Risk Manager job in Chicago at Corporate

The Risk Manager has responsibility for corporate risk management and the claims program while building strong partnerships with internal stakeholders and vendors. Develops strategies to mitigate the exposure of claims and lawsuits resulting from the insurable risk areas of workers' compensation, auto liability, property, general and product liability, management liability and miscellaneous business policies for current and legacy claims. Leads the insurance renewal and budgeting process, including obtaining exposure information, crafting submissions and collaborating with brokers on the insurance placement pricing, structure and limits for all insurance policies and service agreements. Serves as risk adviser to business partners on insurance and indemnification issues. Provides monthly reports and analysis to internal stakeholders.

As the only nationally branded hardlines wholesaler that celebrates independent retailers.

Our culture:

• Embraces personal and professional development
• Values diverse perspectives
• Provides competitive compensation
• Committed to volunteerism and community outreach

Your Value = Our Value.

Position Description

Responsibilities (May perform other duties and responsibilities, as assigned).

Claims and Litigation Management:
Direct the handling of all claims for the corporation - workers' compensation, general liability, property, cargo, etc. Develop and monitor claim reporting policies and procedures and Third Party Administrator (TPA) guidelines. Conduct audits and quarterly claim reviews. Review TPA reserves, settlement requests and extends authority within defined limits. Provide an analysis and recommendation to senior management if above stated authority or if high exposure, high profile or of a sensitive nature. Formulate a defense strategy based on evaluation of liability, damages, state jurisdiction, legal expenses and settlement potential to move claims to resolution and ultimately reduce costs. Attendance at mediations, arbitrations and/or trials either telephonically or in person (if required). Partner with Company General Counsel on the defense of toxic tort and product lawsuits. Conduct training for Human Resources, Operations Managers, and other front-line staff on workers' compensation claims handling and execution of the light duty policy. Collaborate with legal, HR and Benefits on issues involving ADA and/or STD/LTD. Serve as technical resource to field management and other business units on insurance and claims issues.

Insurance Administration:
Maintain and manage relationships with brokers to facilitate understanding of Company's business needs and to resolve issues. Lead the annual insurance renewal process, including working with internal business partners to collect data under the direction of the DVP & Treasurer. Prepare underwriting submissions. Assist with insurance placement pricing, structure, limits and retention levels of insurance programs. Communicate final placement details and instructions to brokers. Supervise the preparation of casualty program audits. Evaluate services, negotiate pricing, and conduct Request For Proposals (as necessary) of brokers, TPAs and actuarial firms. Prepare budget and allocation of insurance costs. Provide technical guidance on insurance-related contractual provisions.

Data Management and Reporting:
Utilize the RMIS systems to obtain historical loss data for submission to actuary in preparing company's loss forecast and in the development of ad hoc reports for distribution to the field, to identify trends and appropriate cost containment techniques. Oversee the Certificate of Insurance process to ensure compliance with company requirements, to provide recommendations or evaluate exceptions. Advise risk position on driver qualifications. Prepare periodic dashboard reports regarding claim activity, trends and exposures. Approve payments for expenses within authority limits. On-call Business Continuity Plan (BCP) contact for property claims. Periodic travel to Regional Distribution Centers for meetings with on site management, TPAs and medical facilities.

Position Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Seven to ten years of of experience, preferably in Risk Management at a wholesale distribution/retail organization
• Insurance Claims Management and Insurance Placement experience required
• License or certification - Associate in Risk Management designation, Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter or Certified Risk Manager designation desirable
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience

Travel

• Travel may vary in length and duration

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.