[Hiring] Life Claims & Variable Annuity Sr Spec @Northwestern Mutual

Role Description

The Life Claims & Annuity Sr. Specialist is responsible for assessing and making decisions on variable/portfolio death claims, death under income plan, variable/fixed annuity, and Northwestern Access Fund accounts. This role involves partnering with the contestable team on variable contestable claims. Ensuring compliance with a $2M signature authority limit involves analyzing various documents such as death certificates, claim forms, and legal documentation. Additionally, the specialist conducts routine reviews of claims by contract language and state laws.

What You’ll Do:

• Decision Making and Claims Review:
  • Make fair, accurate, and timely decisions on variable/portfolio death claims, death under Income plans, variable/fixed annuities, and Northwestern Mutual Access Fund accounts.
  • Examine claim information obtained, including beneficiary data, policy values, and policy status.
  • Analyze information received during the claim review process, such as death certificates, claim forms, assignment forms, divorce decrees, and estate and trust documentation.
  • Research and evaluate solutions to arising situations and resolve concerns as needed.
  • Exhibit empathy, professionalism, and tact in all interactions, especially when handling sensitive or contentious claims.
  • Provide exceptional customer service to policyholders, beneficiaries, and financial advisers.
  • Communicate claims decisions to beneficiaries and other parties clearly and sensitively.
  • Manage phone and transactional responsibilities while demonstrating a strong commitment to confidentiality.
  • Maintain organization, accuracy, and timeliness in individual case management systems.
  • Maintain production and claim quality standards to ensure efficiency and accuracy.
• Continuous Improvement and Innovation:
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance claims handling processes.
  • Assist with special projects and initiatives as needed to support the business.
  • Embrace new technology and serve as an advocate by educating beneficiaries and field representatives.
  • Support digital savvy capabilities in self and others.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible work experience.
• A Series 6 FINRA License is required.
• Previous experience in claims, income plan, or annuity preferred.
• High degree of accuracy in handling detailed technical work.
• Self-motivated with proven responsibility for work results and group goals.
• Technically savvy with the ability to toggle between multiple applications and computer monitors simultaneously.
• Strong organizational skills, able to independently prioritize to meet deadlines.
• Exhibits empathy and strong client focus, with excellent customer service skills.
• Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written) to include the proven ability to negotiate.
• Leadership and decision-making skills.
• Ability to analyze complex information and ask thoughtful questions.

Skills You Have:

• Adaptive Communication: Formulates strategies to convey complex information to targeted audiences.
• Analytical Thinking: Organizes and compares various aspects of a situation to identify key issues.
• Annuity Acumen: Demonstrates a thorough understanding of financial principles and risks associated with annuity products.
• Attention to Detail: Focuses on specific details to spot and correct errors.
• Claims Acumen: Applies knowledge of claims philosophy, contracts, and policies for filing claims.
• Customer Centricity: Applies a customer-first mindset to improve solutions and services.
• Empathetic Communication: Empathizes and relates to clients navigating difficult life situations.

Compensation Range

• Pay Range - Start: $65,440.00
• Pay Range - End: $98,160.00
• Geographic Specific Pay Structure:
• Structure 110: $72,000.00 USD - $108,000.00 USD
• Structure 115: $75,280.00 USD - $112,920.00 USD

Job Posting End Date

09/14/2026

The timeline for this job posting may be shortened or extended based on organizational needs.

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