Overview
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company is a global business engaged in the shipping sector. Present in 155 countries, MSC facilitates international trade between the world’s major economies, and among emerging markets across all continents. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, since 1978, MSC is a privately-owned organization driven by the Aponte family. Today, we continue to focus on caring for customers, employees and the environment.
About the Department
The Claims and UAC 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 and non-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.
Role
The Legal Counsel - Claims Reefer is responsible for the handling of reefer cargo and non-cargo claims as well as major casualties such as grounding, fire on board, vessel seizure, general average for the area of Black Sea, Middle East, Far East and Oceania. The role also includes providing legal support to MSC Agencies and ensuring adherence to company procedures.
Responsibilities
* 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 (e.g., Themis).
* Revise survey formats and ensure documentation compliance.
* Collaborate with internal departments (Logistics, Operations, Vessel Efficiency, Commercial) to resolve recurring issues and improve processes.
Qualifications
* Degree in Law; specialization in maritime law or marine insurance is a plus.
* Proven experience in cargo claims, preferably 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.
Job Details
* Location: Geneva
* Type: Full Time
* Contract: Permanent
* Starting ASAP
* Citizenship/Work Permit: EU citizenship or valid Swiss work permit (B-C)
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