Sr. Specialty Solutions Underwriting Territory Manager

Job Purpose:

The Senior Specialty Solutions Underwriting Territory Manager evaluates and underwrites surety bonds submitted to the specialty solutions department within parameters and guidelines. This position contributes to a profitable surety operation maintains agency relationships and markets company products. The Senior Specialty Solutions Underwriting Territory Manager assumes responsibility for larger and more complex bonding situations and account relationships. Typically is a high production team member generating more profitable bond opportunities. This role provides training and guidance to less experienced underwriters and may be responsible for managing a staff of junior underwriters or a small number of underwriters in a field location.

Job Responsibilities:

Underwriting Analysis & Documentation

• Determines the acceptability of surety risks based on the Merchants guidelines and marketing strategy. Areas of focus include subdivision SBA collateral and funds control. Operates within the authority established by the Senior Vice President Specialty Solutions Underwriting.
• Secures detailed underwriting information on new and existing accounts as well as specific contract bond requests such as full project descriptions contracts and bond forms. Reviews agent submissions/applications and accurately evaluates for future potential and verifies appropriate rates for acceptable risk. Prepares underwriting submissions and presents recommendations to senior staff when requests exceed the Underwriters authority.
• Creates year-end updates on accounts and provides direction to the agent regarding further handling of the account.
• Assures File Notes are current relevant and properly detailed. Assures underwriting information is current properly reviewed and noted and Major Account Reports are up to date. Documents underwriting needs and conditions.

Marketing & Relationship Building

• Maintains positive relationships with existing agencies and major accounts including regular on-site visits thank you notes and follow up documentation. Continues to build premium and business opportunities with key agents and accounts. Solicits feedback regarding service levels and performance.
• Maintains current account and relationship information. Completes meeting summaries in a timely fashion.
• Develop new business opportunities by prospecting for new agency relationships. May be asked to open new territories or establish the foundations for new offices or manage decentralized underwriters.

Education and Experience:

Bachelors degree or equivalent work experience in business underwriting insurance or a related field plus 10 years of experience preferably a combination of progressive bond underwriting customer service and territory management. Ability to underwrite larger sensitive and/or more complex accounts with rating methodologies modeling and valuation tools. AFSB designation helpful.