We are seeking a detail-oriented and organized Risk Management Specialist to oversee and coordinate all aspects of our employee injury and guest incident claims process. This role involves identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks within the restaurant operations to ensure the safety and security of guests, employees, and assets. The Risk Management Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring injured employees receive timely and appropriate care, minimizes costs, and maintains compliance with state regulations. The position requires close collaboration with claimants, legal professionals, and other stakeholders to ensure fair and timely claim resolution. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment, and the capability to work collaboratively across departments.

Key Responsibilities:

Claims Management – Workers’ Compensation:

• Handle and process all workers' compensation claims from initial report to resolution

• Investigate workplace injuries and provide guidance and support to management on corrective actions necessary to prevent future occurrences

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all claims and related documentation

• Communicate effectively with employees, supervisors, healthcare providers, insurance carriers, and legal representatives to facilitate claim resolution

• Assist with return-to-work programs and light-duty assignments

Claims Management – General Liability:

• Conduct thorough investigations of general liability claims, including gathering relevant documentation, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing incident reports

• Resolve or minimize exposure on guest incidents by conducting wellness calls to every guest reporting an incident on our premises

• Manage the claims process, including filing claims, coordinating with adjusters, and providing necessary documentation

• Maintain clear and professional communication with all parties involved in the claim process

• Prioritize claims based on urgency and complexity

Employee Support:

• Provide guidance and support to employees throughout the workers' compensation claim process

• Track and follow up on medical appointments, follow-up care, and return-to-work programs

• Ensure employees understand their rights and responsibilities under workers' compensation laws

Compliance and Reporting:

• Track claim progress and deadlines, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local workers' compensation laws and regulations

• Prepare and submit required reports and documentation to regulatory agencies and insurance carriers

• Analyze incident reports, claims, and other data to identify trends or areas of concern and recommend preventive measures to reduce workplace injuries and guest incidents

• Stay informed of changes in workers’ compensation laws and regulations or general liability policies and procedures

Training and Education:

• Develop and conduct training programs for employees on workplace safety, food safety, and emergency response procedures

• Educate managers and supervisors on their roles in the workers' compensation and general liability processes

• Participate in safety committee meetings and contribute to the development of safety policies and procedures

Risk Management:

• Collaborate with the Director of Risk Management to develop and implement risk management strategies

• Assist in special projects related to claims management, risk assessments, or process improvements as directed by the Director of Risk Management or senior leadership

• Conduct safety audits and inspections to identify and mitigate potential hazards

• Oversee day-to-day administrative tasks, including filing, data entry, and document management, ensuring that all information is accurate and up to date

• Serve as a point of contact for claimants, insureds, and other stakeholders, providing information and answering basic inquiries

• Assist in tracking the status of claims and follow up on outstanding items with internal and external parties

Qualifications:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in risk management, safety, or a related role, preferably within the restaurant, hospitality industry, or other multi-unit decentralized environment.

• Strong knowledge of California workers' compensation laws and regulations

• Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills

• Strong written, verbal communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills

• Proficient in computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point)

• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and work independently

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy

• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion

• Compassionate and empathetic, demonstrating a strong ability to make decisive, prudent, and judicious decisions.

• Ethical Judgment: Strong ethical judgment and integrity to ensure that risk management practices are conducted responsibly.

Travel:

Must be able to travel

Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, or related field preferred

Certifications: Certified Risk Management professional (CRMP) preferred

Work Environment:

• Office-based with occasional travel to restaurant locations for inspections, investigations, training sessions, or meetings as needed

• Standard working hours with some flexibility required for handling urgent claims, special projects, or emergency situations

• Considerable sitting/ standing/ walking and often lifting

• Manual dexterity and mobility