Underwriting Specialist - Construction Property

Zurich Insurance Group•Chicago, IL

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Zurich is seeking an Underwriting Specialist, Construction Property to join its Specialties Accounts team. The position is based in Kansas City, with possible locations in St. Louis or Chicago at the hiring manager’s discretion. Although based out of a Zurich office, the role follows a hybrid schedule, with three days per week in the office or market and a flexible schedule arranged with the manager. The position is market-facing and includes approximately 20% travel, depending on location. The specialist uses underwriting expertise, analytical skills, and knowledge of commercial construction property exposures to evaluate new and renewal business. Strong broker relationship management, sales execution, and knowledge of commercial construction property policies are needed. The proposed national salary range is $75,000 to $125,000, with eligibility for a 10% short-term incentive bonus. The role may also be eligible for bonuses and merit increases. Zurich offers competitive pay and comprehensive benefits for employees and their families.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and 3 or more years of experience in underwriting or a market-facing role; OR high school diploma or equivalent and 6 or more years of experience in claims or underwriting support; OR Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice including an associate degree and 1 or more years of experience in underwriting or a market-facing role; OR Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice including an associate degree and 4 or more years of experience in claims or underwriting support.
Knowledge of lines of business and applicable legal and regulatory guidelines.
Knowledge of time restraints for quotes on new and renewal business.
Experience with Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree.
Commercial construction property underwriting experience and broker relationships in the Kansas City region.
Ability to effectively assess risk.
Strong negotiation skills.
Superior relationship-building, active-listening, needs-analysis, and win-win negotiating skills.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
CPCU and ARM designations are a plus.

Responsibilities

Administer and monitor underwriting rules and guidelines, rating manual rules, and insurance laws and regulations.
Develop and maintain collaboration with Line of Business representatives and address other business-related needs, as appropriate.
Build and maintain relationships with agents and brokers to support business retention and acquisition.
Work with customers and distributors to determine insurance needs and provide solutions.
Support the organization’s sales culture by serving as a Help Point for agents, brokers, and customers.
Proactively seek new-account and renewal opportunities.
Complete detailed opportunity assessments with key distributors to identify growth opportunities.
Qualify accounts to align with the organization’s appetite while balancing sound business opportunities.
Conduct planned and well-prepared broker and customer calls, including on-site calls.
Evaluate new and renewal commercial construction property business.