Lori Gerlinsky
Operations | Project Coordination | Client Relations | Claims
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About
Experienced operations, claims, project coordination and client relations professional with more than 15 years of progressive experience at The Co-operators. Career background includes office administration, insurance sales, field claims throughout Alberta, catastrophe response across Canada and virtual claims operations. Recognized for building trusted relationships, managing competing priorities, maintaining accurate documentation and communicating professionally through challenging situations.
Experienced working with customers, contractors, engineers, restoration companies, municipalities, appraisers, vendors and internal teams to support timely, service-focused outcomes. Known for adapting to new responsibilities, supporting others through mentoring and contributing to collaborative environments where accountability, professionalism and customer service are valued.
Experience
Major Event Claims Representative II - The Co-operators - Alberta, Canada
(2016-04)
Field Catastrophe Team: April 2016 - November 2023 | Virtual Catastrophe Team: November 2023 - Present
- Managed residential, commercial, agricultural and catastrophe property claims from initial contact through resolution.
- Supported catastrophe operations across Canada while adapting to changing operational priorities and customer needs.
- Conducted field inspections throughout Alberta while assigned to the Field Catastrophe Team, documenting damages and meeting with policyholders and service providers.
- Transitioned to the Virtual Catastrophe Team in November 2023, continuing to manage property claims remotely with customers and business partners across Canada.
- Reviewed policy wording and supporting documentation, including estimates, invoices, engineering reports, photographs and repair documentation, to support claim handling.
- Coordinated claim activity with policyholders, contractors, restoration companies, engineers, appraisers, municipalities, vendors and internal business partners.
- Maintained organized electronic claim files, correspondence, payment records and claim notes while ensuring files remained accurate and current.
- Prioritized multiple active claims while balancing deadlines, follow-up requirements and customer expectations.
- Communicated claim processes, coverage information and next steps clearly while supporting customers through stressful situations.
- Mentored catastrophe students and supported onboarding of new hires by sharing knowledge, answering questions and helping them understand processes, systems and documentation standards.
Field Claims Representative - The Co-operators - Alberta, Canada
(2015-08 - 2016-04)
Transitioned from sales and service into field claims, independently managing property claims throughout Alberta.
- Conducted on-site inspections to assess residential, commercial and agricultural property damage.
- Gathered information through customer interviews, site observations, photographs and supporting documentation.
- Prepared reports and claim documentation to support file handling and decision-making.
- Coordinated inspections and repair activity with contractors, restoration companies, engineers and policyholders.
- Managed travel schedules, appointments, inspections and multiple active claim files independently.
- Developed practical knowledge of residential construction, repair methods and property restoration.
Insurance Sales Associate - The Co-operators - Alberta, Canada
(2011-06 - 2015-08)
Built long-term client relationships through knowledgeable insurance advice, responsive service and accurate administration.
- Assisted clients with personal insurance products by identifying coverage options based on individual needs.
- Explained policy coverages, renewals, endorsements and changes in a clear and understandable manner.
- Processed policy changes, payments, renewals, cancellations and related documentation accurately.
- Maintained confidential customer information while following company procedures and documentation standards.
- Responded to client inquiries and resolved concerns professionally and efficiently.
- Collaborated with colleagues to support branch operations and deliver strong customer service.
Insurance Associate - The Co-operators - Alberta, Canada
(2010-06 - 2011-06)
Began career with The Co-operators providing administrative and customer support within a busy insurance office.
- Assisted clients with insurance inquiries and administrative requests.
- Processed policy documentation, payments, endorsements and correspondence.
- Maintained organized client records while handling confidential information.
- Supported daily office operations and collaborated with team members to provide professional service.
Equipment Operator / Labourer / Truck Driver - TBL Construction Ltd.
(2007-01 - 2009-12)
Worked in a safety-focused construction environment that later supported practical understanding of construction practices and property repair processes.
- Operated equipment and commercial vehicles in active construction environments.
- Performed physically demanding outdoor work while following workplace safety procedures.
- Collaborated with crew members to complete projects safely and efficiently.
Education
Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) - Insurance - Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) Program
Certificate - Residential Estimating - Vale (2016-01 - 2016-12)
High School Diploma - Alix-MAC School