Garage Underwriter

Berkley•Glen Allen, VA

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

At Verus Specialty Insurance, a proud member of the esteemed W.R. Berkley Corporation (NYSE: WRB), we stand as a leading Excess and Surplus Lines provider delivering comprehensive solutions across the United States. Backed by the formidable strength of a Fortune 500 titan and operating with the agility of a nimble startup, we blend the best of both worlds to foster innovation and excellence in everything we do. Our nationwide operations are supported by a robust network of select wholesale producers, ensuring that our reach and capabilities are always close at hand. We are driven by a forward-thinking leadership that champions a dynamic culture where questioning the norm is not just welcomed but expected. This ethos empowers our team to consistently surpass customer expectations and drive the industry forward. At Verus, we are more than just a company; we are a community that thrives on collaboration, growth, and taking ownership of our actions. We are constantly on the lookout for exceptional talent who are eager to contribute, innovate, and grow with us. If you are passionate about making a mark in the insurance industry and align with our vision, we eagerly await your application. Join us and be a part of a team where your contributions are valued, and your potential fully realized! The Company is an equal employment opportunity employer.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in insurance, business, finance, or a related field.
Minimum of 3 years of relevant industry experience, with a strong focus on excess and surplus lines and complex risk underwriting.
Deep understanding of the surplus lines marketplace, including peers, competitors, and market cycles.
Strong analytical and decision-making skills, with the ability to assess risk and profitability in complex scenarios.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate underwriting decisions and rationale to brokers and internal stakeholders.
Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with brokers, insureds, and colleagues.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a high degree of autonomy.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and underwriting software.
Willingness to travel as needed, including a minimum of 2 broker visits per year.

Nice To Haves

Professional designations such as CPCU, RPLU, or ARM are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Independently underwrite small to midsized garage risks, including general liability, product liability, and other specialty lines as well as handle a complex renewal book.
Develop, manage, and strengthen relationships with wholesale brokers, ensuring a steady flow of business and staying ahead of market trends. Plan, orchestrate, and lead highly effective broker meetings to strengthen relationships, address performance issues, and explore new business opportunities.
Proactively identify and address broker performance issues, ensuring alignment with company standards and fostering strong broker relationships.
Stay informed on industry developments, regulatory changes, and emerging trends, leveraging this knowledge to enhance underwriting decisions and drive business growth.
Make autonomous decisions on risk acceptance, coverage terms, and pricing within your assigned level of authority.
Consistently meet or exceed designated line of business (LOB) production metrics, contributing to the overall success of the underwriting team.
Ability to apply technical knowledge in underwriting, coverage, and pricing to manage complex risks and optimize profitability.
Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of pricing and risk selection criteria, ensuring underwriting decisions are both profitable and competitive.
Conduct a minimum of 2 trips per year to visit brokers, build relationships, and represent Verus at industry events.
Ability to properly handle referrals and ensure consistent underwriting quality across the team.
Deliver exceptional service to brokers and insureds, ensuring timely and clear communication throughout the underwriting process.
Ensure all underwriting activities comply with company guidelines, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
Perform other duties, as assigned, contributing to the overall success of the team and the company.