Manager, Contract Surety

Aviva•Toronto, ON

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

Individually we are people, but together we are Aviva. Individually these are just words, but together they are our Values – Care, Commitment, Community, and Confidence. At Aviva Canada, we put people first, our employees, our customers, and our communities. We’re proud of a culture built on care, inclusion, and collaboration, where your voice matters and your growth is supported. We’re not just about insurance; we’re about making a real difference by protecting what matters most. The Opportunity At Aviva, we are committed to excellence, collaboration, and innovation. As a Manager, Contract Surety – Ontario, you will be responsible for underwriting and managing a portfolio of contract surety business while supporting broker relationships and contributing to profitable growth within the Ontario region. This role is accountable for hands‑on underwriting, sound credit evaluation, and portfolio management, while partnering closely with senior leaders to ensure alignment with Aviva’s underwriting standards, risk appetite, and control framework. The successful candidate will bring strong financial acumen and sound business judgment to assess contractor financial strength, experience, credit history, and character.

Requirements

5+ years of experience working with financial statements, ideally related to construction or contracting firms.
Solid knowledge of construction, finance, accounting, contract law, and risk management.
Demonstrated ability to analyze financial results and apply credit analytics to underwriting decisions.
Experience supporting underwriting recommendations and risk selection decisions.
Strong relationship‑building skills with the ability to influence both internal and external partners.
Sound judgment, critical thinking, and clear communication skills (written and verbal).
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
Highly organized with a strong interest in the surety line of business.
Self‑motivated, team‑oriented, and results‑driven.
University degree or equivalent experience.

Nice To Haves

Accounting designation (CPA or equivalent) is considered an asset.
Exposure to contract surety underwriting in a regional or national portfolio.
Strong curiosity and learning mindset with an interest in growing into increasingly complex account stewardship.
Confidence collaborating with senior underwriters and business leaders.

Responsibilities

Underwrite and manage a portfolio of contract surety accounts in accordance with Aviva’s underwriting guidelines and Risk & Control Framework.
Analyze financial statements, credit history, and related risk factors to assess creditworthiness and financial strength of contractors.
Support the administration and oversight of surety risks and policies, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
Prepare underwriting recommendations and present risks outside delegated authority to appropriate approval levels.
Partner with Senior Managers and regional leadership on complex accounts and broker strategies.
Build and maintain effective relationships with brokers and contractors to support retention and profitable growth.
Support marketing and business development initiatives, including broker meetings and targeted growth strategies.
Review account renewals and endorsements in line with established authority levels.
Contribute to portfolio monitoring, performance analysis, and reporting.
Act as a trusted collaborator to internal partners including Claims, Finance, Reinsurance, and Head Office teams.
Provide coaching, guidance, and informal mentoring to junior team members as required.

Benefits

Eligibility for annual bonus
Retirement savings
Share plan
Health benefits
Personal wellness
Volunteer opportunities
Outstanding career development opportunities
Support for professional development education
Competitive vacation package with the option to purchase 5 extra days off per year
Corporate wellness programs to support our employees’ physical and mental health