Insurance And Claims Officer- Remote Team

This is a remote position.

Working with Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM) means partnering with one of the worlds leading third-party ship managers.

As a multinational, family-owned business, we celebrate a culture of togetherness. Caring for and learning from each other is at the base of our success. Our superpower is our diversity. The wealth of more than 80 nationalities and diverse expert knowledge boosts our capacity to innovate and take industry standards to the next level.

The BSM family includes over 20,000 seafarers and 2,000 shore-based staff in more than 30 locations and across the oceans. Together, we move a fleet of over 650 vessels and help hundreds of ship owners trade cargo all around the world safely and efficiently. We see it as our highest responsibility to operate with greatest respect to the integrity of the environment, the vessels, and our people.

Are you interested in exciting career opportunities, personal growth, and great development options in an international fast-paced working environment Then join the BSM family!

Were looking forward to meeting you!

Job Objective

Key insurance and claims contact for local SMC (Ship Management Center). Executes on day-to-day administration and management activities in respect of all insurance and claims issues in a timely and effective manner. Trains the fleet teams and provides support to the management of local SMC. Reports functionally to the Group Insurance and Claims Manager. Ensure that SMC clients interests are protected at all times and any claims are best resolved and promptly reimbursed.

Key Responsibilities

Claims Handling

• Early involvement from the time an incident occurs until closure of the claim. Handling of all claims in co-operation with the fleet teams of local SMC and P&I Clubs/Brokers including but not limited to H&M / Loss of Hire, P&I claims, general average, disputes, legal proceedings, recovery against third party, etc. Ensure prompt claim notification to the insurers and monitor the progress of the claim.
• Close communication with SMC fleet management for prompt claim notification to the insurers and further follow-up. Ensure claims reserves are always in line with the insurers figures and argue on any discrepancies.
• Liaising with Brokers, P&I Clubs, Underwriters and Average Adjusters in order to resolve claims in the most cost efficient and timely manner.
• Investigate causation and quantum of alleged claims against the Owner/Manager in collaboration with SMC Fleet Teams. Mitigate exposure by use of all available defenses and immunities within laws and regulations.
• Ensure that all claims are properly recorded in PAL Insurance. Review claims every month.

Loss Prevention

• Analyse claims data and identify risk clusters. Communicate results and propose solutions to group insurance team for implementation in coordination with other BSM departments.
• Communicate loss prevention circulars and risk alerts to the relevant departments within the SMC or within BSM. Receive and analyse external sources of claim losses.

Vessels Insurance Certificates

• Check and ensure that BSM is named co-assured on the relevant insurance policies
• Apply and provide additional trading insurance certificates to the vessels (CLC, BCLC, WRLC, MLC, COFR, ITOPF, etc.)
• Obtain amended insurance certificates in case there are any material changes to the vessel e.g. ownership, name, etc.

Local SMC Insurance Tasks and Responsibilities

• Local SMC overall responsibility in respect of quarterly, actual / forecast reports and budgets as well as sub-total insurance costs, H&M deductibles in PAL Financial Reporting tool for Schulte owned fleet.
• Trains fleet teams in best practice claims handling and policy terms and conditions, especially German Hull DTV ADS Rules.
• Provide briefing about marine insurances to new joining vessel Masters for local SMC.
• Monitor and report vessels entering HRA / calling excluded ports on time. Obtain and provide quotations for additional war risks cover / K&R for excluded areas.
• Prepare and submit monthly crew declaration report for the BSM Crew P&I slip to the responsible Insurance and Claims Officer for submission to the club prior 20th of each calendar month.
• Analyse SMC claims data, identify risks clusters and propose suggestions to reduce claims / losses respectively.

Education & Work Experience:

• Degree in marine-related fields. Degree in law particularly in shipping law, is an advantage
• Min. 5 years work experience in marine claims handling; good knowledge of P&I rules and marine insurance covers and conditions

• Very good understanding of marine insurance industry, markets and marine insurance practice
• Strong knowledge of ship operations and management
• Strong knowledge and understanding of various local and international laws relevant to the maritime industry
• Analytical thinking
• Able to work independently, under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Good communication skills and good negotiation abilities
• Good time management and organisational skills
• Fluency in English and computer literate

Why you should join us!

• Career development opportunities
• Technical and soft skills training
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage
• Annual performance bonus
• Diverse workforce
• Competitive compensation package
• Flexible work opportunities
• Technology-driven company
• Be a part of the ever-growing Schulte group family!