ALLIANZ WORLDWIDE PARTNERS RAISES MINIMUM PAY RATE TO $15 PER HOUR FOR RICHMOND CALL-CENTER ASSOCIATES

Increase for hourly associates will impact 40% of the company’s workforce

Richmond-based consumer specialty insurance provider Allianz Worldwide Partners, has announced that entry-level call-center associates at the company will be paid a minimum wage of  $15 per hour, effective immediately.  The increase will provide an hourly rate that is more than double the state’s minimum wage of $7.25 an hour and is more than 10 percent higher than the average entry-level call-center rate in Richmond.  More than 280 associates will receive raises averaging 5%, including more experienced associates who will receive raises commensurate with their experience.  The company currently has almost 700 associates, of which about 300 work in call-center positions.

The company is also substantially increasing the shift differential for associates who work on weekends.  Associates who commit to working regular weekend shifts will now receive an additional $3 per hour. 

In addition to increases in hourly rates, a new program called Operations Excellence will provide a defined career path as well as the training needed for associates to be successful in a customer-focused environment. The program will include updated new hire training and on-going training that offers instructor-led, video and hands-on sessions.

“Over the past few years, the responsibilities for our call-center associates have evolved, requiring more specialized skills. As we look to the future, we see these roles continuing to evolve,” said Mike Nelson, CEO of Allianz Worldwide Partners USA and head of global travel insurance.  “Our frontline associates will need broader skillsets that allow for the flexibility to support a variety of customers, clients and partners. Moving to $15 per hour as a minimum wage is consistent with the direction of more progressive companies as well as the demands of our business.”

Allianz Worldwide Partners USA 

Allianz Worldwide Partners USA (AGA Service Company) is a leading provider of consumer specialty insurance and assistance.  We provide insurance to 21 million customers annually and are best known for our Allianz Travel Insurance* plans. In addition to travel insurance, Our Allianz Global Assistance brand offers tuition insurance, event ticket protection, registration protection for endurance events and unique travel assistance services such as international medical assistance and concierge services. The company also serves as an outsource provider for in-bound call center services and claims administration for health insurers, property and casualty insurers, and credit card companies. 

To learn more about Allianz Worldwide Partners USA, please visit https://www.allianzworldwidepartners.com/usa or Like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/AllianzTravelInsuranceUS. 

* - Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply to all plans.  Plans are available only to U.S. residents.  Not all plans are available in all jurisdictions.  For a complete description of the coverage and benefit limits offered under your plan, carefully review your plan’s Letter of Confirmation/Declarations and Certificate of Insurance/Policy.  Insurance coverage is underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: Oakbrook Terrace, IL), rated "A-" (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: Richmond, VA), rated "A+" (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on state of residence.  Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are brands of AGA Service Company.  AGA Service Company is the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company.  The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company.  Non-insurance benefits/products are provided and serviced by AGA Service Company.

Media Contact: Daniel Durazo

804.673.7175

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