Underwriting Associate

• Prepares and approves renewals for accounts within authority limit with a focus on long term profitability, retention and achieving branch and company pricing goals.
• Based on branch established guidelines, leverages negotiation skills to obtain adequate rate.
• Reviews account information, including coverage details, claims history, and any relevant updates or changes.
• Evaluates the risk profile of each account and assess its eligibility for renewal based on established underwriting guidelines. 
• For accounts outside authority, prepares information for underwriter to complete the renewal.
• Communicates with agents to ensure all renewal information has been requested and received.  
• Regularly collaborates with underwriters throughout the renewal process ensuring a holistic approach to managing the agency book of business. 
• Maintains proper file documentation.
• Develops relationships with agents by providing excellent customer service to promote renewal retention. 
• Builds and nurtures relationships with agents by regularly engaging in meaningful interactions, such as face-to-face meetings, virtual meetings, phone conversations, and written communication. 
• Responds to concerns or issues raised by agents regarding endorsements and renewals promptly and effectively, collaborating with internal teams to find solutions that meet the needs of both the carrier and agency. 
• Reviews and approves endorsements that fall within a specified list of requirements and within authority. 
• Underwrites and provides endorsement quotes to agents.
• Corresponds with agents for additional information. 
• Assesses the potential risks associated with proposed endorsements, taking into account factors such as policy coverage, loss history and claims data to evaluate the overall impact on the policy.   
• Determines if additional information or assessments are required for accurate decision-making. 
• Reviews and approves reinstatements and cancellations.  Assists agents with policy billing inquiries.
• Performs support duties for branch departments including but not limited to, ordering and analyzing reports as appropriate, reviewing drivers, and completing monthly projects.   
• Collaborates with experienced underwriters and territory management team members to develop understanding of company and branch risk appetite, underwriting resources, and systems.

Education & Experience:

• Associate’s degree or equivalent work experience
• One year of insurance industry experience or related experience
• Bachelor’s degree may be considered in lieu of the insurance industry experience requirement

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Attention to detail and accurate data entry skills
• Good personal computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft products
• General knowledge of insurance terminology
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Strong negotiation skills
• Ability to work in a team setting as well as independently
• Occasional travel; a valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle report per company standards required if driving