Our Story: Platform, Process, People
Founded in 2015, TelaClaims set out to redefine claims management by combining innovative technology, proven processes, and a people-first approach.
Leveraging decades of insurance experience, our founder envisioned a new way forward: a model where independence, precision, and integrity guide every claim, and where technology isn’t a replacement for people but a tool that empowers them.
We recognize that carriers strive to serve policyholders at their most vulnerable moments. TelaClaims was built to help them do exactly that, with greater speed, clarity, and confidence.
Unlike traditional adjusting firms, TelaClaims operates as a tech-enabled partner, powered by Merge, our proprietary claims management platform. Merge allows us to streamline complex workflows, enhance transparency, and deliver insights that transform how carriers manage even the most challenging claims.
Guided by our core principles of Platform, Process, and People, TelaClaims has reshaped the claims experience for both carriers and policyholders. Our mission is to deliver precision, efficiency, and compassion at every stage of the claims lifecycle, helping people rebuild with confidence while exceeding carrier expectations.
Technology is only as good as the problem it solves. That’s why we built Merge from the ground up.
Merge centralizes communication, streamlines workflows, and provides real-time visibility into every claim. It empowers our adjusters and ensures carriers receive swift, transparent, and precise information, without the delays of legacy systems.
Because Merge is fully integrated into TelaClaims’ operations, we’re able to handle any claim, no matter the size, type, or complexity while exceeding carrier expectations.
Process: Innovation That Delivers Results
TelaClaims operates with discipline and innovation at every stage of the claims lifecycle:
Thorough First Contact: We engage policyholders immediately after FNOL, gathering essential documentation and visuals to ensure no detail is missed.
Swift Field Deployment: Our nationwide network of licensed professionals can be on-site quickly, equipped with mobile tools to capture real-time data, even offline.
Accurate Estimates: Backed by field intelligence and rigorous data analysis, we produce estimates carriers can rely on.
This approach isn’t theoretical. During Hurricane Milton, our process achieved a 0.00% error rate in estimate accuracy and coverage decisions, a reflection of our commitment to precision and excellence.
People: The Heart of TelaClaims
Technology and process are powerful but it’s our people who bring it all to life.
TelaClaims’ adjusters, inspectors, and estimating teams combine technical expertise with empathy and professionalism. We understand that every claim represents a disruption in someone’s life or business, and we take pride in helping policyholders navigate those moments with clarity and compassion.
Whether resolving complex coverage issues or simply offering reassurance, our team goes beyond transactions, we build trust.
Experience the TelaClaims Difference
At TelaClaims, Platform, Process, and People work together to deliver claims handling that’s faster, more transparent, and more accurate than ever before.
We partner with carriers who share our belief that truth matters, and who want a trusted team ready for any challenge.
Meet the Team: Led by David Milton, our executive team brings decades of industry experience and a shared commitment to excellence. Each member plays a crucial role in delivering the results and service that define TelaClaims.
David Milton
Founder:
David has 25+ years driving results across the insurance landscape. With a passion for innovation and a deep understanding of the industry, David is leading Telaclaims towards a brighter future.
David began his education in 1989 at Cambell University, where he studied Accounting and Finance and then continued his education studying Administration and Management at North Carolina State University. After finishing his education, he began his insurance career at Property Claims Services where he served as the Executive Vice President for over a decade.
David’s career has spanned various roles to include managing partner of Milton Risk Consultants and various leadership roles at Argus Insurance Group, including President, COO, Executive Director, and Shareholder, allowing him to develop a comprehensive view of the insurance ecosystem. From claims processing and product development to leadership positions, he’s consistently delivered impactful solutions that enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction. He founded TelaClaims in 2015 after witnessing the frustration and inefficiency of traditional claims handling firsthand. That's why he started Telaclaims, with a mission to make the claims process easier, faster, and more transparent for everyone involved.
As CEO of Telaclaims, he’s focused on empowering our team to excel and revolutionizing the claims experience. TelaClaims is dedicated to providing exceptional service, leveraging technology to streamline processes, and building strong relationships with our clients.
Beyond the professional arena, he enjoys spending time with his wife, three children, and three furry companions. His family is his anchor, and they inspire him to strive for excellence in all aspects of life. David is also actively involved in various insurance organizations, contributing his expertise, and collaborating with industry leaders to shape the future of the sector.
Zachary Parris
Claims Manager:
Zachary is an established insurance leader with extensive expertise in claims and risk management. Throughout his career, he has led diverse teams, including a dynamic group of over 45 professionals, driving strategic improvements and maintaining rigorous compliance across all levels of operations. His proficiency in navigating the complexities of claims management and developing strategic process improvements has positioned him as a key player in the industry.
As a certified professional holding AIC and AINS designations and currently pursuing a CPCU certification, Zach is deeply committed to lifelong learning and professional development. His approach to claims management is firmly rooted in the belief that continuous education and embracing innovative technologies are crucial for advancing the insurance sector.
Zach is passionate about merging traditional insurance practices with cutting-edge InsurTech solutions, constantly seeking ways to enhance service delivery and operational efficiencies. At Telaclaims, he leverages his extensive experience and insights to foster growth and innovation within the industry, empowering the next generation of insurance professionals to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Zach is an active participant in the insurance community, engaging in discussions and contributing to thought leadership on the future of insurance. He looks forward to connecting with fellow professionals who share his enthusiasm for transforming the insurance industry. Let’s drive the future of insurance together!
Rudy Gonzalez
Chief Technology Officer:
As the Chief Technology Officer of TelaClaims, Rudy Gonzalez brings over three decades of experience in technology development, enterprise solutions, and strategic management. With a career spanning industries from luxury goods to government consulting and insurance technology, Rudy is a visionary leader dedicated to innovation and operational efficiency.
At just 19 years old, Rudy began his career as the youngest developer at Carnival Cruise Lines, working on mainframe systems and quickly advancing to their core reservation platform. His expertise led him to Cartier International, where he spent over seven years as the Zone Director of Technology, overseeing the U.S., Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.
Throughout his career, Rudy has worked with global corporations, implementing large-scale technology solutions, including ERP and procurement management systems for Fortune 500 companies. Notably, he led a $20M statewide implementation of PeopleSoft for the Virginia Department of Information Technology and played a key role in strategic management consulting for multinational firms like AT&T Latin America and Hewlett-Packard.
As CTO of TelaClaims, Rudy leads the technology team in the development of Merge, the firm’s proprietary claims management system. His expertise in enterprise architecture and software development has been instrumental in ensuring that Merge seamlessly integrates field inspections, documentation, and carrier-specific requirements into a streamlined, highly efficient platform. Because of Merge, TelaClaims has established itself as an industry leader in insurance adjusting, leveraging cutting-edge technology to optimize claims handling and accuracy.
Howard Goldman
Vice President:
Howard is Vice President of the Appraisal Division at TelaClaims and a licensed Executive General Adjuster in the states of Florida, and Michigan, He has 34 years of experience in the property restoration industry, 19 years as an insurance restoration/ reconstruction contractor, 7 years of which was spent as owner of a multi-housing renovation company. Over the past 15 years Mr. Goldman has adjusted numerous residential and commercial large loss and complex property damage claims and has been retained by many Insurance Carriers as their representative at Mediations, as their Appraiser, and as a Loss Consultant to resolve disputed property damage claims.
Following Hurricane Katrina, Mr. Goldman oversaw reconstruction of Tulane University in New Orleans which was accomplished in 5 months and remained in New Orleans for two years overseeing completion of multiple commercial renovation projects as a member of the Senior Management Team for BELFOR Property Restoration.
Howard has been a Florida Wind Certified Appraiser and Umpire since 2010 and has established an excellent track record for resolving disputed claims and arriving at excellent settlements. He recently also received his Appraiser Certification with P.L.A.N., The Property Loss Appraisal Network.
Beginning in 2014, and each year thereafter, Mr. Goldman has completed adjuster certification training offered by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and is a NFIP certified adjuster for Residential, Manufactured (Mobile) Home/Travel Trailer, Small Commercial, Large Commercial, and Condominium (RCBAP) Mr. Goldman holds an active residential builder/contractor’s license in the State of Michigan which he has had since 1990. He is also an active member of Florida WIND.
Fabrisio Ponte Vela
Data Analyst:
As a Data Analyst at TelaClaims, Fabrisio Ponte Vela plays a critical role in leveraging data to enhance claims processing efficiency and optimize decision-making. With a Master of Science in Finance from Florida International University (Magna Cum Laude) and as a current Master’s candidate in Data Science at the University of Miami, he brings a strong foundation in financial modeling, statistical analysis, and artificial intelligence to the team.
Fabrisio works closely with TelaClaims’ proprietary claims management system, Merge, collaborating with software engineers to refine its data capabilities. His expertise in data visualization, predictive analytics, and performance metrics allows him to provide valuable insights that support adjusters in improving efficiency and accuracy. By analyzing key performance indicators, claims trends, and operational data, he helps ensure that carrier clients receive industry-leading results.
With a background spanning financial analysis, business intelligence, and corporate strategy, Fabrisio is instrumental in driving data-driven decision-making at TelaClaims. His analytical expertise and commitment to innovation enhance the firm’s ability to deliver streamlined, technology-backed solutions in the adjusting industry.