[Hiring] Personal Lines Property and Casualty Underwriter - ll @Portage Mutual Careers Centre

Role Description

As an Intermediate Underwriter, you’ll play a crucial role in supporting our underwriting team by:

• Evaluating and underwriting moderately complex, high-value property and casualty insurance risks in line with company guidelines and risk appetite.
• Conducting strategic risk assessments and leveraging market research to inform underwriting decisions.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with brokers and internal stakeholders to support business development.
• Mentoring junior underwriters and providing expert guidance to support team capability and consistency.
• Representing the company at industry events and ensuring underwriting practices stay aligned with evolving regulations and market trends.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3-5 years of progressive underwriting experience within property and casualty insurance sectors.
• Strong understanding of risk analysis, pricing strategies, and product development across key segments such as property and casualty insurance.
• In-depth knowledge of risk selection methodologies, insurance contracts, rating models, and sources of risk information.
• Working knowledge of related areas including claims, risk management, and accounting to enhance underwriting decisions.
• Deep familiarity with underwriting philosophies, statutory constraints, technical manuals, and rating programs.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant underwriting systems (e.g., Guidewire), with the ability to adapt to new technologies.
• Proven ability to establish and maintain professional, long-term relationships with brokers and internal partners.
• Skilled at working with internal teams and brokers to deliver excellent service and optimal underwriting outcomes.
• Self-motivated and proactive in identifying and capitalizing on new business opportunities with brokers.
• Attentive listener with the ability to respond to broker needs clearly and professionally.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, with experience in training, mentoring, and guiding team members.
• Strong analytical capabilities, with a proven track record of assessing and managing risks effectively.
• Successful history of developing and implementing impactful underwriting strategies.
• Consistently applies accuracy, thoroughness, and meticulousness in all aspects of work.
• Ability to work independently while effectively collaborating within a team environment.
• Open to change, with a focus on continuous improvement and personal development.
• Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• CIP designation completed, actively in progress, or willing to work towards.

Requirements

• Evaluate and underwrite new and existing business, renewals and endorsements, focusing on moderately complex and high-value property and casualty insurance risks.
• Uphold the quality and profitability of the program’s portfolio by adhering to underwriting standards and referring risks beyond delegated authority to supervisory levels.
• Work in partnership with other departments to identify key trends and provide strategic recommendations.
• Demonstrate commitment to effective risk management by following up on outstanding recommendations and ensuring their implementation.
• Analyze large loss events, provide detailed reports, and discuss remediation strategies to mitigate future risks.
• Engage in market research to identify emerging trends, enabling the development of innovative product offerings.
• Identify potential issues in loss ratios and risk trends. Implement effective strategies to address anomalies and ensure portfolio stability.
• Guide and support junior underwriters, enhancing their technical expertise and decision-making capabilities.
• Effectively communicate and clarify underwriting business rules and guidelines to brokers.
• Address inquiries and provide prompt, clear responses to brokers through both verbal and written channels.
• Deliver a superior broker experience characterized by confidence, responsibility, and professionalism.
• Stay current with industry trends, emerging developments, and regulatory changes to ensure underwriting practices remain compliant and competitive.
• Act as a subject matter expert, representing the company at industry events, forums, and conferences.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and incentive plan.
• Comprehensive health benefits.
• Pension plan.
• Generous paid time off, including personal days.
• Access to diverse learning resources and tuition reimbursement for relevant programs.
• Flexible work environment with options for remote, in-office, and hybrid arrangements.
• Supportive and diverse team culture.
• Opportunities for career growth and development.