James Schumaker

Biography

James Schumaker ("Jim") is a Complex Claims Manager with 27 years of experience handling high-severity casualty and construction defect matters across multiple jurisdictions. At Westfield Insurance, he leads a team of eight Complex Claims Senior Specialists and oversees more than $120 million in reserves, guiding strategic claim resolution, technical excellence, and high-stakes decision-making on the company’s most complex losses.

Jim is recognized for his deep expertise in coverage analysis, litigation management, construction defect evaluation, and cross-functional leadership. He works closely with Underwriting, Actuarial, SIU, Legal, and other business partners to strengthen enterprise alignment, enhance claim outcomes, and advance operational performance. He also plays a leading role in shaping the responsible use of artificial intelligence within Westfield, helping modernize tools, guidance, and best practices.

Prior to his current role, Jim served as a Complex Claims Specialist for Florida and Virginia, managing Westfield’s highest-severity casualty claims and consulting across the organization on technical, legal, and operational issues. He previously led Westfield’s Florida commercial claims strategy as a Casualty Unit Leader and began his career handling construction defect, commercial auto, and general liability claims.

Jim has been a featured speaker at the CLM Construction Conference and the CLM Annual Conference, served as Vice President of the CLM Central Florida Chapter, and has received multiple industry awards, including the Golden Gavel Award and Top Ty Award for litigation management. He holds a Bachelor of Arts & Sciences from Kent State University and advanced designations including Associate in Claims Law, Senior Claim Law Associate, and advanced casualty education through the University of Wisconsin.
 

Education

No information available.

Admissions/Licenses

• Licensed Adjuster: FL