Contract Surety Bonds Senior Underwriter - Chicago

The Jonus Group•Chicago, IL

5d•$175,000 - $220,000•Hybrid

About The Position

A leading national insurance organization is seeking a Contract Surety Underwriting Manager for its office in Orange, California . This role offers a flexible hybrid schedule and requires travel within the assigned regional territory. The ideal candidate is an experienced surety professional with strong underwriting judgment, market presence, and leadership capability.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.
7+ years of relevant surety or financial analysis experience .
Strong analytical, relationship‑building, and communication skills.
Ability to travel within the assigned territory.

Nice To Haves

Preferred fields of study: Finance, Accounting, Business, or related areas .
Professional designations preferred or in progress: AFSB CPA RPLU
Leadership, mentoring, or supervisory experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

Manage underwriting of low to moderately complex contract surety risks , including selection, pricing, retention, growth, and profitability within delegated authority.
Exercise independent judgment and initiative to support business objectives.
Maintain a high level of customer service with agents, brokers, and principals.
Review new submissions; determine terms including limits, credit structures, deductibles, conditions, and work programs.
Price business in alignment with company guidelines and market conditions.
Conduct underwriting investigations as needed (financial reviews, bank meetings, site visits, interviews with owners/creditors/architects/engineers, etc.).
Assess risk quality and compliance with underwriting rules and standards.
Order, review, and analyze required financial and credit materials, including: Credit reports Bank agreements Financial statements Underwriting surveys
Make recommendations on risks above authority level .
Maintain and monitor accounts through underwriting platforms and analysis tools.
Prepare internal and external communications regarding underwriting decisions and issues.
Build and sustain strong business relationships to retain accounts and develop new opportunities.
Visit agents, brokers, and principals to support market development and divisional goals.
Explain, position, and market surety products and services effectively.
Apply underwriting guidelines, rating rules, and regulatory requirements.
Provide support, guidance, and occasional mentoring to junior associates.
May manage direct reports, including performance coaching, development, and talent decisions.
Perform additional duties as assigned.