Lead Underwriter, US Excess Casualty

AXIS (AXIS Capital) • Chicago, IL

102d

About The Position

This is your opportunity to join AXIS Capital – a trusted global provider of specialty lines insurance and reinsurance. We stand apart for our outstanding client service, intelligent risk taking and superior risk adjusted returns for our shareholders. We also proudly maintain an entrepreneurial, disciplined and ethical corporate culture. As a member of AXIS, you join a team that is among the best in the industry. At AXIS, we believe that we are only as strong as our people. We strive to create an inclusive and welcoming culture where employees of all backgrounds and from all walks of life feel comfortable and empowered to be themselves. This means that we bring our whole selves to work. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or creed, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, age, marital status, civil union status, family or parental status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Accommodation is available upon request for candidates taking part in the selection process.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in E&S excess casualty underwriting, with significant experience in Construction, Manufacturing, and Transportation risks.
• Proven expertise in underwriting large, complex, high-value risks within the E&S market.
• Strong understanding of Construction, Manufacturing, and Transportation and their unique risk factors.
• Ability to influence strategic decisions and collaborate effectively with senior leadership.
• In-depth knowledge of market trends, regulatory environments, and competitive dynamics in the excess casualty sector.
• Excellent analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills, with a proven ability to build and maintain relationships with brokers and clients.
• Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to identifying and capitalizing on business opportunities.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Risk Management, or related field. Advanced degree or professional designation (e.g., CPCU) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the underwriting process for high-profile and complex E&S excess casualty accounts, particularly within the Construction, Manufacturing, Transportation, and other areas.
• Partner with the Excess Casualty Leadership and various business partners (Claims, Actuarial, Distribution, and Operations) to support and influence the strategic direction of the Construction, Manufacturing, Transportation, and other areas.
• Contribute to the development and enhancement of underwriting strategies that align with market conditions and the company’s long-term goals.
• Continuously monitor market trends, emerging risks, and the competitive landscape in the Excess Casualty space.
• Underwrite complex and high-value risks with a focus on balancing opportunity with prudent risk management.
• Liaise with senior leaders, including the Regional Unit Leader and the Head of Excess Casualty, to align underwriting activities with broader business objectives.
• Maintain and develop strong relationships with key brokers and clients.
• Champion the adoption of innovative underwriting practices and contribute to the development of new product offerings.
• Act as a mentor and resource for other underwriters, sharing your expertise and best practices to support the development of the team.

Benefits

• Comprehensive and competitive benefits package including medical plans for employees and their families.
• Health and wellness programs.
• Retirement plans.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Paid vacation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees