Underwriting Specialist (Underwriting Hub)

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Reviews applications and financial requirements for risks requiring complex underwriting skills.
• Determines acceptability of risk in accordance with company guidelines and standards.
• Determines 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 and escalates issues to management along 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.
• Mentors and guides less experienced underwriters and underwriting associates and assists in the development of underwriting training.
• Keeps current on state/territory issues and regulations, industry activity and trends and freely shares information with others.
• Utilizes advanced functionality in relevant CNA systems to perform day-to-day activities.
• Works with more senior underwriters or management on risks exceeding authority level or requiring special handling.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• 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.
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and to make critical business decisions effectively.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite as well as other business-related software.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.
• Prioritizes and supports the coaching of underwriting team members, contributing to team development and underwriting quality.

Education & Experience

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