Senior Underwriter, Specialty Programs

You have a clear vision of where your career can go. And we have the leadership to help you get there. At CNA, we strive to create a culture in which people know they matter and are part of something important, ensuring the abilities of all employees are used to their fullest potential.
The Senior Underwriter, Programs is responsible for using technical, sales and analytical skills to provide insurance solutions that help CNA's Program based customers manage risk. The Underwriter will work with leadership to thoroughly understand CNA's strategies and appetites and will use internal and external data to make appropriate individual and portfolio risk decisions.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Underwriting Expertise

• Reviews applications and financial requirements for risks requiring complex underwriting skills. Determines acceptability of Program in accordance with CNA's guidelines and standards.
• Determines the need for additional evidence of insurability and appropriate strategy
• Understands pricing components and rating methodology as well as use of the predictive modeling tools; prices risk based on financial and competitive analysis
• Uses all appropriate underwriting tools, disciplines and knowledge of strategies to ensure underwriting guidelines are followed
• Demonstrates technical underwriting skills through strategic, thorough account reviews and file documentation
• Prepares or analyzes information on adverse underwriting decisions, rate appeals, underwriting requirements, status and declinations in order to drive results within the assigned territory
• Communicates in clear and concise manner with CNA Partners
• Adheres to letter of authority as assigned.
• Works collaboratively with CNA's management and actuarial team to ensure prudent underwriting decisions
• Performs a combination of duties in accordance with departmental guidelines.

Portfolio Management

• Manages growth of the portfolio to achieve gross written premium, profitability, rate, retention, product mix, new business and portfolio management goals
• Prioritizes time and resources to effectively manage and optimize producer performance
• Demonstrates in-depth knowledge of CNA's products and appetite while clearly communicating CNA's position at the point of sale
• Notifies brokers of adverse underwriting decisions, rate changes, underwriting requirements, status and declinations.
• May provide guidance and assistance to other underwriters and to other functional areas
• Works with more specialists or management on risks exceeding authority level or requiring special handling.

Sales & Distribution Management

• Builds/maintains rigorous sales practices using all CNA systems including SalesForce.com and other sales tools and disciplines
• Develops producer relationships to build pipeline, intelligence, and drives performance to meet and exceed results
• Develops and implements distributor specific plans, monitors performance, and adjusts plan to ensure a substantial pipeline for future profitable growth
• Drives effective relationship management and customer activities to build trust, facilitate negotiation and secure commitment with the customer
• May perform additional duties as assigned

In all responsibilities and interactions, all employees are expected to adopt and align with CNA's Winning Behaviours - to be externally focused, accountable, collaborative, innovative, inclusive and continuously learning.
QUALIFICATIONS:

• University degree, combined with CIP designation (or progress towards completion) and 5 years of underwriting experience.
• Knowledge of underwriting processes, coverages, and tools to gather and evaluate information in order to reach appropriate decisions on renewals and new business
• Ability to uncover customer needs, position specific solutions, handle objections and close deals
• Ability to exercise judgment, negotiate and make sound business decisions effectively based on level of authority
• Strong ability to identify, analyze and solve problems as well as the ability to learn rapidly, adapt quickly to change, exercise influence, and manage and prioritize multiple concurrent projects
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills
• Ability to work independently and exercise independent judgment and to make critical business decisions effectively.
• Demonstrated coaching skills.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and other business-related software.
• Advanced knowledge of underwriting and insurance industry theories and practices. Demonstrated high level of technical expertise and product specific knowledge.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills. Ability to effectively interact with all levels of CNA's internal and external business partners.

At CNA, we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants based on job-related qualifications and ability to perform a job. If you require an accommodation during the hiring process or upon hire, please inform Human Resources. If a selected applicant requests accommodation during the recruitment process, CNA will consult with the applicant in order to provide suitable accommodation that takes into account the applicant's accessibility needs.