Senior Legal Counsel - Claims Reefer Manager
The Claims andUAC department at MSC plays a critical role in protecting the company’s legal and financial interests across global operations. The team is responsible for managing cargo claims and legal disputes, ensuring compliance with internal procedures and international regulations. It works closely with MSC Agencies, legal advisors, and internal departments such as Operations, Logistics, and Commercial to mitigate risks, recover costs, and streamline dispute resolution. The department also leads loss preventive initiatives, including training and monitoring, to reduce exposure and enhance operational efficiency.
THE ROLE
The Senior Legal Counsel - Claims Reefer Manager is responsible for leading the handling of reefer cargo claims and related incidents, with a strong focus on loss prevention, legal risk mitigation, and recovery from liable third parties. The role also includes providing legal support to MSC Agencies and ensuring adherence to company procedures.
AsSenior Legal Counsel - Claims Reefer Manager you will :
* Lead investigations into reefer cargo incidents to assess liability and damage.
* Negotiate claim settlements with customers, terminals, vessel owners, and other stakeholders.
* Manage cargo-related incidents to mitigate losses and reduce costs.
* Analyse incidents and implement loss prevention strategies.
* Provide legal assistance to MSC Agencies, including coordination with external lawyers and experts.
* Liaise with insurers and initiate recovery actions against liable third parties.
* Maintain and update claims databases and reporting tools (, Themis).
* Revise survey formats and ensure documentation compliance.
* Collaborate with internal departments (Logistics, Operations, Vessel Efficiency, Commercial) to resolve recurring issues and improve processes.
* Keep Head of Claims and UAC updated at all times on incidents and issues.
The role includes supervising and developing a team of claims professionals.
* Leadership & Delegation : Ability to assign responsibilities effectively, monitor progress, and ensure accountability.
* Coaching & Development : Mentor team members, identify training needs, and foster professional growth.
* Performance Oversight : Conduct regular evaluations, provide feedback, and align team objectives with departmental goals.
* Cross-Functional Collaboration : Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external legal partners to ensure cohesive case handling.
* Communication & Influence : Clearly articulate legal strategies and influence decision-making across departments.
* Process Improvement : Encourage innovation and continuous improvement in claims handling.
YOUR BACKGROUND
* Degree in Law; specialization in maritime law or marine insurance is a plus.
* Proven experience in cargo claims, preferably in reefer cargo.
* Strong knowledge of the shipping industry and legal frameworks.
* Excellent command of English (spoken and written); French is an asset.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
* High sense of responsibility, autonomy, and motivation.
* Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multicultural team.
Our company provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.
#J-18808-Ljbffr