Dean Westergaard
Hillsboro,OR
Summary
Results-driven Senior General Adjuster with proven expertise in complex claims investigation, property valuation, and settlement management. Committed to enhancing client satisfaction through effective communication and mentoring junior adjusters. Over 20 years in the insurance industry with over 5 years claims management experience. Recognized for exceptional problem-solving skills and collaboration with cross-functional teams. Experienced in mentoring teams, driving efficiency, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Over 10 years experience in project management and vendor negotiations.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior General Adjuster
Chubb Insurance
Hillsboro, OR
06.2023 - 04.2026
- Evaluated complex property claims to determine coverage and settlement amounts.
- Collaborated with underwriting teams to ensure accurate policy interpretations and claim processing.
- Conducted thorough investigations, gathering evidence to substantiate claims and mitigate fraud risks.
- Provided clear communication to clients regarding claim status, expectations, and resolutions.
- Mentored junior adjusters on best practices for evaluating claims and managing client relationships.
- Enhanced workflow processes by implementing standardized procedures for claim assessments and documentation.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry regulations, ensuring compliance throughout the claim adjustment process.
- Managed a caseload of complex property damage claims, ensuring prompt resolutions and fair settlements.
- Leveraged interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with contractors, engineers, appraisers, and other experts required during claim assessments.
- Demonstrated adaptability by managing various types of insurance policies including homeowner''s insurance, and commercial property insurance.
- Conducted on-site inspections of damaged properties, assessing repair costs and evaluating coverage eligibility for each claimant.
- Handled catastrophe losses promptly, providing assistance to affected communities during times of crisis or natural disasters.
- Exemplified strong decision-making skills, balancing the interests of policyholders and insurance carriers while adhering to ethical guidelines.
- Prepared summaries of damage, payments, and policy coverage.
- Assisted homeowners by coordinating vendor services, emergency repair, cleaning and contractors.
Executive General Adjuster
Farmers Insurance Company
Hillsboro, OR
05.1999 - 05.2023
- Led strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction across multiple departments.
- Developed and implemented training programs to improve staff performance and adherence to company policies.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline processes, resulting in improved service delivery timelines.
- Established long-term client relationships through consistent delivery of high-quality services.
- Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
- Mentored junior adjusters on best practices for effective claims handling and documentation.
- Continuously improved personal productivity levels through ongoing education initiatives such as workshops or webinars related to adjusting techniques or industry trends.
- Improved customer satisfaction through timely follow-ups and empathetic support during the claims process.
- Enhanced claim resolution process by conducting thorough investigations and documenting accurate findings.
- Ensured consistent quality control standards among team members through regular audits and peer review processes.
- Collaborated with other adjusters, sharing expertise to improve overall team performance and efficiency in handling claims.
- Examined claims forms and other records to determine insurance coverage.
- Verified insurance claims and determined fair amount for settlement.
- Delivered exceptional customer service to policyholders by communicating important information and patiently listening to issues.
- Conducted day-to-day administrative tasks to maintain information files and process paperwork.
- Visited customer locations to evaluate damage and provided cost estimates for remediation.
- Worked with private investigators and attorneys on preparation of evidence, witness statements, and other documentation in preparation for trial.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry regulations, ensuring compliance throughout the claim adjustment process.
- Managed a caseload of complex property damage claims, ensuring prompt resolutions and fair settlements.
- Conducted on-site inspections of damaged properties, assessing repair costs and evaluating coverage eligibility for each claimant.
- Handled catastrophe losses promptly, providing assistance to affected communities during times of crisis or natural disasters.
- Prepared summaries of damage, payments, and policy coverage.
- Assisted homeowners by coordinating vendor services, emergency repair, cleaning and contractors.
Grocery Manager
Fred Meyer, Albertson's, Food Connection
Albany, OR
01.1990 - 04.1999
- Directed daily operations to ensure optimal inventory management and product availability.
- Implemented effective merchandising strategies, enhancing customer engagement and sales performance.
- Trained and mentored staff, fostering a collaborative team environment and improving service quality.
- Developed scheduling systems that optimized labor allocation while maintaining budgetary constraints.
- Established strong vendor relationships, negotiating favorable terms for product procurement and delivery.
- Organized efficient merchandise replenishment strategies to keep shelves stocked and well-organized for customers.
- Delegated tasks and duties to grocery staff and clearly communicated timeframes for completion.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations to identify areas for improvement within the team.
- Optimized ordering processes to minimize stockouts while avoiding excessive inventory levels.
Education
Bachelor of Science - History/Math
Pacific University
Forest Grove, OR01-1998
Skills
- Claims investigation
- Property valuation/Damage assessment
- Multitasking and organization
- Critical thinking/Decision making skills
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Team collaboration
- Policy interpretation
- Problem-solving/Conflict resolution
- Verbal and written communication
- Settlement management
- Claims negotiation
- Time management
Accomplishments
- Created a National Drycleaning Program yielding a $107,000 positive monthly impact.
- Assisted in the update of national letter templates.
- Researched and created national guidance memos.
- Lead multi-million dollar subrogation project.
- Created an advanced property team.
- General Adjuster of the year for 4 years.
- Rookie General Adjuster of the year.
- Supervised a team of 5 catastrophe claims representatives.
Timeline
Senior General Adjuster
Chubb Insurance
06.2023 - 04.2026
Executive General Adjuster
Farmers Insurance Company
05.1999 - 05.2023
Grocery Manager
Fred Meyer, Albertson's, Food Connection
01.1990 - 04.1999
Bachelor of Science - History/Math
Pacific University