Berkley Southwest (a Berkley Company) · 2 days ago
Underwriting Manager
Berkley Southwest is a member of W. R. Berkley Corporation, offering commercial property and casualty products and services through independent agents. The Underwriting Manager will lead and develop a team of underwriters, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Financial ServicesInsuranceProfessional Services
Responsibilities
Provide effective leadership and guidance to the underwriting team, fostering a culture of underwriting excellence, accountability, and continuous professional development
Oversee and conduct regular performance reviews, establish clear goals, and monitor production metrics to ensure underwriting quality and achievement of business objectives
Actively track and report on key performance indicators for the portfolio, including pipeline activity, quoting volume, new business generation, overall book composition, business mix, retention rates, loss performance, and rate attainment
Maintain a hands-on approach to daily underwriting activities, ensuring all tasks are completed in compliance with regulatory requirements, production targets, quality standards, and service expectations
Develop individualized development plans for team members, supporting career growth and skill enhancement through coaching, mentoring, and targeted training initiatives
Lead talent management activities, including interviewing, hiring, onboarding, training, assigning and directing work, evaluating performance, and addressing employee concerns in accordance with company policies and applicable laws
Cultivate and maintain strong agency relationships through regular travel within the assigned territory, representing the company with professionalism and integrity
Collaborate with the underwriting team to develop, document, and continuously improve standard operating procedures, identifying inefficiencies and implementing innovative solutions to optimize workflow and results
Design, deliver, and update training programs on underwriting topics and procedures to ensure team proficiency and compliance with evolving standards
Assume responsibility for the onboarding and comprehensive training of new hires within the underwriting function, ensuring a smooth transition and rapid integration into the team
Review and analyze management reports to verify achievement of production, quality, and service standards, implementing corrective actions or process improvements as needed
Conduct periodic quality audits to ensure proper file documentation and adherence to compliance requirements, proactively addressing any gaps or deficiencies
May be responsible for managing underwriting of new and renewal accounts for a designated territory, with a focus on key agency relationships and profitable portfolio growth
Participate in the evaluation and testing of underwriting systems, including policy processing, online submission platforms, imaging, and workflow tools, contributing to system enhancements and operational efficiency
Lead or contribute to special projects and initiatives as assigned, demonstrating adaptability and a commitment to organizational success
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in insurance or related field and/or six 6+ years commercial lines underwriting experience required with demonstrated expertise in multi-line products including rating, coverage, processing, and underwriting preferred
Strong ability to communicate complex underwriting concepts through visual, verbal, and written instruction, supporting team development and knowledge transfer
Demonstrated discretion and independent judgment in decision-making, utilizing available data and sound logic to address diverse underwriting scenarios
Effective presentation skills, with the ability to convey information clearly in one-on-one and small group settings to colleagues, agents, and customers
Professional and approachable demeanor in all business interactions, fostering positive relationships with team members, agency partners, and external stakeholders
Proficient in researching, analyzing, and interpreting documentation, procedure manuals, and rating tools to support team performance and resolve issues
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and consistently meet established deadlines
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to comprehend and convey instructions, correspondence, and memos effectively
Advanced proficiency in PC software applications, including Microsoft Word and Excel, as well as proprietary company systems and digital underwriting platforms
Commitment to continuous professional development and the consistent demonstration of WRBC Leadership Core Competencies and Innovation Behaviors
Knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry standards relevant to commercial lines underwriting
Ability to consistently demonstrate the WRBC Leadership Core Competencies and Innovation Behaviors
Preferred
Prior leadership experience preferred
Benefits
Competitive compensation
Paid time off
Comprehensive wellness benefits and programs
Employer funded health savings account
Profit sharing
401k
Paid parental leave
Employee stock purchase plan
Tuition assistance
Professional continuing education
Company
Berkley Southwest (a Berkley Company)
At Berkley Southwest, we're pioneering the future of insurance with a steadfast commitment to reliability, innovation, and unparalleled service.
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageCompany data provided by crunchbase