Chartered Month Member Stories: Mastering Complex Claims with the CILA Advanced Diploma

In this Chartered Month member interview, we speak to Edgar Lim, Assistant Manager at Malayan Adjustment Company, who has recently completed the CILA Advanced Diploma. Edgar shares how the qualification has strengthened his decision-making, enhanced his ability to mentor colleagues, and supported his progression to handling more complex claims.

Can you briefly describe your current role and how long you’ve worked in the profession?
I am currently an Assistant Manager with Malayan Adjustment Company. I started my career in loss adjusting with Crawford & Company in 2020 and have over five years’ experience handling property and liability claims, working closely with insurers, brokers, and third-party claimants. The role allows me to apply both technical knowledge and practical problem-solving in my day-to-day work.

What motivated you to start your CILA qualifications?
I wanted to deepen my knowledge and really understand the technical side of claims. Seeing how CILA qualifications could help me shape my career path and open doors to future opportunities motivated me to get started. It was also a personal challenge – I wanted to see how far I could push myself.

How has gaining this qualification impacted your confidence at work?
The Advanced Diploma has boosted my confidence at work in unexpected ways. I now make decisions with assurance and explain them clearly to clients and colleagues. It has prepared me to handle complex claims confidently, knowing my judgment is backed by rigorous formal training.

What did achieving the Advanced Diploma represent for you professionally?
Achieving the Advanced Diploma was a significant accomplishment in my career. It represented the culmination of my efforts and commitment to the profession, and equipped me with advanced technical knowledge and practical expertise that I continue to apply in my work.

How has this qualification strengthened your professional judgement and decision-making?
The Advanced Diploma challenged and encouraged me to think critically about claims and assess each situation thoroughly. I’ve become more systematic in how I weigh evidence and make decisions. I now approach complex loss assessments using a structured framework, which makes my recommendations clearer and more defensible. It has also helped me to consider multiple perspectives and potential outcomes, ensuring my decisions are well-reasoned and aligned with industry standards.

How has the Advanced Diploma supported you in mentoring others or taking on leadership responsibilities?
The Advanced Diploma has given me credibility when mentoring junior colleagues. It enables me to guide them more effectively through technical issues and share best practices. It has also supported me in taking on leadership responsibilities within the team, with the reassurance that my knowledge is both robust and recognised.

What would you say to someone considering starting (or continuing) their CILA journey?
I would encourage anyone considering CILA qualifications to take the leap. The journey is challenging, but it is immensely rewarding. It not only builds technical expertise, but also confidence, professional credibility, and opens opportunities for career progression. Consistency and dedication are key, but the outcomes are worth it.

Overall, the Advanced Diploma has been a defining step in my professional development. It has strengthened my technical capability, sharpened my judgement, and given me the confidence to take on more complex claims and greater responsibility, while laying a solid foundation for progression towards chartered status.

Advance your expertise through CILA membership and the Advanced Diploma.