Senior Underwriter - Underwriting Specialist (Excess Casualty)
WFA Digital Insight
As the insurance industry continues to evolve, the demand for skilled underwriters is on the rise. With a 25% increase in job openings over the past year, this role is an exciting opportunity for professionals looking to grow their careers in excess and surplus lines. At James River Group, Inc., a company recognized for its commitment to core values and guiding principles, you'll be part of a team that prioritizes integrity, accountability, and customer service. With the remote job market booming, candidates should be prepared to showcase their expertise in underwriting philosophy and techniques, as well as their ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Job Description
About the Role
The Senior Underwriter role at James River Group, Inc. is a key position that requires a high level of expertise in underwriting complex submissions within the excess and surplus lines segment. As a Senior Underwriter, you will be responsible for analyzing new business opportunities, developing renewal strategies, and providing assistance to other team members. You will work closely with the Underwriting Manager and Division Manager to ensure that all underwriting activities are aligned with the company's core values and guiding principles.The excess and surplus lines segment is a critical part of James River Group, Inc.'s business, and as a Senior Underwriter, you will play a key role in driving growth and profitability. You will have the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients, from small to medium-sized businesses, and develop strong relationships with brokers and other stakeholders.
What You Will Do
- Analyze new business opportunities and develop renewal strategies to drive growth and profitability
- Underwrite complex submissions within the excess and surplus lines segment, applying the company's underwriting guidelines and standards
- Provide assistance to other team members, including the Underwriting Manager and Division Manager
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with brokers and other stakeholders
- Negotiate with brokers on placements, using critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Assist with training, mentoring, and on-boarding of new employees
- Travel to meet with brokers within assigned territory at least three times per year
- Continuously exhibit and uphold the company's core values of integrity, accountability, communication, and teamwork
- Use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify new opportunities and improve existing processes
- Collaborate with other teams to develop and implement new products and services
What We Are Looking For
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience
- Minimum of 5 years of underwriting experience, preferably in excess and surplus lines
- Professional designation is preferred
- Ability to effectively and properly select, evaluate, model, determine coverage, rate, document, quote, and bind accounts
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently or in a team environment to complete assignments within the parameters of instructions given, prescribed processes, and standard accepted underwriting practices
- Solid knowledge of underwriting philosophy and techniques
- Proven problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Strong negotiation skills
- Ability to multi-task
- High level of initiative and motivation
- Strong work ethic with a drive to succeed
- Solid customer service and relationship-building skills
- Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and internet researching
Nice to Have
- 10+ years of underwriting experience in excess and surplus lines
- Specialized coverage and product knowledge
- Experience in marketing and underwriting of division-related products
- Professional certification in underwriting or a related field
- Experience working in a remote or distributed team environment
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunity to work with a wide range of clients and develop strong relationships with brokers and other stakeholders
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
- Professional development and growth opportunities
- Flexible working hours and remote work arrangements
- Access to cutting-edge technology and tools
- Recognition and reward programs for outstanding performance
- Comprehensive health and wellness programs
- Retirement savings plan and matching program
How to Stand Out
- Develop a strong understanding of underwriting philosophy and techniques to stand out in the interview process
- Showcase your ability to work independently and as part of a team, highlighting examples of successful collaborations and independent projects
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with excess and surplus lines, and how you have applied your knowledge to drive growth and profitability
- Highlight your negotiation skills, providing specific examples of successful negotiations with brokers or other stakeholders
- Emphasize your ability to analyze complex data and make informed decisions, showcasing your critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with MS Office and internet researching, highlighting your proficiency in these tools
- Research the company's core values and guiding principles, and be prepared to discuss how you embody these values in your work
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