Karen Gilmour Estep
Fayetteville, NC ***** 910-***-**** ********@*****.*** LinkedIn
Risk Coordinator
Strategic and results-oriented Risk Coordinator with a strong track record in identifying potential risks and creating mitigation plans. Proficient in developing risk assessment frameworks to streamline decision-making processes. Proven track record of implementing strategic risk management practices to ensure organizational compliance. Strong ability to communicate complex risk information effectively to stakeholders. Committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in all risk management activities.
CORE PROFICIENCIES
Risk Assessment & Mitigation Compliance Management Regulatory Compliance Incident Reporting Claims Management Workers' Compensation Insurance Renewal Contract Negotiation Documentation & Recordkeeping Data Analytics & Reporting Policy Development Stakeholder Engagement
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Streamlined the City's insurance renewal process, including requisitioning purchase orders, processing payments, and coordinating service agreements.
Implemented improved tracking and reporting mechanisms for Workers’ Compensation and General Liability claims, enhancing financial accuracy and accountability.
Facilitated comprehensive risk management training programs, increasing awareness and reducing incidents related to workers’ compensation and liability claims.
Secured the best-value insurance package for the City by collaborating with the broker during the annual renewal process.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
City of Fayetteville, Fayetteville, NC
Risk Coordinator, 2019 to Present
Oversee insurance policies providing coverage for the City of Fayetteville. Analyze policy terms from multiple carriers to interpret complex language Administer the workers' compensation, light duty, general liability, and property damage programs to ensure compliance with North Carolina Industrial Commission regulations. Process monthly billing for workers’ compensation and general liability claims. Collaborate with employees, citizens, third-party administrators, and insurance brokers to ensure all necessary documentation is obtained and meets NC General Statutes. Manage and update the NCDOT database for essential driver positions in compliance with driving standards. Revise policies and procedures in alignment with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. Provide monthly claim trend reports and department performance summaries to identify and mitigate potential risks. Assist in budget preparation for risk management, including annual insurance allocation and financial reporting. Compile and produce reports such as key performance indicators (KPIs) and contribute to the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for financial oversight.
Optimized litigation support for Workers’ Compensation claims, contributing to favorable resolutions and cost savings.
Improved claims management and risk mitigation by organizing quarterly roundtable meetings for Workers' Compensation and Liability programs.
Streamlined claims tracking efficiency by developing multiple databases, enabling quicker access and more accurate management of Workers' Compensation and Liability claims.
Strengthened cross-functional collaboration by building professional relationships with City departments, attorneys, adjusters, and nurse case managers, improving claims resolution and risk mitigation.
Established a detailed SOP manual for Risk Management, enhancing operational efficiency, reducing errors, and improving compliance.
Office Administrator II, 2016 to 2019
Facilitated coordination between commission members, staff, applicants, and external agencies in alignment with standard procedures. Managed databases for record-keeping and research of case histories to mitigate risks related to documentation errors. Oversaw records retention and management for commissions and Planning & Zoning Division to ensure regulatory compliance. Assisted in ordinance adoption process, including documentation, notification, and legal compliance. Monitored legal requirements for public hearings and cases proceeding to City Council in accordance with North Carolina General Statutes. Maintained and updated the Development Services website to provide accurate and legally compliant public information.
Improved case submission accuracy and efficiency by assisting in the successful implementation of IDT Software, ensuring a seamless transition to electronic processing.
Minimized legal risks and case delays by ensuring strict compliance with state and local regulations, including legal ads, property postings, and public notifications.
Ensured procedural integrity and legal compliance by effectively coordinating multiple commissions, streamlining processes, and minimizing regulatory risks.
Optimized website content management, ensuring accurate and accessible regulatory information for public and internal use.
Increased accuracy and efficiency by implementing and maintaining IDT Software for electronic submission of Planning & Zoning cases.
Revamped the Planning Commission's application process, reducing processing time, improving data accuracy, and ensuring adherence to legal standards.
Coordinated and managed meeting schedules for the Historical Resources and Planning & Zoning Commissions, ensuring seamless operations and compliance with regulatory timelines.
Played a key role in the UDO team, contributing to policy development and regulatory updates to improve compliance and efficiency.
Additional Experience:
Clinic Coordinator/Safety Officer, Fayetteville Hyperbarics, LLC, 3035A Boone Trail Extension, Fayetteville, NC
DCI / CRU Clerk, Fayetteville Police Department, 467 Hay Street, Fayetteville, NC
LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE
Facilitator for the Supervisory Operational Skills Training Course
Facilitator of the rules and regulations pertaining to Workers’ Compensation Claims
Facilitator of the rules and regulations pertaining to Property and Casualty Claims
Chair and Vice Chair of the City of Fayetteville’s Safety Committee
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Microsoft Office, Adobe, Laserfiche, Oracle, JDE