Claims Manager

Job Description

About Portage Mutual: Where Your Talent Makes a Difference

Imagine a workplace where your contributions are not only valued but also directly impact the lives of Canadians. At Portage Mutual Insurance, we’re more than just a trusted national property and casualty insurer—we’re a community of passionate individuals dedicated to serving our policyholders since 1884. Owned by our policyholders, we proudly offer competitive home, auto, commercial, and farm insurance products 100% through our broker network across Canada. Join a company rooted in tradition, driven by innovation, and powered by a people‑first culture.

Why Portage Mutual?

At Portage Mutual, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. Here, you’ll find:

• Total Rewards: We care about your well‑being and financial security. That’s why we offer a competitive salary, incentive plan, comprehensive health benefits, a pension plan and generous paid time off, including personal days.


• Career Growth & Development: Propel your career forward with access to diverse learning resources, tuition reimbursement for relevant programs, and bonuses recognizing your achievements in pursuing insurance designations.


• Flexibility: We support work‑life integration by offering a flexible environment where you can choose to live wherever you prefer in Canada. Enjoy the freedom to select remote, in‑office, and hybrid work arrangements that best suit your lifestyle.


• Inclusivity and Belonging: Be a part of a supportive and diverse team that embraces your unique perspective and empowers you to succeed. We’re dedicated to creating a workplace where every employee feels welcomed, valued and respected.


• Making a Difference: Find purpose in your career by aligning with an organization that shares your values and is committed to making a difference in the communities we serve.

What You’ll Do

The Claims Manager works with the Director of Claims – Property, sharing tasks, supervising the Claims teams and operations including assignment of claims, directing process, maintaining quality control, and providing performance feedback and reviews. They ensure the company’s claims plan is met and that the company Policies and procedures are adhered to. The Claims Manager contributes to the strategic direction of the Claims Department through discussion and implementation of new initiatives to benefit claims processes, services, and costs.

Responsibilities

• Meet consistently with team members to provide soft skill coaching and career development mentorship for the betterment and success of all team members.


• Review new losses for assignment including providing technical coaching where required.


• Supervision/examining claims files for Staff and Independent Adjusters.


• Respond to technical and procedural questions of Claims staff as needed.


• Review and approve reserve and payment requests above adjuster authorities.


• Provide input and insight on wording interpretation discussions with claims team members, underwriters, branch managers, and wording specialists.


• Respond to questions and concerns of brokers, third party insurers, and customers in an accurate and timely manner.


• Participate in audits of files for the Branch and when requested, work with the Company Audit Team to audit files for the other Branches in the company.


• Participate in discussion with Claims Management team around the standardization of departmental processes.


• Participate in researching new Claims strategic initiatives and participate on implementation teams.


• Participate in regular reviews of industry‑wide claim practices and participate in implementing related updates to claim procedural manuals and system changes.

Requirements

• Candidates must reside in Canada and be authorized to work in Canada.


• Minimum of ten (10) years experience in Claims/adjusting and three (3) years entry level supervisory experience.


• Exposure to multiple lines of insurance (personal property, commercial property, farm property and automobile).


• Strong understanding of Guidewire or ability to learn quickly required.


• In‑depth knowledge of the insurance industry, insurance claims, and insurance law and regulation.


• Strong interpersonal skills, ability to develop and maintain strong business relationships.


• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.


• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.


• Demonstrated skills with Microsoft Office Suite (specifically Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Teams) and Adobe Acrobat.


• High School Diploma required.


• CIP designation required.


• FCIP designation (or nearing completion) preferred.


• Post secondary education in business, agriculture, or insurance is required.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you’re seeking a rewarding career with a company that values its employees and is committed to making a difference, we invite you to apply! If you have the qualifications we are seeking and would thrive in a work environment where you are valued and respected, please apply!

Portage Mutual Insurance is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities during all phases of the recruiting process, including the application process. If you require accommodation because of a disability, we will work with you to meet your needs. If you are selected for an interview and require accommodation, please advise the HR representative who will consult with you to determine an appropriate accommodation.

Please submit your resume and cover letter!

We thank you for your interest in Portage Mutual Insurance, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. (No agencies please).