Head of Underwriting Spec Portfolio

Munich Re Careers•Hartford, CT

3d•$177,000 - $280,000•Remote

About The Position

This role is part of HSB's Custom Risk Solutions division, which focuses on the fast-growing segment of the P&C market, including E&S carriers, large commercial risk writers, MGAs, programs, Lloyds, and pools. The division manages over 100 client relationships and has ambitious growth goals. The Head of Portfolio Underwriting leads a group of Underwriters and collaborates with Product Managers for guidance on product directives and execution of client initiatives. This role is accountable for the profitable growth of all Alternative Markets Portfolio business. The role works with the Alternative Markets Leadership Team, Product Management and Group Corporate Underwriting (GCU) to implement and communicate underwriting policies and procedures and provide underwriting expertise to the Portfolio Underwriting staff for all product offerings. Ensures policies, procedures and insurance documentation are compliant with established corporate, regulatory, and legal requirements. This role requires close collaboration with internal stakeholders to communicate HSB’s value proposition, ensure strong product performance, and deliver excellent client experience. The Head of Underwriting will have underwriting binding authority via their letter of authority.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in Business Administration, Risk Management, Marketing, Product Management, or a related field
7+ years of underwriting or relevant insurance experience, preferably with commercial or property exposure
Experience in portfolio management, underwriting strategy, or product-driven insurance environments
Demonstrated experience leading and developing teams with strong mentoring and leadership capabilities
Strong analytical and financial acumen with experience managing P&L and influencing business results
Experience driving strategy and execution in a complex insurance or product environment
Strong interpersonal and relationship management skills
Ability to influence stakeholders and present effectively to executive-level audiences
Customer-centric mindset with strong understanding of client needs and expectations
Strategic thinker with the ability to drive innovation and continuous improvement
Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills in complex underwriting environments
Ability to collaborate cross-functionally and drive organizational alignment
Strong communication skills (verbal and written) with ability to tailor messaging to different audiences
Highly proactive with strong initiative and ability to manage ambiguity
Ability to translate data-driven insights into actionable underwriting strategies
Strong organizational awareness and ability to navigate and influence complex organizations

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree or professional designation (e.g., CPCU) preferred

Responsibilities

Lead, develop, and retain a high-performing underwriting team through coaching, performance management, and talent development
Establish clear expectations for portfolio ownership, monitoring cadence, client engagement, and documentation standards
Set portfolio growth targets and partner with leadership, Finance, and stakeholders to execute product-specific growth strategies
Own delivery of portfolio financial results including growth, profitability, and underwriting gains
Analyze portfolio performance to identify opportunities, risks, and emerging trends impacting pricing and underwriting strategy
Provide underwriting expertise, guidance, and escalation support for complex risks, referrals, and coverage decisions
Ensure adherence to underwriting guidelines, regulatory requirements, and internal governance standards
Drive continuous improvement across underwriting processes, systems, and portfolio execution
Partner with Product Managers and internal stakeholders to influence product strategy and investment decisions
Lead change management initiatives related to product, process, and technology enhancements