Underwriting Operations Manager

First Chicago Insurance Company (FCIC)•Bedford Park, IL

30d•$70,000 - $80,000

About The Position

We are seeking the ideal candidate for our Underwriting Operations Manager opening for our growing insurance company. The Underwriting Operations Manager is responsible for managing and enhancing operational processes within the Underwriting Department while driving innovation, compliance, and efficiency. This role emphasizes the use of advanced technologies, including AI, to optimize underwriting workflows and improve decision-making. The Manager partners with the Underwriting QA team and Underwriting Management to implement new systems and change management initiatives. Additionally, the role supports the Vice President through in-depth policy and claim reviews, identifying patterns and trends to inform training for Underwriting, Claims, Marketing, and Independent Agents. The Manager oversees compliance-related audits across all underwriting systems and processes, manages vendor relationships, and evaluates data solutions through cost-benefit analysis to ensure optimal resource utilization and operational excellence.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Business, Insurance, Risk Management, or related field (Master's preferred)
5+ years of progressive experience in insurance operations, underwriting, or related functions, with at least 2 years in a leadership/management capacity
Strong knowledge of auto insurance underwriting principles, processes, and regulatory requirements
Experience with vendor management, contract evaluation, and cost-benefit analysis of data solutions
Proven ability to identify and integrate AI/automation solutions within operational workflows
Demonstrated success in project management, system implementation, and change management
Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and develop actionable insights
Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills for cross-departmental collaboration and training facilitation
Ability to lead, mentor, and develop staff, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and insurance systems; familiarity with emerging technologies in underwriting and data analytics is a plus

Nice To Haves

Master's preferred
Familiarity with emerging technologies in underwriting and data analytics is a plus

Responsibilities

Identify and evaluate opportunities to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) and automation within underwriting operations to increase efficiency, accuracy, and compliance
Research, analyze, and recommend innovative technology solutions to enhance operational effectiveness and customer experience
Collaborate with the Underwriting Quality Assurance (QA) team to define business requirements, testing strategies, and success criteria for new systems and process improvements.
Lead the implementation and integration of new tools and technologies, ensuring alignment with underwriting goals and regulatory standards
Manage change initiatives, including communication, training, and adoption support for staff impacted by new processes or systems
Conduct in-depth reviews of policies and claims and identify patterns, trends, and improvement opportunities
Provide analytical findings to support Underwriting Management's strategic decision-making and departmental oversight
Develop training programs and materials based on identified trends to support Underwriting, Claims, Marketing, and Independent Agents
Create, administer, and facilitate compliance-related audits across all systems and processes within the Underwriting Department to ensure accuracy, consistency, and adherence to regulatory and company standards
Manage and analyze utilization of underwriting vendors, ensuring effective partnerships, contract performance, and cost efficiency
Investigate and evaluate additional data sources, conducting cost-benefit and value analysis to determine the best solutions to support underwriting objectives
Partner with underwriting, IT, claims, and other departments to streamline workflows and resolve operational challenges.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date operational documentation, training resources, and reference guides
Provide leadership, coaching, and professional development for Underwriting staff, ensuring adoption of best practices and continuous improvement
Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) and outcomes of operational, audit, vendor, and training initiatives to Underwriting Management
Participate in and lead cross-departmental projects, special initiatives, and compliance-related efforts as assigned