Our client is seeking to hire a Claims Handler for their Ashford office. You will be the first and ongoing point of contact for smaller customer claims, and will provide customer liaison for claims being managed at head office/regional office. Monday to Friday, 9-5pm (35hrs pw), with an hour's lunch break. We are looking for someone who wants a career in insurance, as this role comes with extensive and ongoing training. c£20-22,000 per annum, dependent on experience, plus a host of benefits to include:

* 26 days holiday plus bank holidays
* The option to buy or sell 5 days after probation
* Birthday day off
* Health Shield cash-back plan
* Death in service
* Free parking
* Friday fruit delivery
* Annual company trips for staff

Duties include:

* Obtain information from customers to intimate claims and assess appropriate claims route
* Manage claims from intimation to settlement including confirming cover, appointing suppliers and loss adjustors as required, keeping the customer informed and reaching satisfactory settlement
* Where outside delegated authority, intimate the claim and provide sufficient information for the Claims Team to proceed, appoint suppliers and loss adjustors as required and ensure the customer is kept informed and that the claim proceeds efficiently
* Record and manage claims and customer contact
* To develop and sustain effective working relationships with all stakeholders
* To comply with all applicable sections of the General Insurance Compliance Manual, Claims Guide and local agency procedures
* Obtain and maintain the relevant competencies and licences as required by the company and operate within your scope of authority at all times

Insurance experience isn't necessary (but is desirable), but the ideal candidate will have:

* Proven track record in delivering excellent customer service in a claims/handling or complaints type environment (be able to deal with upset customers)
* Ability to build relationships through effective written and verbal communication skills
* Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills
* Good IT skills especially Microsoft Office and to use company systems
* Able to manage own workload and able to work effectively under pressure
* 6 GCSEs A-C (or equivalent) including English, Maths & Science
* Problem solver, use own initiative, demonstrate honesty, integrity, care, skill and diligence

Full training provided (which may include additional travel and staying away from home in order to attend training courses). There is potential to complete CII qualifications and may be occasional weekend work to support agency events.

The role is subject to Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks and CCJ checks.

New Appointments Group, Expertly Matching Employers and Jobseekers since 1975. Committed to diversity, equality and opportunity for all. s.mcdermott@newappointmentsgroup.co.uk