Senior Underwriting Specialist - Schaumburg, IL

In this position, you will underwrite new and renewal business which includes solicitation, selection and pricing of highly complex multi-line risks (workers compensation, commercial auto, general liability). You will actively and creatively pursue new commercial insurance solutions including guaranteed cost, large deductible and retro account opportunities throughout the territory through your network of national and regional brokers and agents. Maintain and develop prospects in order to have a strong base of future opportunities to build your large account book. Contribute to the development of broker and agency management strategies and lead the development and execution of relationship management plans.

Responsibilities:

• Analyze, select and profitably price coverage for commercial risks and determine terms and conditions of coverage on new and renewal business.
• Apply and conform to underwriting rules and guidelines, rating manuals, insurance laws/ regulations.
• Utilize a consultative selling approach to generate new business consistent with underwriting strategy and in coordination with service team members to include accurately assessing the needs of the broker and the client and formulating solutions that effectively address those needs.
• Analyze underwriting & marketing activities and corresponding results; prepare reports to management.
• Mentor and provide technical training and guidance to coworkers.
• Determine, coordinate and direct account management activities with various departments.
• Negotiate and deliver proposals to producers and buyers.
• Develop and maintain client relationships and coordinate service team efforts.
• Identify opportunities for organizational improvement and recommend solutions.
• Demonstrate commitment to Company's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, and apply knowledge of compliance policies and procedures, standards and laws applicable to job responsibilities in the performance of work.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required.
• 7 years of casualty underwriting with an insurance carrier required
• Advanced understanding and technical knowledge of underwriting mechanics and fundamentals
• Advanced knowledge of casualty coverage and loss sensitive deal structures (retrospective rating, large deductible, captive, and self-insurance). Additional knowledge in financial analysis, account management and collateral management is desired.
• Advanced knowledge of local and regional market conditions as well as industry trends.

• Prior experience in or knowledge of Minnesota, Wisconsin and/or Michigan markets and ability to travel within these markets is strongly preferred

• Advanced knowledge of underwriting territory and strong relationships with the local distribution network (local and regional agents, national and regional brokers, and select consultants).
• Demonstrated proficiency in the successful marketing and prospecting of business opportunities, as well as, relationship building and agency management skills.
• Ability to create a presence that conveys interest, conviction, and energy in maintaining relationships with external business partners.
• Strong ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing to uncover business needs.
• Ability to foster creative solutions that resonate with external business partners.
• Ability to interact with various levels of management and support personnel.
• Advanced skills in marketing, analysis, decision making/problem solving, planning and organizing; sales and negotiation and mathematical proficiency.
• Strong desire to work collaboratively and foster a team oriented environment with Claims, Risk Control and other departments.
• Willingness to travel for business purposes. Underwriters are expected to be visible with their agents and brokers in order to develop and maintain solid relationships and generate an adequate flow of qualified business.
• Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU); Associate in Risk Management designation or other professional designations are desired.