Senior Business Development Underwriter - NorCal
PURPOSE OF THE JOB
The purpose of this role is to develop, manage, and grow a profitable book of business within assigned line(s) of business, while serving as a senior-level underwriting and distribution partner to agents and internal stakeholders.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Underwrite, select, and price moderately complex to complex risks within assigned line(s) of business in accordance with Company guidelines
Maintain accountability for the profitability, growth, and retention of assigned portfolio
Evaluate detailed risk characteristics including operations, financials, management, and loss history
Exercise advanced underwriting judgment and authority to structure, price, and manage complex accounts
Utilize underwriting authority to apply appropriate pricing, credits/debits, deductibles, and alternative rating structures
Quote and explain complex pricing structures (e.g., retros, deductibles, large account programs) where applicable
Monitor portfolio performance and take proactive corrective action to achieve underwriting targets
Remain current on regulatory, rating, and coverage changes (e.g., WCIRB/NCCI, ISO/AAIS)
Drive new business production and achieve growth objectives through proactive agency engagement, prospecting, and cross-sell execution
Develop, manage, and optimize a high-performing producer force aligned with Company strategy
Hold producers accountable for production, quality, and profitability expectations
Drive profitable sales across all Commercial Lines products, including increasing penetration of existing products and supporting new product introductions
Actively identify and lead cross-sell opportunities, partnering across underwriting teams to deliver total account solutions
Prospect, prequalify, and appoint new producers with strong alignment to target business segments
Set and manage production goals and performance expectations with key agency partners
Maintain deep knowledge of assigned territory, including competitor positioning and market dynamics
Influence and provide input on distribution strategy, product positioning, and market opportunities
Serve as a lead Company representative with key and strategic agency partners
Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships through regular agency engagement, presentations, and strategic planning
Lead complex account and pricing discussions with agents and insureds
Provide underwriting and distribution guidance to agents, including structuring solutions for more complex risks
Deliver high levels of responsiveness, service, and professionalism in all interactions
Present agency performance insights, growth opportunities, and strategic recommendations to internal leadership and agency partners
Participate in training, onboarding, and knowledge sharing across the team
Contribute to special projects, product initiatives, and process improvements as assigned
Supervisory Responsibilities
This role does not have direct reports but is expected to mentor, influence, and provide guidance to junior team members.
Education And Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Risk Management, or related field, or equivalent experience
Minimum 5 years underwriting experience required; 7+ years preferred, with demonstrated experience handling more complex risks and agency relationships
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Current driver’s license required
Knowledge And Skills
Demonstrated success in building and managing high-value agency relationships and driving profitable growth
Proven ability to underwrite complex risks and apply advanced underwriting judgment
Strong business development, negotiation, and relationship management skills
Ability to balance advanced underwriting discipline within assigned line(s) of business with production and cross-sell expectations across Commercial Lines
Advanced knowledge of Commercial Lines products, including Workers’ Compensation and/or Commercial Package and its component coverages
Ability to mentor, coach, and influence others
Strong analytical, communication, and presentation skills