Professional Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline

Celeste Harris

State Farm
Murfreesboro,TN
26
years of professional experience

Experienced claims specialist with a strong background in coverage analysis, de-escalation, and customer support. Known for resolving complex issues with clear communication and sound judgment.

Work History

Fire Claim Specialist

10 Years 5 Months
State Farm | 05.2016 - Current
  • Investigated claim details, verified coverage, and applied policy language to support accurate coverage decisions.
  • Evaluated damage estimates, repair invoices, and loss reports to determine appropriate settlement outcomes.
  • Documented claim files with detailed notes, correspondence, and supporting evidence for compliance and review.
  • Explained claim status, coverage findings, and next steps with clear, professional communication.

Claims Trainer

5 Years 4 Months
State Farm Insurance Inc | 01.2011 - 05.2016
  • Delivered onboarding sessions for new hires across auto and property claims workflows.
  • Supported claims systems adoption through hands-on process demonstrations and troubleshooting guidance.
  • Designed claims training curricula aligned with policy, procedure, and compliance requirements.

Auto Claim Specialist

9 Years 4 Months
State Farm | 09.2001 - 01.2011
  • Evaluated vehicle damage estimates, repair invoices, and supporting documentation for accurate claim decisions.
  • Investigated auto claims, reviewed policy coverage, and determined appropriate liability and settlement options.
  • Communicated claim status clearly with policyholders, repair shops, and internal partners throughout resolution.
  • Negotiated settlements and payments while ensuring compliance with claim procedures and coverage guidelines.
  • Resolved complex coverage and liability issues through detailed analysis and sound judgment.

Customer Service Representative

4 Years 9 Months
Shop At Home | 03.2001 - 12.2005
  • Resolved customer inquiries regarding orders, returns, and product details with accurate, courteous communication.
  • Assisted callers with shipping concerns, order status, and billing issues using clear, solution-focused support.
  • Processed transactions, exchanges, and account updates while maintaining precise records in customer service systems.
  • Trained new representatives on service procedures, call handling, and documentation standards.
  • Escalated complex complaints to appropriate departments and followed through to resolution.
  • Managed high-stress situations effectively, maintaining professionalism under pressure while resolving disputes or conflicts.
  • Resolved customer complaints with empathy, resulting in increased loyalty and repeat business.

Education

Master of Professional Studies - Strategic Leadership

Middle Tennessee State University | Murfreesboro, TN | 12-2022

Bachelor of Science - Organizational Leadership

Middle Tennessee State University | Murfreesboro, TN | 05-2004

Skills

Data analysis
Problem resolution
Complaint resolution
Complaint handling
Complaint management
Issue resolution
Claim investigation
Claims processing
Customer relations
Dispute resolution
Call center operations
Data entry

Timeline

Fire Claim Specialist

State Farm
05.2016 - CurrentRead More

Claims Trainer

State Farm Insurance Inc
01.2011 - 05.2016Read More

Auto Claim Specialist

State Farm
09.2001 - 01.2011Read More

Customer Service Representative

Shop At Home
03.2001 - 12.2005Read More

Middle Tennessee State University

Master of Professional Studies from Strategic Leadership
Read More

Middle Tennessee State University

Bachelor of Science from Organizational Leadership
Read More
Celeste Harris