Underwriter Specialist, Small Business

About the role

Under technical direction, you will underwrite risks in a book of business, working within specific limits of authority on assignments requiring significant technical complexity and coordination. You will utilize underwriting policies, guidelines, rating manual rules, and insurance laws and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Reviews applications and financial requirements for risks requiring complex underwriting skills.
• Determines acceptability of risk in accordance with company guidelines and standards, including the need for additional evidence of insurability and appropriate strategy.
• Determines appropriate pricing based on financial and competitive analysis in line with compliance requirements.
• Prepares quotes and answers questions from agencies, policyholders, or other external contacts; escalates issues to management with proposed solutions as necessary.
• Negotiates with agents to reach positive and profitable outcomes.
• Notifies agencies of adverse underwriting decisions, rate appeals, underwriting requirements, status, and declinations.
• Analyzes quality, quantity, and profitability of risks underwritten and prepares reports for management review.
• Markets products and services through agencies or the brokerage community and makes field visits.
• Develops and maintains agency and/or broker relationships.
• Provides guidance and assistance to other underwriters and functional areas, particularly for cross-sell opportunities.
• Stays current on state/territory issues and regulations, industry activity, and trends; shares information with others.
• Utilizes advanced functionality in relevant CNA systems to perform day-to-day activities.
• Works with senior underwriters or management on risks exceeding authority level or requiring special handling.

Requirements

• 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.
• Ability to work independently and exercise independent judgment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other business-related software.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Professional designations preferred.
• Typically a minimum of three to five years of underwriting experience.

Pay

In District of Columbia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, and Washington, the national base pay range for this job level is $54,000 to $103,000 annually. Salary determinations are based on relevant work experience, skills, certifications, and location.

Benefits

CNA offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to help employees—and their family members—achieve their physical, financial, emotional, and social well-being goals. For a detailed look at CNA’s benefits, visit cnabenefits.com.