South Africa: Insurance Claims Handler

Role Overview The Claims Handler serves as the initial point of contact for customers reporting an incident, accident, loss, or insurance claim. This role is pivotal in delivering an exceptional customer experience while accurately gathering and assessing claim information. Capturing comprehensive and precise details at First Notification of Loss (FNOL) is essential, as it directly influences claim outcomes and customer satisfaction throughout the claims journey. Key Responsibilities Claims Intake & Investigation Receive inbound calls, emails, and online claim notifications from policyholders and third parties. Accurately capture detailed information regarding incidents, losses, accidents, injuries, and damages. Verify policyholder information and assess claim eligibility in line with client procedures. Obtain and review supporting evidence, including documentation, photographs, and witness statements where necessary. Conduct initial liability and coverage assessments promptly and thoroughly. Identify and escalate potentially fraudulent, complex, or vulnerable customer cases appropriately. Ensure all claim details are recorded accurately within the claims management system. Customer Service Provide empathetic, professional, and clear communication as the first point of contact during potentially stressful situations. Explain the claims process, outline next steps, and set clear customer expectations. Maintain regular communication and provide timely updates throughout the claims process. Deliver customer service aligned with UK regulatory standards and best practises. Claims Administration Create and maintain comprehensive, accurate claim files. Process all documentation within agreed service level agreements. Liaise effectively with insurers, repairers, solicitors, medical providers, engineers, and other relevant third parties. Coordinate inspections, repairs, recovery services, replacement vehicles, and other claim-related requirements. Ensure compliance with GDPR, FCA regulations, and company policies at all times. Performance & Compliance Achieve productivity, quality, and service level targets consistently. Adhere strictly to all regulatory and compliance requirements. Maintain high standards of data accuracy and quality assurance. Engage proactively in coaching, training, and continuous improvement initiatives. Escalate complaints, vulnerable customer cases, and complex claims in accordance with established procedures. Essential Skills & Experience Essential Minimum 12 years experience in one or more of the following areas: Insurance claims handling; Contact centre operations; or Customer service within a regulated environment. Excellent verbal and written English communication skills. Strong attention to detail and accurate data capture abilities. Ability to build rapport and demonstrate empathy effectively. Proven problem-solving and decision-making skills. Comfortable working with multiple systems and technology platforms. Availability to work UK business hours from Durban. Desirable Previous experience within UK insurance or claims environments. Exposure to motor, property, liability, or personal injury claims handling. Knowledge of FCA regulations and Treating Customers Fairly (TCF) principles. Experience managing vulnerable customers sensitively and appropriately. Key Competencies Customer Focus Active Listening Empathy Attention to Detail Resilience Communication Skills Time Management Problem Solving Regulatory Awareness Teamwork