Claims Handler

Department - Legal

Location: Shared Service Centre, India

Job purpose

SeaLead is a global shipping line connecting emerging markets with major economies through container shipping and liner services. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Singapore. SeaLead initially started with feeder services and then expanded into long-haul liner services over time. Operating in 51 locations and servicing 77 ports worldwide, SeaLead provides a comprehensive range of shipping solutions, including container and feeder services, inland transport, and customised solutions.

The Claims Handler is responsible to support the company’s maritime operations by supporting the maritime legal team headquartered in Singapore, by managing pre-claims and claims for dry and reefer cargoes within the Shared Services Centre, ensuring timely investigation, documentation, and resolution. The role involves handling liability claims from initiation to closure, coordinating with local agencies and surveyors for cargo damage incidents, and supporting legal and operational teams. It also includes guiding stakeholders, negotiating settlements, ensuring compliance with maritime conventions and contractual terms, and delivering customer-focused outcomes.

Main tasks and responsibilities

Pre-Claims & Claims Handling

• Monitor daily operational incidents and assess potential claims.
• Handle liability claims from start to finish, including verification, documentation, and analysis of contract terms.
• Process new claims and notifications, ensuring accurate data collection and documentation.
• Investigate and analyse claims, build defenses, third-party for recovery, and negotiate with claimants.
• Handle claims for dry and reefer cargoes, ensuring fair and timely settlement.
• Guide stakeholders on claim procedures and monitor claim progress.
• Close cases in line with applicable Bill of Lading terms, International Maritime Conventions, and Hague/Hague-Visby Rules.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Liaise with local agencies, terminal and vessel operators, and surveyors for joint surveys and claim investigations.
• Build and maintain relationships with insurers, P&I correspondents, and other legal/claims professionals.
• Negotiate settlements and recover damages from liable parties within defined turnaround times (TAT).

Customer Service & Compliance

• Ensure customers are treated fairly, in a timely manner and receive excellent service in line with industry and company standards.
• Settle claims with a customer-centric approach, balancing legal and commercial considerations.
• Participate in legal discussions related to claim settlements and recovery efforts.
• Ensure all claims are handled in compliance with internal policies and maritime regulations.

Reporting & Quality Control

• Maintain detailed claim files and trackers.
• Audit team members’ claim files regularly to ensure consistency and quality.
• Provide insights on claim trends and support process improvements.

Education requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Law, Business, Maritime Studies, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in maritime claims handling, preferably in dry and reefer cargo operations.
• Familiarity with P&I Club procedures, cargo claims, and international maritime conventions.
• Strong understanding and knowledge of maritime law and conventions, marine insurance, claims handling, and dry shipping contracts.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of the container liner industry is preferred
• Resilient with a sense of urgency and the ability to work well under demanding timelines
• Proficiency in business applications and IT tools such as SAP, Excel, Microsoft, etc.

Language requirements

English

Competencies and skills

• Strong analytical and negotiation skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple claims efficiently with good data record keeping.
• Proficiency in MS Office and claims management systems.