Sylvia A. McDonald
Springfield,IL
Summary
Experienced Rate Implementation Manager with a proven track record in policy analysis and execution. Adept at collaborative project management, leading teams to successfully implement rate changes. Recognized for enhancing operational efficiency and exceeding service objectives while fostering strong cross-functional relationships.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Rate Implementation Manager
Horace Mann Insurance
11.2024 - Current
- Executed accurate analysis and implementation of DOI rate filings for multiple P&C lines.
- Coordinated with various business areas to align rate change implementation with DOI requirements.
- Supervised a team of rating analysts in developing, testing, and implementing updated rating factors.
- Implemented new rating algorithms and routines to ensure compliance with DOI filings.
- Investigated complex rate verification inquiries from diverse business areas to provide resolution.
User Acceptance Tester
Horace Mann Insurance
12.2022 - 11.2024
- Executed test plans to confirm rate accuracy across various P&C lines of business.
- Conducted premium verification, ensuring compliance with established guidelines.
- Investigated rating discrepancies and delivered comprehensive feedback to business partners.
- Researched inquiries from multiple teams regarding rate changes and system functionalities.
Individual Risk Assessor - PolicyCenter SME
Horace Mann Insurance
01.2018 - 12.2022
- Developed and implemented functional requirement testing plans for multiple lines of business.
- Collaborated with diverse workstreams to optimize cross-functional system performance.
- Recorded, researched, and retested PolicyCenter defects during UAT and production phases.
- Tracked and responded to agent inquiries while troubleshooting reported errors.
Individual Risk Assessor - Frontline Underwriter
Horace Mann Insurance
07.2015 - 01.2018
- Reviewed new property applications for adherence to underwriting guidelines
- Consistently met and exceeded service level objectives for issuing accurate applications
- Conducted agent training to introduce new quality control standards
- Regularly communicated with agents and field leadership to ensure the quality of underwritten risk
Claim Automation and Procedures Specialist
State Farm Insurance
09.2013 - 07.2015
- Provided technical and functional support to the claim operation and claim employees
- Collaborated with internal and external business partners to improve and maintain consistency in claim practices
- Trained new associates on the use of automated tools, workflows, and procedures
- Managed projects to efficiently respond to the needs of internal and external customers
Fire Claim Representative
State Farm Insurance
12.2008 - 09.2013
- Actively communicated with customers, contractors, and other business partners to investigate and resolve both first- and third-party claims
- Requested and collected relevant documentation to complete thorough claim investigations and determine accurate claim payouts
- Assisted with the training and orientation of new claim representatives
- Collaborated with leadership and peers on multiple committees to improve claim handling efficiencies and consistency
Education
Bachelor of Arts - English Literature
Illinois College
Jacksonville, ILMaster of Arts - English Composition
University of Missouri
St. Louis, MOSkills
- Analyzing and interpreting multiple types of policy documentation
- Multi-tasking and balancing multiple responsibilities
- Collaborating on complex projects and assignments
- Deep understanding of underwriting policies and procedures
Certification
Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter
Timeline
Rate Implementation Manager
Horace Mann Insurance
11.2024 - Current
User Acceptance Tester
Horace Mann Insurance
12.2022 - 11.2024
Individual Risk Assessor - PolicyCenter SME
Horace Mann Insurance
01.2018 - 12.2022
Individual Risk Assessor - Frontline Underwriter
Horace Mann Insurance
07.2015 - 01.2018
Claim Automation and Procedures Specialist
State Farm Insurance
09.2013 - 07.2015
Fire Claim Representative
State Farm Insurance
12.2008 - 09.2013
Bachelor of Arts - English Literature
Illinois College
Master of Arts - English Composition
University of Missouri
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