Kal Freeman
Valley,AL
Summary
Automotive Property Damage Specialist with over 26 years of estimating experience in the collision repair industry. Proven track record in analytical thinking and documentation management, enhancing operational efficiency and accuracy. Expert in CCC estimating software, fostering strong relationships with clients and vendors to drive successful outcomes. Recognized for reliability and attention to detail in high-pressure environments.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Property Damage Specialist
Safeway Insurance Company of Alabama
05.2016 - Current
- Inspecting properties damaged due to accidents, natural disasters, or other incidents.
- Calculating costs of repairs and evaluating property value for various purposes, including sales, financing, and taxation.
- Preparing detailed reports and documentation of appraisal data.
- Mentored junior appraisers, providing training on appraisal methodologies and best practices.
- Documented condition and special features to provide accurate estimations.
- Communicating with property owners, repair facilities and/or their representatives regarding valuations and other concerns.
- Conducting field inspections and analyzing data to investigate and evaluate property damage claims.
- Reviewing appraiser estimates and supplements for accuracy and documentation of company guidelines.
Body Shop Manager
Tiger Paint & Body
06.2010 - 04.2016
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards.
- Managed scheduling and workflow to optimize team efficiency and productivity.
- Trained and mentored staff on repair techniques and customer service protocols.
- Implemented inventory control systems to streamline parts management and reduce waste.
- Collaborated with insurance companies for seamless claims processing and resolution.
- Evaluated performance metrics to identify areas for operational improvement and cost savings.
- Supervised and managed shop operations and tasks.
- Processed insurance paperwork and prepared estimates to negotiate insurance settlements.
- Examined damaged vehicles to determine degree of structural and mechanical damage.
- Established relationships with automotive industry vendors for subcontracting glass repair, upholstery repair and vinyl decal installation.
Body Shop Manager
Mike Ragland Collision Center
03.2009 - 06.2010
- Developed estimates by costing parts, supplies and labor and calculating customers' payments.
- Built and maintained good relations with customers, encouraging loyalty and obtaining recommendations.
- Developed strong relations and partnerships with parts/paint vendors and insurance companies to facilitate productive business dealings.
- Prepared work orders by describing repair and replacement services required, obtaining approval signatures, and entering orders into work management system.
- Spearheaded process improvements that led to reduced cycle times and improved overall efficiency within the body shop operations.
- Optimized inventory management, reducing waste and ensuring availability of necessary parts for timely repairs.
- Established strong relationships with insurance providers, resulting in increased referrals and repeat business.
Parts Manager
King Chevrolet
01.2005 - 02.2009
- Managed inventory control processes to optimize parts availability and reduce lead times.
- Developed training programs for staff on parts management software and best practices.
- Oversaw procurement of parts, ensuring compliance with budgetary constraints and quality standards.
- Implemented strategies to enhance supplier relationships, improving order fulfillment reliability.
- Conducted regular audits of inventory systems to ensure accuracy and minimize discrepancies.
- Managed warranty claims efficiently by working closely with manufacturers to resolve issues promptly while minimizing financial losses to the company.
- Collaborated with service managers to ensure timely completion of repairs and maintenance, increasing overall customer satisfaction.
Assistant Body Shop Manager
Glynn Smith Chevrolet Collision Center
03.1999 - 01.2005
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring efficient workflow and high-quality service delivery.
- Trained and mentored team members on best practices and safety protocols.
- Implemented process improvements that enhanced productivity and reduced turnaround times.
- Coordinated with insurance companies to streamline claims processing for customers.
- Managed inventory levels, optimizing stock availability for repair parts and supplies.
- Facilitated communication between departments to ensure alignment on project goals and timelines.
Education
High School Diploma -
Old Path Christian Academy
Cusseta, AL05-1997
Skills
- Customer relations
- Analytical thinking
- Documentation management
- Expert in CCC estimating software
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
- Organizational skills
- Relationship building
- Reliability
Certification
I-CAR Platinum Certification
Timeline
Property Damage Specialist
Safeway Insurance Company of Alabama
05.2016 - Current
Body Shop Manager
Tiger Paint & Body
06.2010 - 04.2016
Body Shop Manager
Mike Ragland Collision Center
03.2009 - 06.2010
Parts Manager
King Chevrolet
01.2005 - 02.2009
Assistant Body Shop Manager
Glynn Smith Chevrolet Collision Center
03.1999 - 01.2005
High School Diploma -
Old Path Christian Academy