Claims Counsel - Liability

About IAG

IAG stands as the foremost general insurance provider across Australia and New Zealand. With a diverse portfolio of brands, the organization is dedicated to realizing its mission of making the world a safer place by supporting everyday Australians and New Zealanders, facilitating their goals, and ensuring insurance is accessible.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Claims Counsel specializing in Liability to manage intricate liability claims, offer reliable legal counsel, and contribute to delivering fair and efficient outcomes for clients, brokers, and partners. This permanent, full-time position involves working with a collaborative team that prioritizes continuous learning, knowledge exchange, and strong interpersonal relationships. The role requires combining legal expertise with strategic insight and practical problem-solving to influence insurance outcomes across New Zealand. Positions are available in Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee management of complex liability and financial lines claims, including evaluation of policy coverage, liability exposure, damages assessment, and resolution planning.
• Provide authoritative legal guidance on claims handling, litigation processes, and policy interpretation to internal teams.
• Collaborate with external legal representatives and service providers to optimize claim resolutions and lead litigation efforts.
• Establish appropriate claim reserves, prepare declinature documents, and make settlement determinations while upholding rigorous reserving and governance standards.
• Support clients in mediations and judicial settlement conferences and initiate recovery proceedings to foster effective and commercially sound results.
• Coach claims professionals by sharing legal insights, refining policy understanding, and guiding settlement strategies.

Qualifications and Experience

• Proven expertise in insurance litigation, liability claims management, professional indemnity, or employment law sectors.
• Holder of a Bachelor of Laws degree and a current practising certificate, or fulfill practising prerequisites.
• Skilled in dissecting complex legal matters and converting them into practical, business-oriented solutions.
• Experienced in cultivating and managing connections with brokers, law firms, clients, and business associates.
• Strong capabilities in negotiation, communication, and conflict resolution in challenging or sensitive contexts.
• Team-oriented with a passion for mentoring and knowledge sharing.
• A proactive approach to staying abreast of legal developments to enhance claims processes and client satisfaction.

Benefits and Perks

• Enhanced KiwiSaver contribution with a 4.5% employer match and standard life insurance coverage.
• Generous leave entitlements including 20 days annual leave plus an additional 5 flexible leave days.
• Flexible working arrangements including remote work options supported by the myFlex program.
• Discounts up to 50% on personal insurance products such as home and motor policies.
• An annual health and wellbeing allowance of $500.
• 14 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Opportunities for professional development through access to LinkedIn Learning, IAG Academy, educational support, and secondments.

Application Details

Applications are accepted until Monday 7 September 2026, 9:59 PM NZST.

Accessibility and Support

If you require accommodations throughout the hiring process, confidential assistance is readily available upon request.

Additional Information

IAG embraces diversity, supports Māori prosperity initiatives through its Māori Strategy, and fosters an inclusive culture celebrating individuality and unique perspectives shaped by life experiences and cultures.