AVP, Surety Claims – Strategy & Leadership

W. R. Berkley; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 150,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary bonus

Health, dental, vision

Life and disability insurance

401(k) with profit-sharing

Job summary

Berkley Surety, part of W. R. Berkley Corporation, seeks an experienced claims leader to manage complex surety and construction claims in a senior capacity. You will oversee investigations, reserves, and strategy, mentoring junior staff while coordinating with underwriting and senior management.

The role emphasizes expert negotiation, ADR familiarity, and strong communication across jurisdictions. A JD, MBA or CPCU is preferred, with extensive industry experience in the US market.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in surety, legal, or construction claims.
• JD, MBA or CPCU preferred; Bar admission desirable.
• Proven leadership in complex, multi-jurisdiction claims.

Responsibilities

• Reviews and understands surety bond coverage and assesses the claim position.
• Investigates claims, assessing claimant and principal positions.
• Sets and maintains timely reserves in consultation with management.
• Develops strategies for resolution to mitigate losses.
• Maximizes salvage and subrogation opportunities.
• Provides timely, accurate reports on claims status to management.
• Supervises junior staff and mentors team members.
• Assists Head of Claims with department administration and reporting.
• Supports underwriting with risk assessments when requested.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Complex contract claims

Strategic thinking

Independent ownership

Mentoring/coaching

Negotiation

Communication skills

ADR knowledge

MS Office

Education

JD, MBA or CPCU preferred

Bar admission preferred

10+ years experience in surety/claims

Tools

MS Word

Excel

PowerPoint

BSG in-house systems

Job description

Berkley Surety, part of W. R. Berkley Corporation, seeks an experienced claims leader to manage complex surety and construction claims in a senior capacity. You will oversee investigations, reserves, and strategy, mentoring junior staff while coordinating with underwriting and senior management.

The role emphasizes expert negotiation, ADR familiarity, and strong communication across jurisdictions. A JD, MBA or CPCU is preferred, with extensive industry experience in the US market.