Meet our Leaders
Christopher D. Nichols, CPCU, AIC, AIM
President, CEO
Chris is a graduate of Florida International University with a double-major in Management and International Business. He has devoted his entire career, now over 30 years, and has both Property and Casualty claims handling experience. He is an expert in several areas, including policy coverage and interpretation, as well as large/complex loss handling. He has extensive experience in litigation management and as an Appraiser for disputed property claims.
After graduating in 1994 he began working for a regional firm in Miami, FL as an independent adjuster, starting in commercial auto and CGL claims and eventually, large exposure liability claims. In 1999, he expanded to property claims, and also briefly worked for
a major cruise line adjusting passenger and crew claims. During his tenures in Miami, he served as a Senior Adjuster, Supervisor and General Adjuster.
In 2003, Chris moved "in-house" to a global, reputable insurance company, where he gained a deeper understanding of overall insurance operations, and which allowed his property expertise (both residential and commercial) to mature in one of the most challenging claims environments in the United States. In 2005, Chris relocated his family to Atlanta, GA where he served as a National General Adjuster and National TPA Manager for an independent adjusting company.
In 2009, Chris founded Acclaim Property-Casualty Services, LLC, an independent adjusting company, where he served as President, CEO until he merged with PLS Claims in 2013. In his role as Vice President, he headed up its DCA (Delegated Claims Administrator) operations, including litigated claims, and serves as the Corporate Representative deponent on behalf of a London-based client.
In 2024, Chris became President of PLS Claims.
Chris maintains All-Lines Independent Adjuster Licenses in Georgia as well as in numerous other states. He has earned CPCU, AIC and AIM designations. He has also served as President of the Southern Loss Association, a claims group for property adjusters, attorneys, and other insurance professionals interested in furthering education and networking within the loss adjustment field since 1957, and for four years was a Scout Master in the Boy Scouts of America.
Contact Chris: cnichols@plsclaims.us | (770) 381-8855
Matthew M. Osterhaudt, AIC
Vice President, Director of DCA/TPA Programs
In 2025 Matt joined PLS Claims to oversee its TPA/DCA division. He brings over 35 years of insurance experience, including more than 15 years of claims oversight for the London market. He is well-versed in the complexities of the E&S market, a sector that requires his detailed and “trust but verify” mindset.
Matt began his career in 1988 shortly after graduating from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh. He spent 21 years with Amica Mutual Insurance Company, rising through the ranks to end his tenure in 2009 as Branch Claims Manager in Atlanta, Georgia.
Having decided to make Atlanta his family’s permanent home, Matt joined Bridgewater Group, Inc. in 2009 to oversee its DCA/TPA operations. He quickly expanded his leadership to include Bridgewater’s daily and CAT operations, rising to the position of Vice President. It was during this time that Matt established his expertise in the London market, managing various Lloyd’s-based DCA programs, including Commercial and Residential Property, General Liability, Dealer Open Lot, and Motor Truck Cargo. His impact was transformative: when Matt joined Bridgewater, the firm held a single DCA contract; by the time he departed in 2021, it held 49.
In 2021, Matt was recruited as Executive Vice President of Delegated Authority for a national claim adjusting company. In this role, he was instrumental in preparing the organization for the rigorous and complex Lloyd’s due diligence process. Over nearly three years, he expanded his London network and managed several US-based hybrid TPA programs. Under Matt’s leadership, the company was recognized as International Vendor of the Month for its seamless integration and exceptional customer service.
Contact Matt: mosterhuadt@plsclaims.us | (770) 381-8855
Ann Nichols, ARM
Vice President, Controller
Ann joined PLS Claims in 2013 in a minor support role. Her position at PLS has grown over the years and evolved into that of Controller, overseeing the compliance and regulatory operations of PLS Claims. She is a pivotal member of PLS Claims team, overseeing the day-to-day operations of both the company and the TPA program, as well as all accounting/finance, HR/Payroll, and technology.
Ann graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration/Finance. Prior to working at PLS Claims, she
at Acclaim Property-Casualty Services, LLC. She spent many years volunteering for various non-profit organizations, serving on their boards, while staying home to raise her family.
Contact Ann: anichols@plsclaims.us | (770) 381-8855
