What are the responsibilities and job description for the Small Business Underwriter position at Westfield?
Job Title: Small Business Underwriter
Employee Status: Regular
Schedule: Full-time
Location: Hybrid - defined as three days in office if residence is within 50 miles of Westfield Center, OH or Remote - if residence is over 50 miles from Westfield Center, OH
About Us:
You’re ready to make your mark where people care about each other. Where your work is meaningful. And where your unique perspectives are welcome. Think about joining Westfield, a company focused on what’s most important – the people behind our policies.
Westfield was founded in 1848 by a small group of hard-working farmers who believed in the promise of the future and the power of the individual. Today, as one of the nation’s leading property and casualty (P&C) companies, we remain true to their vision and are dedicated to making a positive difference in our customers’ lives.
Responsibilities:
- Responsible for underwriting profitability growth and retention of new and renewal business that is consistent with SB underwriting strategies.
- Analyzes new business & renewal accounts, including risk assessment, terms and conditions and pricing. Recommends submissions/renewals for acceptance or declination within established appetite.
- Develops relationships with agencies, producers and other distribution partners (producers). and works to understands their needs.
- Negotiates effectively with producers to gain profitable business.
- Overcomes objections and turns producer declinations into proactive sales.
- Influences current and prospective agencies, producers and other distribution partners. to represent and promote Westfield products and services to customers.
- Notifies producers of adverse underwriting decisions, underwriting requirements, status and declinations.
- Partners with Territory Managers in evaluating portfolio of submissions to identify opportunities to improve producer and territory performance.
- Utilizes data and analytics in managing territory and driving results.
- Answers questions from agencies, producers, distribution partners, policyholders or other external contacts and escalates issues to leadership as necessary.
- Keeps current on state/territory issues and regulations, industry activity and trends, and make recommendations as a subject matter expert of this information with team members, particularly the SB Underwriting Team Leader.
- Collaborates with and leverages corporate shared services functions to bring the Small Business competitive strategy to life and achieve Small Business results; aligns with corporate governance while maintaining a singular focus on the small business customer. Builds and utilizes strong partnerships to drive alignment for the mutual benefit of both Small Business and the organization.
- Travels occasionally in order to participate in special assignments, training, and/or travel between office locations.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 3 years underwriting of Commercial and/or Small Business P&C insurance experience.
- Industry and marketplace experience and knowledge that drives positive impacts for the zone and organization.
- Delivers messages in a clear, compelling, and concise manner; articulates messages in a way that is broadly understandable; adjusts communication content and style to meet need of diverse audience; actively listens and checks for understanding.
- Experience tactfully and persuasively handling conflict.
- Experience maintaining a high degree of customer service focus and professionalism.
- Experience analyzing problems and developing strategies for resolution.
- Experience working in a fast-paced environment while prioritizing and completing work efficiently and effectively.
- Bachelor’s degree or commensurate experience.
- Valid driver’s license and a driving record that conforms to company standards.
- Physical essential functions: ability to work 40 hours in an office environment (sitting, standing, on a computer, etc.), operate office related technology (computer, phone, etc.), travel as required.
Westfield offers a Total Rewards program that focuses on compensation, benefits and wellness, and includes perks like 401(k), pension plan, annual incentive, education reimbursement, onsite fitness center or gym reimbursement and casual dress. Work/life balance, recognition, and learning and career development are all part of a rewarding career with Westfield.
Learn more about current opportunities at www.westfieldinsurance.com/careers.
We are an equal opportunity employer/minority/female/disability/protected veteran.
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