Senior Claims Handler - Commercial Property

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 450,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Annual leave

Development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, seeks a Senior Claims Handler to oversee complex commercial property claims from notification to settlement in a hybrid role balancing in-office and remote work.

The ideal candidate has 4+ years of experience, strong investigative and negotiation skills, and thorough knowledge of SA commercial property policies and applicable law. The role offers growth, support, and a focus on fair, efficient claims handling.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years of experience handling commercial property insurance claims.
• Strong investigative, negotiation and decision‑making abilities.
• Solid understanding of commercial property policies and SA insurance law.
• Proficiency with claims management software and office applications.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of complex commercial property claims from inception to closure.
• Investigate claims, verify coverage, assess liability, and determine damages.
• Conduct site inspections and gather evidence.
• Negotiate settlements with policyholders and legal representatives.
• Ensure compliance with policy terms and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain records in the claims management system.
• Identify subrogation or recovery opportunities.
• Mentor junior claims handlers.

Skills

Investigative skills

Negotiation

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Proficiency with claims software

Tools

Claims management software

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established insurance company, is seeking an experienced Senior Claims Handler to manage commercial property claims for their operations in Paarl, Western Cape . This challenging role involves overseeing the entire claims process for complex commercial property damage, from initial notification through to settlement. The ideal candidate will possess strong investigative, negotiation, and resolution skills, coupled with a thorough understanding of commercial property insurance policies and relevant legislation. You will be a key point of contact for policyholders, brokers, and other stakeholders, ensuring efficient and fair claims management. This hybrid position allows for a blend of in-office engagement and remote flexibility, supporting our client's commitment to both operational excellence and employee well-being in the Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

Manage a portfolio of complex commercial property claims from inception to closure. Investigate claims thoroughly, including verifying coverage, assessing liability, and determining damages. Conduct site inspections when necessary and gather relevant documentation and evidence. Negotiate settlements with policyholders, legal representatives, and other involved parties. Ensure compliance with policy terms, conditions, and relevant legal and regulatory requirements. Provide clear and timely communication to all stakeholders regarding claim status and progress. Appoint and manage external service providers, such as loss adjusters and legal counsel, when required. Maintain accurate and detailed records of all claims activities within the claims management system. Identify potential subrogation or recovery opportunities. Mentor junior claims handlers and share expertise to enhance team capabilities.

Requirements

A minimum of 4 years of experience handling commercial property insurance claims. Demonstrated expertise in investigating, evaluating, and negotiating complex claims. Comprehensive understanding of commercial property insurance policies, perils, and South African insurance law. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills. Proficiency in claims management software and standard office applications. Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities. Adaptability to a hybrid work environment, balancing remote tasks with in-office collaboration in Paarl . Relevant industry qualifications or certifications are a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, complemented by performance-based bonuses. Employees are eligible for comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and generous annual leave. Opportunities for ongoing professional development and career progression within the insurance sector are provided. Join a supportive team in Paarl and make a significant impact on our client's claims service delivery in the Western Cape .