Claims Manager

Perdue Farms is a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we're committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

Summary

Protect the business while driving effective risk management and claims excellence across the organization. As a Claims Manager, you will lead the strategic oversight of the company's casualty, workers' compensation, auto liability, general liability, and property claims programs, ensuring claims are investigated, managed, and resolved efficiently while minimizing financial exposure and maintaining regulatory compliance. You will partner closely with Safety, Operations, Legal, Finance, insurance carriers, third-party administrators, and outside counsel to strengthen claims outcomes, support loss control initiatives, and enhance the organization's overall risk management strategy. This role is ideal for a strategic, analytical leader who excels at managing complex claims, building strong cross-functional partnerships, and driving data-informed decisions that protect both people and business. This position is based in Salisbury, MD, with minimal travel required.

The salary range for this position is $89,000 - $133,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance).

In addition to the base salary, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term

Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Manage third-party administrator performance, control claim costs, and manage adjustment expenses.
• Organize and direct the cost-effective resolution of casualty claims.
• Coordinate the accounting and financial management of casualty claims.
• Evaluate and authorize the defense and settlement of disputed claims.
• Directly control the adjustment of high-value claims.
• Manage claim investigations, settlements, and litigation.
• Manage legal matters arising from casualty claim activity.
• Arrange appropriate legal representation and control legal expenses.
• Maintain knowledge of laws and regulations affecting exposures and ensure compliance with statutory reporting obligations.
• Review reservations of rights issued by carriers and coordinate responses.
• Manage high-severity and complex claims through resolution.
• Review and approve reserves, settlements, and litigation strategies.
• Oversee third-party administrators and insurance carriers.
• Analyze claim data and prepare loss trend reports.
• Coordinate major property damage and catastrophe losses.
• Directly supervise Claims Analysts and Claims Coordinators.
• Establish performance expectations and provide coaching.
• Manage relationships with third-party administrators, carriers, brokers, forensic accountants, adjusters, and defense counsel.
• Partner with Safety and Operations on loss control planning, including auto, workers' compensation, and property programs.
• Assist the Safety Department with accident investigations.
• Assist with occupational and fleet policy changes.
• Assist with business continuity planning.
• Monitor banking arrangements with third-party administrators and fronting companies.
• Analyze and report on loss reserves.
• Review and approve all claim payments.
• Provide information to the General Ledger for proper accounting and allocation of claims transactions.
• Maintain accurate claims history and databases.
• Prepare and distribute high-value and product liability claim reports.
• Analyze claim trends and development.

Minimum Education and Experience

• 2-5 years of related experience in claims, risk management, insurance, finance, or a related field.
• Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to communicate professionally with third-party administrators and company contacts.
• Demonstrate knowledge of risk management systems.
• Projects and assignments may change based on leadership needs and requirements.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in business administration or a related field.
• Experience with contract language to ensure adequate limits and indemnification.
• Experience reviewing certificates of insurance against contracts to ensure compliance with requested limits.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

• Position is primarily sedentary but may require occasional movement to other offices or buildings.
• May need to move light equipment or supplies from one location to another.
• May need to access files, supplies, and equipment.
• Work is performed in an office, open-partitioned, cubicle environment.

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Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.