Director, Legal Services

LAW, insurance, CLAIMS… YOU’RE working IN YOUR element .

Posted: 2024-04-03

Closing: When Filled

Location: Edmonton, Alberta

For you, it’s all about maintaining the professional and highly regarded reputation of the Legal Department, both internally and externally. You can see different potential solutions and have confidence to make decisions. You know how to use information and how to get things done. You feel comfortable engaging with stakeholders at all levels. Someone who understands complex concepts but can express themselves clearly and concisely so that everyone gets to the big picture. You’ve got extensive knowledge of the Insurance industry, understand that change is a constant and innovative thinking is essential. We are looking for someone to take responsibility for managing and directing the Claims team in providing legal services for AMA Insurance Company, and the AMA group of companies as a whole. Someone who can provide leadership to and mentor the litigation team with respect to the law, best practices in litigation, strategy and professional conduct.

WHAT MOVES YOU?

• You were the captain of your debate team, weren’t you? Creating persuasive arguments is second nature to you (you’ve also got some pretty mad negotiating skills!).
• You’re a collaborative team player who excels in a fast-paced environment and thrives on change. When something has been done the same way for too long, you hear nails on a chalkboard.
• Your word is law, technically – but you always listen to all sides of an issue before you make a decision.
• You love coming up with innovative legal strategies that lead to exceptional results.
• Your part diplomat, part negotiator and part facilitator — and you know how to successfully navigate political waters.
• You’re both a right- and left-brained thinker. Your innovative side is balanced by your quantitative analytical abilities.
• You have a love for learning and education — not just for others, but also for yourself.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Report to General Counsel & Chief Privacy Officer.
• Develop, advance & manage department litigation philosophy & processes.
• Manage Legal Department defence litigation staff (approximately 6 lawyers, 5 staff – located in Edmonton and Calgary) with respect to AMA Insurance Company litigation.
• Demonstrate knowledge and use of the Rules of Court, Minor Injury Regulation and industry trends to adjust litigation strategy.
• Conduct Questioning, Mediations, JDRs & Trials for up to 30 litigation files while providing regular status reports & legal opinions; closing files within 18 months by settlement or trial.
• Direct internal administrative tasks including assigning claims files, coverage work, policy wording and other project-based activities.
• Ensure the team adheres to department process & work towards effectively reducing loss costs.
• Promote, develop and maintain open communication and strong relationship between internal Claims and Legal Departments at all levels.
• Provide recommendations to Claims Department on emerging legal trends, claim file quality, adjuster training opportunities.
• Track and report various performance indicators for the claims team: file assignments, age and closures; adherence to file timelines, monthly and quarterly billings, file audit conclusions.

WHAT YOU'VE DONE

• You have a degree in Law.
• You’re no newbie — you already have experience in a senior management role.
• You know all the ins and outs of a variety of the field’s concepts, practices, and procedures.
• You’ve got solid trial experience.
• You have practicing membership in the Law Society of Alberta or eligibility for membership.
• You have at least 10 years of insurance defence experience.

WHAT YOU'LL GET

• Competitive salary.
• Flexible benefits.
• Unlimited learning opportunities.
• Outstanding Retirement Savings Program.
• Paid vacation and other paid time off including a Volunteer Day and Me-Day.
• Great AMA discounts.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.