Bird Construction

Legal Counsel, Claims

Mississauga, ON Full time
Legal Counsel, Claims

Where Greatness Grows

The greatest achievements in history are borne from the greatness within people – where human potential meets vision, and passion fuels evolution. Unlocking this potential is the most important thing we do at Bird.

As a leader in Canadian construction for over 100 years, the impact of our team is etched deeply within the core of our legacy. Beyond Bird, this impact is felt in the fundamental aspects of our everyday lives. From the critical infrastructure we depend on, to the energy and resources that keep us moving - we are powering our communities and shaping Canada’s skylines coast-to-coast. Entrenched in the foundation of a culture built more than a century ago is an enduring quest to reimagine what is possible. Our impact is greater than ever, and we are looking for those who seek to redefine their story.

We are a dynamic team of over 5,000 with a range of professions, backgrounds, and areas of expertise. This breadth of diversity in people and opportunities is one of greatest aspects of building your career with Bird. Every trajectory looks different. At Bird, you hold the pen, and you write your story. As you unlock your potential, you are surrounded by a team that supports you every step of the way.

Be a part of our team, where we pride ourselves on the quality of our work and the way we treat each other and our partners. You will build a career and long-lasting relationships based on respect, collaboration, and a solution-focused mindset. Bird is a place where you will unlock your potential and achieve your goals.

Reporting to the Vice President, Claims, the Legal Counsel, Claims position will internally manage claims and disputes of varying size and scope to satisfactory resolution for the company. You will work closely with the company’s operational leads at the Corporate and District levels, as well as with the Insurance Director, to manage claims across Canada, including construction, bonding/surety, SDI, and professional liability claims. Where necessary, you will also represent the Bird’s interests in adjudications conducted pursuant to the Construction Act. Finally, you will manage external counsel and oversee litigation and arbitration.

Claims will generally be managed in-house except for litigation and arbitration. You will at all times remain mindful of Bird’s reputation in its industries and its overall business objectives, which are relationship based.

This position is a one-year contract based out of our Mississauga office.

What you will be working on

  • Analyze, investigate, negotiate and resolve claims and disputes in a conciliatory manner in the company’s best interests

  • Support business partners in the management of claims and providing advice and opinions and recommendations as to strategy

  • Participate in mediations and settlement negotiations

  • Represent the Bird’s interests in Adjudications conducted pursuant to the Construction Act

  • Retain and monitor external counsel on litigation and arbitration matters

  • Be familiar with the company’s insurance policies and advise on coverage availability for claims and disputes

  • Assist in the management of insurance claims (builder’s risk, wrap-up, subcontractor default insurance, errors & omissions, etc.)

  • Handle coverage issues and disputes directly with insurance stakeholders (coverage counsel, brokers, examiners, etc.)

  • Liaise with operations and outside counsel regarding claims management, strategy, document production and claims resolution

  • Be a resource on legislative updates, case law and trends relating to construction, surety, and professional liability

  • Assist in the development of loss prevention policies and procedures

  • Internal reporting to the Bird Executive and operational stakeholders regarding claims

What We Are Looking For

  • Undergraduate degree in Law 4-8 years of claims and/or litigation experience, with a preference for experience with construction and insurance coverage claims

  • JD/LLB and admitted to the Law Society of Ontario or another provincial bar

  • Highly skilled at litigation, negotiation, and communication

  • Resolution oriented – i.e. not determined to litigate every matter

  • Able to adapt to a fast-paced work environment

  • Excellent organization and time management skills

  • Able to collaborate across working groups

  • Strong analytical, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail

We Put Safety First
A healthy and safe work environment is non-negotiable. We build a culture of operational and psychological safety through engagement, learning and leadership.

We Lead With Honesty
We speak and act with integrity, clarity and care so people can trust our word and our work. Being honest means we can deliver the best outcomes and consistent results.

We Are Stronger Together
Success is a team effort. Our inclusive workplace enables our combined expertise, humility and creativity to unlock our greater potential.

We Are Driven To Do Great Work
We built our name on quality. We have a passion for excellence in our work and relationships that honours our businesses and our industry.

We Create Opportunity
Rooted in a solid foundation, we adapt and grow to face the future. We are committed to elevating each other to chart the best path forward in an evolving world.

Bird celebrates diversity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants and will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability or veteran status.

Please note that this is a fixed term contract position.