Director of Surety

Job Summary

We are seeking a talented and results-driven Director of Surety to lead and grow a high-performing Surety department. Reporting directly to executive leadership, this role is responsible for ensuring exceptional client service, driving strategic growth, and leading a team to achieve departmental objectives. The ideal candidate combines strong leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills while maintaining an active role in business development and account management. At all times, this role is responsible for adherence to the stated expectations of Sentinel’s Errors and Omissions Management Program.

Primary Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership

• Establish and execute the department’s vision and long-term strategic plan

• Drive annual growth and retention goals

• Collaborate with executive leadership to align department strategy with organizational objectives

• Business Plan Execution

• Develop and implement strategies to achieve business plan objectives

• Ensure compliance, quality control, and continuous improvement of departmental procedures

• Team Management

• Lead, coach, and evaluate team members

• Oversee workflow management and performance evaluations

• Conduct regular training on surety programs, industry updates, and operational efficiencies

• Recruitment and Talent Development

• Recruit, hire, and train department staff

• Support recruitment of new team members

• Review employee career progression and allocate resources for ongoing development

• Client Responsibilities

• Develop new business opportunities and ensure client retention

• Manage client inquiries and resolve concerns professionally

• Maintain and grow a book of business

• Generation and collection of data for new accounts

• Negotiation and placement with Surety Carriers

• Generation and communication of account placement strategy

• Technology and Carrier Relationship Management

• Evaluate technology needs to improve operational efficiency

• Maintain and strengthen relationships with surety carriers

• Support effective use of agency management and automation systems

• Industry Engagement

• Stay informed on market trends and technical surety knowledge

• Participate in professional development, industry associations, and committees

• Community outreach and involvement

• Contribute to Thought Leadership with articles or presentations on various topics

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of managerial and leadership experience

• Minimum 5 Years Of Experience In Contract Surety

• Bachelor’s degree in business management or related field (or equivalent experience)

• Active Property & Casualty Agent/Broker License in good standing

• Demonstrated progression of increasing responsibility

• Experience with agency management systems and adaptability to new technology

• Responsible for the oversight, management, and implementation of all strategies as they relate to management and servicing of an account

• Oversight of a proactive and positive client experience, working in coordination with the service team

• Overseeing the account claims process in coordination with the claims team

• Consistent Center of Influence Development and Management

• Participation in weekly meetings regarding client experience, service, renewal retention, and claims

• Comfortable and fluid in usage of CRM tools - Salesforce, LinkedIn, and Zywave

• Collection and management of Accounts Receivable

• Ability to carry out complex tasks with many concrete and abstract variables

• Strong computer skills and familiarity with tools such as Outlook, Excel, Word, Zywave and CRM

• Ability to manage complex projects simultaneously

• Ability to work independently and take the lead on all elements of client servicing

• Negotiation and presentation skills

• Personal And Organizational Development

• Sets priorities and manages workflow to ensure efficient, timely and accurate processing of Transactions

• Maintains a cordial and effective relationship with clients, co-workers, carriers, vendors, and other business contacts

• Remains up to date regarding industry information, new product information, legislation, coverage, and technology to continuously improve knowledge and performance

• Interact with others effectively by utilizing good communications skills, cooperating purposefully, and providing information and guidance, as needed, to achieve the business goals of the agency

Working Conditions

A fast-paced environment. A large number of multiple steps in complex system performed with accuracy and speed are essential to the successful completion of tasks.

Pay Range

$100,000-120,000+ Commissions

The specific compensation for this position will be determined by a number of factors, including the scope, complexity, and location of the role as well as the cost of labor in the market; the skills, education, training, credentials, and experience of the candidate; and other conditions of employment.

Benefits

• Full-time associates have access to benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability as well as 401K contribution match.