolution.
- Conduct timely and thorough coverage analysis under claims-made policies, including interpretation of policy terms, conditions, exclusions, and endorsements.
- Evaluate liability, damages, and exposure to determine appropriate claim reserves and resolution strategies.
- Oversee and direct defense counsel, including litigation strategy, budgeting, and performance.
Coverage Analysis & Technical Expertise
- Apply advanced knowledge of claims-made policy structures, including reporting requirements, retroactive dates, and prior acts provisions.
- Analyze legal and factual issues across a variety of EPLI claims (e.g., discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination) and D&O exposures specific to non-profits (e.g., fiduciary duties, governance disputes).
- Issue clear, concise, and well-documented coverage correspondence, including reservation of rights and coverage determination letters.
Vendor & Stakeholder Management
- Partner closely with insureds, brokers, and internal underwriting teams to ensure coordinated claim handling.
- Retain and manage external vendors, including defense counsel, experts, and third-party administrators.
- Negotiate settlements effectively to achieve optimal outcomes while controlling costs.
Customer Service & Communication
- Provide responsive, professional, and empathetic service to policyholders and stakeholders.
- Clearly communicate claim status, coverage positions, and resolution strategies to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with brokers and insureds to enhance customer satisfaction and retention.
Compliance & Reporting
- Ensure all claims activities comply with internal guidelines, regulatory requirements, and best practices.
- Maintain accurate and timely claim file documentation and reporting.
- Participate in audits, peer reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Works with attorneys, account representatives, agents, and insureds regarding the handling and/or disposition of highly complex claims.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required; JD or advanced insurance designations (e.g., CPCU, AIC, RPLU) preferred.
Experience
- 7+ years of experience handling D&O and/or EPLI claims, with demonstrated experience in non-profit exposures preferred.
- Proven track record managing complex claims and litigation.
Technical Knowledge
- Strong expertise in claims-made insurance policies and coverage analysis.
- In-depth understanding of D&O and EPLI exposures, legal environment, and litigation processes.
Skills
- Excellent analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
- Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- High level of organizational skills and attention to detail.
Key Competencies
- Technical excellence and sound judgment
- Customer-focused mindset
- Strategic thinking and adaptability
- Collaboration and relationship management
- Accountability and ownership
Additional Company DetailsThe position is based in Naperville, IL in-office four days per week. We do not accept any unsolicited resumes from external recruiting firms. The company offers a competitive compensation plan and robust benefits package for full time regular employees which for this role includes: Base Salary Range: $135,000 - 155,000. The actual salary for this position will be determined by a number of factors, including the scope, complexity and location of the role; the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate; and other conditions of employment. This role is eligible to participate in the annual discretionary bonus program. Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability, Wellness, Paid Time Off, 401(k) and Profit-Sharing plans.
Sponsorship DetailsSponsorship not Offered for this Role
