Program Underwriter

Appalachian Underwriters, Inc.•Knoxville, TN

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Program Underwriter underwrites and manages workers’ compensation accounts within Wholesure’s program portfolio. The role evaluates risk, determines appropriate pricing and coverage, maintains underwriting discipline, and supports profitable program growth. It also serves as a resource for team members and helps maintain relationships with agents, carrier partners, and internal departments. The position requires an on-site presence to support collaboration, team leadership, and cross-functional partnership. The employer describes a comprehensive benefits and perks offering, with eligibility and waiting periods potentially applying and benefits varying by subsidiary and location.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of workers’ compensation underwriting principles, classifications, rating, coverage, and regulatory requirements.
Demonstrated ability to evaluate complex risks, exercise sound underwriting judgment, and manage an assigned book of business within established authority.
Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and relationship-management skills, with the ability to work effectively with agents, carrier partners, and internal teams.
At least 5 years of workers’ compensation underwriting experience, including independently underwriting and managing a book of business.
High-level proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in business, insurance, risk management, or a related field preferred.
Professional insurance designation such as CPCU, ARM, AU, or similar preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Review, analyze, and underwrite new and renewal workers’ compensation submissions within established carrier guidelines and delegated authority.
Evaluate exposures, loss history, experience modification factors, classifications, payroll, operations, financial condition, and other relevant risk characteristics.
Determine appropriate pricing, terms, conditions, deductibles, and coverage requirements.
Approve, decline, or modify risks based on underwriting judgment and program appetite.
Manage an assigned book of business with a focus on profitability, retention, production, and service.
Communicate underwriting decisions clearly and promptly to agents and brokers.
Negotiate terms while maintaining program standards and carrier expectations.
Ensure underwriting files are complete, accurate, and properly documented.
Monitor outstanding subjectivities, inspections, loss-control recommendations, audits, and other post-bind requirements.
Work with premium audit, claims, accounting, compliance, and operations to resolve account issues.
Maintain knowledge of workers’ compensation rules, classifications, filings, regulatory requirements, and market conditions.
Assist with carrier audits, underwriting reviews, and program reporting.
Identify trends or emerging issues and escalate material concerns to program leadership.
Provide technical guidance and support to underwriters and underwriting assistants.
Participate in training, workflow improvements, and special projects as assigned.