Underwriting Specialist - P&C - Commercial Ag

This role is eligible to participate in Zenith’s hybrid work schedule which provides the flexibility to work from home on select days of the week according to the in-office schedule established by regional executive leadership. 

Solicit, underwrite, and price business consistent with the Company's Underwriting Philosophy. Serve as technical resource for underwriting team on Farm and Commercial Ag underwriting guidelines, policy forms and endorsements, state regulations and rules, and policy rating process. Provide regional expertise on large and complex accounts. Leads training courses for support and professional positions.

The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Manages an assigned book of Agencies including assisting in development and management of agency business plan. (Generally will manage larger than average Farm books of business for the branch); maintaining pricing discipline regardless of market pressure.
• Operates with increased independence, such as taking a lead role in development of agency business plans.
• Expected to be regarded as a Farm & Commercial Ag expert by assigned agencies.
• Coordinates account activity across departments for assigned book.
• Acts as lead resource on any technical issue and SME for branch staff and agents.
• Develops relationships with agents & brokers through telephone interactions and performs external marketing activities (Agency calls, Agency meetings, Point of Sale meetings, etc.) clearly articulating and selling the Zenith difference as needed.
• Attends industry events as an advocate for Zenith's product and service.
• Responsible for proactively developing, growing, and maintaining strong agency relationships.
• Manages significant volume of large and complex commercial ag accounts in a fast-paced environment.
• Independently negotiates and secures facultative reinsurance on accounts with property exposures exceeding Zenith's reinsurance treaty.
• Independently negotiates and secures Equipment Breakdown reinsurance on accounts that exceed Zenith's in-house letter of authority.
• Expected to provide general guidance and direction to support personnel and underwriting staff.
• Acts as a mentor for new employees.
• Takes a lead role in analysis or projects involving underwriting.
• Acts as a national expert on specific subject or provide support to Corporate in the expansion of the underwriting guide or systems development or testing.
• Work requires independence within assigned Letter of Authority; however, it is expected that one will seek guidance on any unusual or complex exposures, problems, or issues.
• May be responsible for QARs on other's work.
• Manages schedule balancing field time with in-office commitments and work autonomously.
• Proactively markets and educates agents on our products.
• Conducts formal training sessions for agents.
• Evaluates current procedures and practices, developing and implementing new and alternate methods when appropriate,.
• Responsible for gathering competitive intelligence, making coverage and service recommendations that improve agency and customer engagement.
• Applies principles of logical thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Works productively and harmoniously with others on a consistent basis.
• Responds positively to direction and feedback on performance.
• Consistently maintains professional and appropriate demeanor.
• Performs other duties/projects as assigned.

Education Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent combination of training/experience required
• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent combination of training/experience required

Experience Qualifications

• 6 Years progressively responsible related underwriting experience required

Skills and Abilities

• Expert technical knowledge of Farm policy and underwriting rules. 
• Demonstrated willingness to share knowledge with others on a daily basis. 
• Understanding of Zenith's underwriting philosophy is a plus. 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills required (including the ability to discern when to use telephone, email, or more formal means of communication). 
• Demonstrated presentation and negotiation skills required. 
• Demonstrated ability to present persuasive verbal or written argument of all constituents (agent, peer, insured). ,
• Ability to distill complex issues to clear and concise talking points to teach others. 
• Strong math and reading skills required. 
• Valid drivers license in good standing. Periodic overnight travel may be required. 
• Strong understanding of Farm & Commercial P&C products, including farm owners, general liability, commercial property, commercial auto and commercial umbrella lines of business. 
• Ability to manage selected agencies, including the marketing role. 

Licenses and Certifications

• Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) preferred

The expected salary range for this position is $112,955.92 to $141,194.91. Actual pay will be adjusted based on experience, geographic location, and other job-related factors as permitted by law.

Qualifications may warrant placement in a different job level.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid Parental Leave
• Life, AD&D and Disability Insurance
• 401(k), Employee Share Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Education and Training Reimbursement
• Paid Leave: 3 weeks/year Vacation, 2 weeks/year Sick Leave
• 10 paid Company Holidays, 2 Personal Days, 2 Floating Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• For more information, review details on the Benefits page of our Career Site: https://www.thezenith.com/careers/benefits/

Zenith typically posts jobs for a minimum of 8 to 14 calendar days. If you are interested in any of our open positions, we encourage you to submit your application promptly.

Zenith Insurance Company is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. In compliance with California law, we are committed to fair hiring practices. Pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act (AB 1008), we will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the law. Additionally, in accordance with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, we will not inquire about an applicant’s criminal history until after a conditional offer of employment has been made.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and need assistance accessing our career center or applying for a position due to your disability, you are entitled to request an accommodation. To make a request, please contact a Human resources representative at Zenith Insurance Company.

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Salary : $112,956 - $141,195