Administrative Specialist, Advanced Underwriting

iA Financial Group•Edmonton, AB

42d•$55,000•Hybrid

About The Position

PPI company overview: PPI (an independent subsidiary of iA Financial) is an Insurance Marketing Organization that sits between independent advisors and insurance companies. From coast-to-coast, we provide value-added services and support such as digital tools, education, marketing, and processing, to help advisors elevate and grow their business with a socially responsible mindset. At PPI, each day you have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference when you support our independent insurance advisors in providing financial security and peace of mind to their clients: Canadian families and businesses. When you join PPI you will be part of a diverse, inclusive and equitable place to work that values different perspectives. You will benefit from a culture that is people-focused, inclusive and collaborative with opportunities to learn and develop your skills, develop your career and make a meaningful impact. Our people drive our progress through innovative ideas and a commitment to excellence. We work hard and always ensure we have fun along the way. PPI is pleased to provide employees with the flexibility of a hybrid work environment. This role is eligible for working from home up to 3 days per week. For more information about PPI visit: www.ppi.ca. Administrative Specialist, Advanced Underwriting: The Administrative Specialist, Advanced Underwriting is a key member of the Advanced Underwriting team responsible for providing an advanced level of administrative support in the management of PPI qualifying new business and preliminary cases. Utilizing a strong understanding of all aspects of both the administrative and underwriting processes, the Administrative Specialist, Advanced Underwriting supports PPI Underwriters, working closely with our Advisors and carriers to facilitate submission and ongoing management of PPI-qualifying and preliminary cases.

Requirements

Must be fluently bilingual, both oral and written, in French and English (mandatory), as the incumbent will need to collaborate closely with stakeholders to manage case coordination, reporting and risk assessment activities, and to build relationships with advisors and colleagues
Undergraduate degree in a business-related program desirable
Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a financial environment
Industry designation(s) (FLMI, ACS, AIAA) desirable
Proven business knowledge of life insurance industry and products
Considerable experience in a highly service oriented role
Strong written and oral communication skills
Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to develop and maintain relationships
Demonstrated analytical skills and problem-solving abilities
Excellent organization and time management skills with proven ability to handle multiple tasks and move between projects continuously
Initiative to be innovative and creative with developing new ideas and concepts
Proven ability to handle confidential material with the highest level of discretion
Demonstrated maturity and ability to respond appropriately in stressful situations
Advanced degree of skill with Microsoft software applications, in particular, Word, Excel and Outlook, as well Internet proficiency

Nice To Haves

Undergraduate degree in a business-related program desirable
Industry designation(s) (FLMI, ACS, AIAA) desirable

Responsibilities

Maintain internal Advanced Underwriting databases to include confidential underwriting-specific files, underwriting resource information and key contacts section.
Establish and maintain preliminary files in accordance with the Preliminary File protocol, including ordering all necessary preliminary requirements as directed by the PPI Underwriter and completing necessary follow-up.
Collaborate closely with advisors and vendors to coordinate scheduling and special requirements, including EI preparation and exception handling (e.g., short notice, special instructions, fee approval), to ensure efficient processing and clear expectation management.
Contact doctors directly as required to clarify details and/or to help expedite handling.
Ongoing collaboration with PPI Underwriter in management of complex and high‑value advanced underwriting cases from initial intake through submission, underwriting coordination, carrier approval, and transition to New Business.
Liaise with colleagues on operations teams to ensure appropriate action is taking place on any advanced underwriting submitted cases.
At the direction and supervision of senior team members, conduct internet research as part of the underwriting risk assessment process.
Apply strong judgment to identify material, relevant findings and distinguish them from non‑material information.
Proactively identify, escalate, and help mitigate potential underwriting risks that could materially impact case outcomes.
In consultation with team members, determine when files need to be closed based on UW protocol, notify advisor and ensure the file is flagged for invoicing.
Work closely with Marketing Resources counterparts to manage and share applicable case information through WealthServ and other formats on an on-going basis to ensure all parties have access to relevant information and are well-informed of identified cases and specific underwriting initiatives.
Update weekly reports and maintain internal tracking systems as required.
Enhance and strengthen reporting of management data to provide relevant data to more effectively performance and chart direction.
Take on or provide assistance with other projects or tasks as necessary and as directed by the Team Leader, Advanced Underwriting.