Maria Priest
Dudley,West Midlands
Summary
Results-driven Commercial Claims Handler with over 10 years' experience in corporate, commercial, and personal lines insurance. Expertise in managing complex claims from notification to settlement, achieving efficient outcomes that align with client and insurer objectives. Strong negotiation skills and effective time management enhance performance in fast-paced environments, contributing to improved processes and exceptional service standards.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
SEQ Level 2 Swimming Teacher
Kore Sandwell Leisure Trust
12.2024 - Current
- Deliver structured, engaging 30-minute lessons aligned to Swim England frameworks (Adult Beginner/Advanced, Ducklings/Discovery Ducklings, Stages 1-7, Stages 8,9,10)
- Monitor swimmer progress regularly, providing tailored feedback to individuals and their appropriate adults.
- Foster a safe, secure environment for swimmers, building strong relationships with all participants.
- Adapt sessions for SEND participants and varied ability levels, including participants with long term health conditions.
- Uphold high standards of safeguarding and compliance, ensuring adherence to employer and industry regulations.
Claims Handler (Part-Time)
Beam Insurance Solutions
09.2023 - 02.2024
- Liaised with clients, insurers, and third parties to ensure timely claims resolution while building and maintaining strong relationships.
- Maintained proactive case management systems to ensure accurate tracking and timely settlements.
- Managed a portfolio of commercial and corporate client claims.
- Produced monthly claims experience reports to inform underwriting and support business decisions across multiple departments.
- Actively participated in pre renewal team and client meetings.
Senior Claims Handler / Claims Handler / Account Handler
Kingfisher Holdings Ltd (Stewart Miller & Peter James Insurance)
04.2011 - 06.2023
- Stepped into a leadership role during COVID-19, ensuring operational continuity and team performance, which progressed to Senior Claims Handler, demonstrating consistent high performance and leadership capability.
- Managed complex commercial and personal claims portfolios, ensuring timely resolution and customer satisfaction.
- Managed complaint handling in line with FCA regulations, achieving fair and compliant outcomes.
- Recognised for balancing commercial outcomes with excellent customer experience.
- Trained and mentored colleagues, improving team skills and service delivery standards.
- Produced detailed claims reports and MI, aiding underwriting decisions and enhancing risk management processes.
- Earlier Roles: Commercial Account Handler (2011–2012): Managed renewals, MTAs, and new business enquiries.
Commercial Motor Sales Advisor
Aon (Footman James Insurance)
01.2008 - 02.2011
- Achieved Top Commercial Sales Performer (2009) for highest new business volume.
- Sold Private Hire, Public Hire, and Motor Trade Road Risk insurance policies, contributing to overall sales growth.
- Handled high-volume inbound and outbound calls (100+ daily) to drive new business and renewals.
Customer Service Advisor
Jessops
01.2001 - 01.2008
- Provided high-quality customer service in fast-paced retail setting, enhancing customer satisfaction.
- Oversaw sales, aftersales support, and daily operations to ensure smooth store functionality.
- Handled cash transactions with accuracy, supporting overall store profitability.
Education
A Levels - Communication Studies, Law, Business Studies
Halesowen College
GCSEs - 9 GCSEs (A–C including Maths, English, Science)
Heathfields Secondary School
Skills
- End-to-end claims management
- Experience across Commercial, Corporate and Personal Lines Insurance sectors
- Negotiation and cost control
- Nurturing and maintaining relationships
- FCA Compliant in complaint handling and TCF
- MI reporting and data analysis
- Team leadership and mentoring
- Diary and workload prioritisation
- Thrives working with a team or on solo projects
- Lesson planning
- Aquatic teaching methods
- Effective communication
- Safeguarding knowledge
- progress tracking
- Swim coaching
- Session organisation
- Adaptability in teaching
Custom
Available on request
Timeline
SEQ Level 2 Swimming Teacher
Kore Sandwell Leisure Trust
12.2024 - Current
Claims Handler (Part-Time)
Beam Insurance Solutions
09.2023 - 02.2024
Senior Claims Handler / Claims Handler / Account Handler
Kingfisher Holdings Ltd (Stewart Miller & Peter James Insurance)
04.2011 - 06.2023
Commercial Motor Sales Advisor
Aon (Footman James Insurance)
01.2008 - 02.2011
Customer Service Advisor
Jessops
01.2001 - 01.2008
A Levels - Communication Studies, Law, Business Studies
Halesowen College
GCSEs - 9 GCSEs (A–C including Maths, English, Science)
Heathfields Secondary School