Nicole Gladden
Woodland Hills
Summary
Auto Appraiser with 30+ years of experience in the Automotive Industry with exceptional customer service combined with effective communication and firm command of industry best practices. My experience varies from vehicle damage evaluation, repair cost estimating, and high value insurance claims resolution. Extensive industry knowledge with a strong track record of accurate valuations, cost control, and effective collaboration with insurers, repair facilities, and customers. Talented negotiator, focused insurance team member, accuracy in damage assessment, cost estimation and repair options.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Auto Appraiser
Auto Club of Southern California
Valencia, California
01.2004 - Current
- Performed detailed estimates on vehicle, motorcycle and RV’s
- Prepared comprehensive repair estimates using industry standard guidelines and software
- Determined total loss values and settlement recommendations
- Negotiated repair costs with body shops, dealerships, tow yards and insurers
- Investigation and maintaining accurate documentation and photo reports
- Supported customers through the claims process
- Complete evaluation to determine the ACV and take proactive steps to control storage costs
- Manage 30-35 new inspections and supplements weekly
- Traveled out of state on company behalf for Catastrophic duty for many years
- Participated in mentorship training
- Construct declination letters to adhere to our company policies
- Re-inspect vehicles for DOI compliances
- Appraise a wide range of vehicles, vans, light trucks and passenger cars, classic cars and EV’s
- Inspection areas throughout San Fernando Valley. Footprint: Burbank (east) - into Camarillo
Auto Appraiser / Estimator
Valley Motor Center
Van Nuys, California
01.1996 - 11.2003
- Negotiating with adjusters and appraisers regarding the repair process and procedures
- Making contact with insurance companies when filing the claims on the customer’s behalf
- Evaluated vehicle damage and created repair plans
- Communicated timelines and expectations to clients
- Collaborated with technicians and adjusters
- Ordering parts and paint supplies when necessary
- Filing lien sales for abandoned vehicles
- Ensured the company stayed in compliance with BAR
- Conduct inspections on damaged vehicles and generated accurate estimates for repairs
- Manage heavy workload of 20+ ongoing cases due to strong organizational, time management and collaboration skills
Education
Bachelor’s Degree - Bachelor of Arts
California State University-Northridge
Skills
- Vehicle Damage Assessment
- Insurance Claims & Total Loss Evaluation
- Repair Cost Estimating
- Negotiation & Cost Control
- CCC / Mitchell / Audatex Systems
- Customer Relations (1st and 3rd party demands)
- DOI Compliance & Documentation
- Photo & Report Analysis
- CCC
- Mitchell
- Audatex
- Digital imaging
- Estimating platforms
- MS Office
- Guidewire management
- CCC Portal
Certification
- I-CAR Certified
- Firm command of industry best practices
- Above average turnaround time for file upload
- High quality and timely work turn around
- Excellent team player, customer and repair facilities relations and communication
- Bilingual and fluent in English & Spanish
- Great multitasker and problem solver
PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
- 30+ years in automotive appraisal
- Extensive experience with insurance regulations and repair facilities
- Strong negotiation skills that help reduce claim costs
- Recognized for accuracy, efficiency, and customer service
Timeline
Senior Auto Appraiser
Auto Club of Southern California
01.2004 - Current
Auto Appraiser / Estimator
Valley Motor Center
01.1996 - 11.2003
Bachelor’s Degree - Bachelor of Arts
California State University-Northridge