Commercial Underwriting Director, Programs - Hybrid / Remote Opportunity in IA, West Des MoinesApply

Commercial Underwriting Director, Programs

The Underwriting Director for Programs leads the overall strategy, execution, and profit and loss performance of the GuideOne Programs business unit. This role ensures alignment of long-term strategic and financial goals with effective business processes to successfully manage delegated authority arrangements. Key responsibilities include developing underwriting capabilities and talent, cultivating strong relationships with MGAs and brokers, managing program administrators, and driving profitable growth through disciplined oversight and robust controls.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans to expand and enhance programs in alignment with organizational objectives.
• Oversee daily operations and performance of programs, driving efficiency, effectiveness, and quality outcomes.
• Optimize program structure and underwriting capacity to minimize volatility and drive sustainable, long-term growth in premium and surplus.
• Manage Programs team of underwriters and support who handle day-to-day activities in underwriting and distribution
• Cultivate key MGA and broker relationships to ensure an optimal portfolio generating steady growth and profit
• Design and develop internal capabilities that support underwriting and stewardship of profitable programs
• Collaborate with Analytics, Programs team, and other resources to monitor top and bottom-line results and identify appropriate actions as needed, including management of authority, pricing, terms and conditions, appetite, and guidelines
• Manage budget for programs team to ensure delivery of target expense ratio
• Collaborate internally with other functional teams to ensure proper governance and oversight
• Develop and refine program audit protocols to maintain underwriting integrity and regulatory compliance
• Serve as a strategic advisor to executive leadership on the MGA market landscape, competitive positioning, and emerging opportunities
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and MGA partner meetings, effectively representing and communicating overall value, vision and strategy in the marketplace

Qualifications

Skills & Knowledge :

Compensation : $138,000 - $175,000 commensurate with experience, plus bonus eligibility

Benefits : We are proud to offer a robust benefits suite that includes :