UFG is currently hiring for Surety Claims Counsel to apply advanced level knowledge of Surety Contract and Commercial Claims to a portfolio of cases varying in size and scope. You will investigate, evaluate and settle claims in a fair and efficient manner. You will also negotiate, analyze, resolve and manage Surety claims, ensuring customer satisfaction and loss ratio goals.

Responsibilities:  

Demonstrate and exercise an understanding of Surety bonds and industry, including the terms and conditions of UFG Insurance’s liabilities under bonds and applicable laws and regulations, by investigating and negotiating claims; analyzing financial data and contractual obligations; making a reserve recommendation; determining an appropriate course of action and managing the case to a successful resolution. Establish reserves and draft reports to management and actuarial partners related to reserves and settlement rationale.  Directs the claims and recovery efforts, both directly and through the assignment to outside consultants, accountants, financial advisors, construction engineers and legal counsel. Claim duties may include some or all of the following: investigating defaults and making recommendations in determining which strategy would be appropriate for Surety to implement. setting accurate reserves and recommending adjustments as warranted. implementing the default strategies. investigating difficult claim issues, including bid protests, payment surety claims, defective specifications, contract modifications, terminations, liens and fraud questions. and analyzing recovery prospects from indemnitors, principals, owners and third parties and then recommends and implements appropriate action and then pursues vigorously until close out. Evaluate and settles complex contract Surety claims within delegated authority and aligned. Draft and review legal documents (e.g., contracts, insurance policies, leases) involving Surety Claims; Manage outside counsel in connection with litigation; Represent the Company before regulatory and administrative bodies; Provide advice regarding the implications of new laws substantially impacting the Company's business; and anticipate legal issues and encourage practices to prevent problems from arising. Identify and escalate potential high exposure claims and provide recommendations as Identify and make recommendations to assigned outside counsel as needed. Stay abreast of state statutes and regulations regarding surety claims. Maintain current knowledge of legal issues and developments in the law. Maintain appropriate communication with key internal stakeholders, including underwriting and legal. Participate in operational, development, training projects, initiatives, and presentations as requested or assigned. Provide business support for underwriters, agents and accounts, including contract and bond reviews and risk mitigation presentations. This position is a resource to and has influence on a team of non-attorney claims representatives. Responsible for other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: 

Education:

Bachelor's degree required Juris Doctorate degree required, with a current attorney's license

Certifications/Designations:

Holds current claims adjuster license in Texas and Florida (or can obtain requisite licenses as needed)

Experience:

Experience managing the most complex surety claims involving multiple bonds In-depth knowledge and experience working at a Surety Company or Surety Law Firm representing Surety Companies specifically highly preferred

Knowledge, skills & abilities:

Knowledge of private, state and federal laws that are applicable to surety claims and transactional matters Strong written and verbal communication as well as research Demonstrated ability to balance competing priorities

Working Conditions:

General office environment