Program Underwriting Consultant
Position Overview
Are you a strategic problem solver who excels at analyzing complex risk and developing insurance solutions that balance client needs with business objectives? We're seeking a seasoned underwriting professional who can leverage both analytical skills and creative thinking to make sound decisions while helping customers overcome real challenges.
As a Program Underwriting Consultant, you'll evaluate diverse, highly complex lines of business to determine risk acceptability, appropriate pricing, coverage terms, and conditions. You'll play a leadership role in developing and integrating both new and existing programs while identifying fresh program opportunities. Your responsibilities will include participation in reinsurance decisions and development of loss control and risk management strategies. You'll collaborate across business units to create and implement program-specific tools such as underwriting guidelines and forms/rate filings. Success in this role requires building and maintaining effective relationships with internal stakeholders, external program managers, and brokers, as well as training and mentoring underwriting team members.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Program Management
* Drive sales and underwriting relationships for Programs products and services
* Contribute data and insights to implement strategic underwriting plans
* Provide business forecasting related to trends and profitability within Program verticals
* Achieve established goals for assigned programs
* Analyze program manager relationships/results and recommend corrective actions
* Identify new business opportunities based on market needs
Technical Underwriting
* Review and evaluate highly complex risks across multiple lines (property, liability, excess, auto, marine, energy, environmental, warranty, workers compensation)
* Make accept/decline decisions on individual risks and programs within assigned territory
* Serve as subject matter expert in analyzing loss exposures and developing premium structures
* Determine appropriate endorsements and exclusions for insurance contracts
* Engage with reinsurers per department guidelines
* Compile data for reinsurer presentations while maintaining strong reinsurance relationships
Product Development & Implementation
* Develop and implement underwriting guidelines, rates, forms, and procedures
* Assist in creating department policies and standardized methodologies
* Lead implementation of new programs across multiple functional areas
* Coordinate with various business partners (claims, actuarial, compliance) to achieve company objectives
* Resolve escalated issues and communicate program initiatives to stakeholders
Relationship Management & Business Development
* Establish and maintain effective relationships with Program Managers to drive profitable growth
* Conduct marketing visits to existing and potential program manager offices
* Engage with Program Managers to promote services and ensure strong partnerships
* Attend industry functions to promote brand capabilities and identify new opportunities
* Serve as resource for direction, training, and guidance for less experienced staff
Compliance & Quality Control
* Conduct audits of risks/programs for compliance with company guidelines and regulations
* Develop and implement specific action plans as needed
* Resolve advanced complex technical issues independently
* Maintain knowledge of insurance regulations and provide consulting on impactful legislation
Qualifications
Education & Experience
* Undergraduate degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or Risk Management
* Graduate degree preferred
* Typically 5+ years experience as a Professional, Financial, and/or Specialty lines underwriter
* Program leadership experience in professional lines preferred
* Knowledge of data management, imaging, and business processes helpful
Knowledge & Skills
* Demonstrated expertise in Professional, Financial, and/or Specialty lines underwriting
* Strong understanding of financial documents, analysis, investments, and market conditions
* Knowledge of insurance law, contract law, and business law preferred
* Understanding of employment principles and practices
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills
* Strong negotiation and influence capabilities
* Ability to manage large programs and develop innovative approaches
* Proven analytical skills to interpret statistical data and evaluate significance
* Project and process management proficiency
* Problem-solving capabilities for complex program challenges
* Decision-making skills aligned with company's financial and ethical goals
* Leadership abilities to train and motivate employees
* Proficiency with industry-specific software applications
Reporting Structure
Reports to Director/AVP. Primarily functions as an individual contributor with potential oversight of up to three direct reports.
Work Environment
* Standard office environment
* Travel required for client meetings, both local and overnight
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package including medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, disability coverage, generous paid time off, holidays, 401(k) with company match, pension plan, and more.