Executive Underwriter, Ocean Cargo

Markel•Chicago, IL

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The primary purpose of this position is to underwrite new business and renewals in a profitable manner and according to authority level and established guidelines, and drive projects having an impact on the business. Assigned larger, more important and more complex accounts. Utilize underwriting tools to determine accurate classifications, rates, and premium charges. Understand state laws, including cancellation and non-renewal, within assigned territory to properly transact business within each state. Knowledgeable in coverage forms and policy language; appropriate utilization of forms and exclusions. Assist with resolving premium audit disputes within assigned agents/brokers. Promotes the growth and development of less experienced underwriters and fosters teamwork.

Requirements

8+ years of complex retail & wholesale Inland Marine underwriting experience
Demonstrated technical knowledge and skills reflective of progression of positions of increasing responsibility.
Demonstrated ability to underwrite, negotiate, and manage complex cargo risks independently.
Strong analytical, organizational, and time management skills; able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
Demonstrated marketing and relationship building skills.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Microsoft Office skills to include MS Word and MS Excel.
Strong analytical and organizational skills.
Must be a team player that enjoys a flexible and spontaneous business environment with a desire to succeed.
US Work Authorization required. Markel does not provide visa sponsorship for this position, now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

Four year college degree and/or CPCU or similar designation preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as a senior technical underwriter with deep expertise in Marine Cargo, including international and domestic transit and stock throughput; experience with logistics and project cargo is strongly valued
Demonstrate expert understanding of Marine Cargo policy structures including broker manuscript forms.
Underwrite complex new and renewal Marine Cargo accounts in accordance with established underwriting authority, guidelines, and portfolio strategy; quote, negotiate, bind, and manage risks from initial submission through policy issuance.
Analyze and interpret complex loss histories, applying experience rating, loss rating, and actuarial concepts where appropriate; collaborate closely with internal actuarial partners to ensure technically sound pricing decisions.
Provide technical policy review, coverage, and rating guidance to brokers, internal partners, and junior underwriters.
Actively participate in large and complex risk strategy
Engage consistently in claims reviews and large loss discussions, partnering with Claims to understand loss drivers, improve risk selection, and refine underwriting strategy.
Maintain complete, audit‑ready underwriting files, ensuring compliance with documentation, authority, and governance standards.
Act as a technical mentor and subject‑matter expert for junior underwriters, supporting their underwriting judgment and development
Own and actively manage a Marine Cargo pipeline, including: Building a forward‑looking flow of submission opportunities aligned with underwriting appetite and capacity, Managing broker expectations on timing, appetite, and decision‑making, Ensuring pipeline activity translates into sustainable, profitable growth
Cultivate and strengthen retail and wholesale broker relationships across the U.S., serving as a trusted technical resource and long‑term partner.
Represent the company externally through thoughtful, innovative marketing strategies, broker meetings, industry events, and client presentations within the Marine Cargo community.
Present confidently at senior‑level underwriting meetings with brokers, insureds, and internal leadership.
Collaborate closely with Regional and Product Leadership, contributing to portfolio management, strategy, and continuous improvement of underwriting standards.