Merchants Insurance Group · 12 hours ago
Director, Corporate Programs
Buffalo, NY
Full-time
Hybrid
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$135K/yr - $195K/yr
10+ years expMerchants Insurance Group is a leading Property and Casualty Insurer in the Northeast seeking an experienced Director, Corporate Programs to join their Corporate Headquarters in Buffalo, New York. This role is responsible for providing leadership for all program business across the organization, driving the success of the program portfolio by partnering with external and internal stakeholders.
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Responsibilities
Lead the vision, direction, and ongoing management of all corporate program initiatives, ensuring strong alignment with enterprise growth objectives
Identify, evaluate, and pursue new program opportunities and enhancements by analyzing market trends, distribution channels, competitive dynamics, and customer needs
Build strong relationships with Program Administrators and distribution partners to drive premium growth, strengthen retention, and expand market presence
Direct the research, development, and optimization of program products, including coverage design, endorsements, forms, rating, and pricing
Own program performance, including direct responsibility for achieving loss ratio, premium, and profitability goals
Oversee underwriting guidelines, technical support, compliance oversight, and referral handling across all programs
Coordinate with reinsurers on underwriting strategy, adherence to treaty requirements, and results management
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in applicable discipline
10+ years of relevant work experience; specialized program underwriting experience
5+ years management experience
Or a combination of education and experience as noted above
Effective communication and organizational skills required
Solid commercial lines underwriting background required
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to flex their personal style to build trust and open communication
Ability to resolve conflict through persuasive and effective communication and consensus building
Able to work collaboratively within large and small groups, as well as one on one to achieve desired results
Ability to champion mission and values and build commitment to organizational strategy
Ability to manage numerous projects simultaneously to include resource allocation and acquisition, scheduling, managing budgets, coaching and training
Preferred
CPCU or other insurance related coursework required desirable
Knowledge of Product Development activities is desirable
Benefits
Welcoming and positive work environment.
Colleague Appreciation events.
Flexible work arrangements, including flex scheduling and summer hours.
Hybrid work schedule. The Hybrid work schedule will require 8 full days per month in the office, with the option to work the remaining days per month at home or in the office
Competitive pay scale.
Generous paid time off package.
Full Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short Term Disability, 401(k) employer match amount is 100% up to 6% of your annual contributions. You are immediately 100% vested in the employer match dollars.
Outstanding company bonus programs.
Tuition Reimbursement.
And many more exciting company benefits!!
Company
Merchants Insurance Group
For more than 95 years Merchants Insurance Group provides quality property and casualty insurance to protect your business, home and car.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Christine Schmitt, CPA, CGMA
Executive VP & Chief Financial Officer
Stephen Cross
VP & Chief Information Officer
Recent News
Morningstar.com
2026-01-22
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