Manager - Contract

Manager- Contract Underwriting

Berkley Surety is a highly professional, service-oriented surety underwriting management company, providing a full spectrum of bonds for contract, environmental, and commercial surety accounts through multiple distribution channels in both the United States and Canada. We write on behalf of W. R. Berkley Corporation member company Berkley Insurance Company, which has an A.M. Best rating of A+ (Superior). We pride ourselves on building strong relationships with our agents. We highly value the insight and expertise our agency partners bring to the table which helps us provide timely and predictable surety solutions.

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Responsibilities

As a Manager- Contract Underwriting, you will manage, produce, and underwrite new and renewal business from assigned agents/brokers in the primary line of business. Your role will be crucial in achieving budgeted financial results through new business acquisition, retention of business, and effective price management. You will actively participate in planning and expense management processes and collaborate with a team of Line of Business colleagues and other critical internal/external business associates. This position involves both outside and inside business development and includes direct responsibility for agency development and management within a book of business.

Key Responsibilities:

• Underwriting Excellence: Independently underwrite, assess, and manage a portfolio of accounts, including performance and non-performance bonds.
• Strategic Relationship Building: Develop and leverage agency/client relationships through high visibility with agents, brokers, and clients.
• Travel & Development: Plan and execute regular travel to enhance new and existing producer and account relationships. Prepare and share meeting agendas, obtain follow-up documentation, evaluate accounts, and submit detailed submission memos for credit approval.
• Communication & Collaboration: Communicate the company's mission and objectives with confidence, professionalism, and empathy. Maintain and manage workflow with agency representatives, meeting all company standards and expectations.
• Documentation & Compliance: Ensure accurate underwriting documentation and adherence to documentation standards. Maintain the accuracy and integrity of all information in account files.
• Financial Management: Participate in the premium budget and expense process for the profit center.
• Leadership & Mentorship: Assist in the development, mentoring, or supervision of junior underwriters and trainees.
• Continuous Improvement: Perform other duties as assigned to support the team's success.

Qualifications

• Educational Background: Minimum 4-year degree or related industry experience. Business/Finance/Accounting majors preferred, but not required.
• Industry Experience: 10+ years of Surety industry or related experience required. Banking or Credit Analysis background is a plus.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret financial statements, bond forms, contract documents, and government regulations.
• Communication Skills: Effective oral and written communication skills. Ability to write clear and effective reports and business correspondence.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Strong analytical and decision-making skills. Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in automation tools (i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Lotus Notes, U/W System, etc.).
• Organizational Skills: Ability to organize and handle medium to complex volumes of information.
• Team Player: Ability to work independently and in a team environment. Self-motivation and an outgoing orientation with a strong customer focus.

Why Join Us?

• Innovative Environment: Be part of a forward-thinking company that values innovation and creativity.
• Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement.
• Collaborative Culture: Work with a supportive and dynamic team that values collaboration and mutual success.
• Competitive Compensation: Attractive salary and benefits package.

The Company is an equal employment opportunity employer

Additional Company Details

We do not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiting agencies or firms. The company offers a competitive compensation plan and robust benefits package for full time regular employees including: Base Salary Range: $130-225K Depending on Experience Eligible to participate in annual discretionary bonus Benefits include: Health, dental, vision, dental, life, disability, wellness, paid time off, 401(k) and profit-sharing plans The actual salary for this position will be determined by a number of factors, including the scope, complexity and location of the role; the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate; and other conditions of employment.