Claims Manager

About Us:

EquiTrust Life Insurance Company is a national carrier of competitive, client-friendly annuity products sold through a variety of distribution channels, including more than 20,000 independent agents and independent marketing organizations (IMOs). Since 2003, we have provided exceptional customer service to our clients by operating with integrity and passion. Our efforts are supported by a dedicated workforce who execute their responsibilities through teamwork and an entrepreneurial spirit. EquiTrust sells products nationwide and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with operations in West Des Moines,

How You’ll Contribute

As a Claims Manager, you will lead and develop a team responsible for life and annuity claims administration, including death claims and contractual living benefits. You’ll provide strategic and day-to-day leadership to ensure claims are handled accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with service standards and regulatory requirements.

This role partners closely with Policy Administration, Information Technology, Compliance, Legal, Tax, Actuarial, and other business teams to improve processes, manage risk, implement regulatory changes, and enhance the customer experience.

We’re looking for a collaborative people leader who brings strong claims or insurance operations experience, sound judgment, analytical thinking, and a continuous improvement mindset.

What You’ll Do

• Lead, coach, and develop the Claims team, providing ongoing feedback, performance management, training, and development opportunities.
• Oversee life and annuity claims, including death claims, contractual living benefits, annuitizations, Accelerated Death Benefits, Income for Life, Long-Term Care benefits, and other complex claims.
• Establish department goals and service standards while monitoring workloads, staffing, productivity, and performance metrics.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on complex or escalated claims and customer service matters.
• Ensure claims operations comply with applicable regulations, tax requirements, internal policies, procedures, and controls.
• Analyze operational data and trends to identify opportunities to improve service, efficiency, productivity, and the customer experience.
• Lead process improvements, system enhancements, and regulatory or legislative changes impacting claims administration.
• Partner across the organization to identify and mitigate operational, regulatory, financial, and reputational risks.
• Support internal and external audits and ensure appropriate documentation and controls are maintained.
• Manage staffing needs and provide input into budgeting and resource planning.

What You’ll Bring

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Business, Insurance, Finance, Accounting, or a related field preferred.

Experience:

• 5 years of experience in life insurance, annuities, financial services, claims administration, or a related insurance operations role.
• 3 years of supervisory or people leadership experience.
• Experience interpreting contracts, regulations, and complex business processes.
• Claims operations experience, including death claims, contractual living benefits, annuitizations, and life insurance claims.
• Experience leading operational change, such as staffing analysis, workflow management, budgeting, productivity reporting, system enhancements, or audit support.
• LOMA designation preferred, or ability to obtain an applicable LOMA designation within two years of hire.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
• Ability to interpret claims-related tax impacts and regulatory requirements.
• Strong decision-making skills, including the ability to navigate complex or ambiguous situations.
• Ability to prioritize competing needs, manage multiple initiatives, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to build relationships, influence others, and collaborate effectively across the organization.
• Strong project management skills and a continuous improvement mindset.
• Ability to identify operational risks and develop practical solutions.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to learn and navigate multiple systems and technology platforms.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform primarily computer-based work, including prolonged sitting, viewing a computer screen, communicating verbally, and using a keyboard and other office equipment.
• Occasional standing, walking, reaching, bending, and lifting/carrying up to 20 pounds.
• Position is based in West Des Moines, Iowa, with infrequent business travel of less than 5%.

Total Rewards:
In addition to base pay, eligible employees may receive an annual discretionary incentive bonus and access to a competitive benefits package including: 

• Medical, Dental & Vision coverage:
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Paid time off: Vacation, Sick, Holiday, and more
• Paid Parental Leave for both Mothers and Fathers
• Hybrid/Remote Work Options
• Early Friday Closure

EquiTrust is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the U.S. Federal E-Verify program. Applicants have rights under federal and state employment laws. To learn more, visit EquiTrust Careers. 

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