AVP - Surety Underwriting Manager

UFG is currently seeking a Surety Underwriting Manager who will be accountable for using relationship-building skills to help underwriters produce and underwrite a profitable book of surety business by working closely with independent agents. Strong analytical skills will be put to good use to evaluate new opportunities for acceptability within company risk parameters. This position has a key role in setting company risk parameters. It is expected that this individual will be traveling with primary underwriters to visit current and potential contractors' places of business to better assess their capabilities. As a leader, the Surety Underwriting Manager will promote a great company image and provide excellent customer service to those encountered, including all surety department staff. This role is also responsible for assisting other managers in the development of underwriters and staff. They would also be a strong advocate for all surety products, including non-contract surety. They help identify, set, implement, and monitor goals, objectives, and direction for the surety department. Extensive travel is required, including frequent overnight travel.

Responsibilities :

• Travel may include agency engagement, call on larger contracting accounts, attend national and regional meetings, seminars, evaluate underwriting staff performing contractor / agency visits and deliver contingency checks as needed.
• Daily review of accounts and bid requests that exceed individual underwriter's authority levels.
• Contribute to decisions on and communicate departmental direction and underwriting philosophy.
• Project premium for the region at least quarterly.
• Administer expense management for the region in alignment with goals for the surety unit.
• Administer quarterly performance reviews for direct reports and contribute to those that report up through you.
• Assist in setting employee goals through APPR format, hire new staff, and handle needed performance issues which could include terminations.
• Assist with developing departmental goals, planning, and salary administration.
• Key role in quality assurance, portfolio analysis and compliance. Oversee and personally conduct monthly file audits on new business and as needed on each underwriter.
• Stay abreast of industry information regarding competition, pertinent laws and legal occurrences, rates, underwriting trends, etc., and pass this information on to the staff.
• Ensure United's surety unit offers service that is amongst the top in our industry.
• Review and make recommendations on filings for various states, including rates, commissions, rules, and programs.
• Set up training seminars, encourage staff to take classes, identify training needs, assist with professional development for underwriting staff.
• Projects related to efficiency, automation, and other special interests of the department or company.
• Visit agents to update them on products, ensure marketing materials state our intended purpose, resolve problems, solicit new agents, etc.

Qualifications : Education :

Concentration in Business Administration, Economics, Finance or Accounting are preferred.

Certifications / Designations :

Experience :

Skills & Knowledge : Skills :

Knowledge :

Working Conditions :

The salary for this position generally ranges between $157,000 - $230,000. This range is an estimate, based on potential employee qualifications, operational needs and other considerations permitted by law. The range may vary above and below the stated amounts.

At UFG we offer : Competitive Pay, Annual Bonus Incentives, and Benefits Packages; Cash Balance Pension Plan, 401k Match, Tuition Reimbursement.

Salary : $157,000 - $230,000