Cost Budget Handler

Job Description

Are you currently looking for a Costs Budgeter role Do you want to work in great team with flexibility If so Keoghs have an opportunity to join the Cost team located in our office based at Horwich. The role of Costs Budgeter is to analyse Claimants PrecedentH and prepare Precedent R. To enter into negotiations on the budgets. To negotiate costs on matters. To pursue the settlement of costs as soon as practicably possible.It is important that the job holder can quickly review files & formulate initial costs strategy, provide comprehensive advice to clients, commence early telephone negotiations with other side and liaise, as required, with Insurers throughout the life ofthe file.Key Accountabilities:

• Responsible for management of own caseload using in-house case management system including timely and accurate maintenance of the system along with billing and management information - ensuring completeness of records in order to aid business decision making.
• Responsible for hitting 6.8 hours chargeable per day.
• Delegation of tasks where available and appropriate to other members of the team.
• Drafting schedules / bills of costs for service, preparing Court documentation relating to the detailed assessment process relating to own and opponents recovery of costs.
• Drafting and updating Precedent H.
• Preparing Precedent R on opponents Precedent H and compliance with Costs Case Management Orders and conducting subsequent negotiations arising.
• Reviewing files.
• Identifying strengths and weaknesses and preparing a document to reflect this.
• Preparing cost strategy reports.
• Settling costs.
• Dealing with correspondence and telephone calls.
• Undertaking periodic reviews of files in line with Client requirements.
• Updating reports.
• Meeting agreed performance targets.
• Provide written updates by email or letter to clients detailing case activity to ensure that they receive up to date and accurate information about progress when requested.
• Instruct Counsel or Costs Lawyer to attend Detailed Assessment or alternatively conduct own advocacy.
• To ensure compliance with the current SRA Code of Conduct
• Adhere to the Keoghs Values

Essential Skills and Attributes:

• Experience of dealing with hourly rate files and preparing Points of Dispute and considering replies.
• Good telephone negotiation skills
• Previous experience of handling own caseload.
• Have an understanding of the Detailed Assessment process, Cost Case Laws and Insurance Litigation practice & process.
• Ability to use own initiative.
• Ability to plan and prioritise workloads.
• Excellent listening and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to make decisions.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Ability to act as part of a team.
• Proficient IT skills

What you can expect from us:A learning culture with employee development at the heart of the people development pathwayExcellent flexible benefits including 25 days Annual leave and a Care Cash Plan as standardMonday to Friday - 35 hours per weekBenefits Package:

• Cash Care Plan
• Death In Service - after 1 year
• Pension Contribution
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Tech Scheme
• Season Ticket Loan
• Car Parking Scheme
• Gym Flex
• Access to Online Discount Sites
• Discounted Gourmet Society Membership
• Discounted Tickets for Merlin Attractions nationwide
• Discounts at local retail outlets
• Flexible Working
• 25 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays (opportunity to buy & sell 3 days)

Keoghs is one of the leading providers of claims-related services to insurers, businesses and other suppliers to the insurance sector. We combine proven processes, technology and a low cost infrastructure with deep legal and insurance market knowledge. Thisenables us to create individual solutions for each of our clients that match their requirements in terms of quality, performance and value for money.Our culture is focussed on making Keoghs sustainable and successful for our people and clients, with this our five values are at the heart of everything we do;Keoghs values:We listen, are down to earth and supportiveWe work together towards a common goalWere friendly with a can do attitudeWe care about our clientsWe evolveKeoghs is a Disability Confident employer and we endeavour to recruit from the widest possible pool of suitable candidates.If you require any adjustments or special arrangements to be made to our application process on account of a disability please contact Recruitment.Wed like to take this opportunity to thank you for interest in this position and in our organisationStrictly no agencies please