Senior Contract Underwriter

Job Purpose

The Senior Contract Underwriter manages complex accounts, drives high-quality underwriting decisions, and strengthens agency relationships. This role requires sound judgment, strategic influence, and the ability to present both risk and opportunity clearly. Associates are expected to mitigate objections, support team development, and represent the company with confidence and professionalism.

Core Work Responsibilities

Strategic Underwriting & Risk Evaluation (60%)

• Evaluates complex contract surety submissions and makes informed decisions within underwriting authority, using sound judgment while regularly collaborating with peers to strengthen decision quality.
• Analyzes contractor financials, project schedules, and broader market conditions to assess risk.
• Prepares and presents underwriting recommendations, providing a clear rationale and proposed path forward.

Agency Leadership & Relationship Growth (30%)

• Leads relationship strategy for assigned agencies.
• Conducts onsite visits, presentations, and strategic planning meetings with producers and key agency personnel.
• Develops new agency relationships through prospecting, referral, and industry engagement.
• Gathers and communicates market insights, shaping underwriting approach at the territory or regional level.

Team Development & Strategic Contribution (10%)

• Mentors and provides informal guidance to other underwriters on case analysis and relationship handling.
• Collaborates with managers and peers to refine underwriting practices and solve challenges.
• Participates in cross-functional projects, pilots, and initiatives that support innovation and operational improvement.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred. Backgrounds in business, finance, accounting, economics, or related disciplines are highly relevant.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in surety underwriting or a related financial/risk evaluation role.
• Proven ability to underwrite complex accounts, manage agent relationships, and apply judgment under ambiguity.

Competencies:

• Initiative - Drives strategic outcomes by identifying opportunities and leading solutions that align with long-term goals.
• Strategic Underwriting - Possesses strong judgment in high-complexity cases; demonstrates leadership in analytical decisions.
• Situational Adaptability - Communicates with agility across diverse audiences and adjusts based on dynamic market needs.
• Mentoring - Actively supports the development of others through informal coaching and example-setting.
• Project Management - Leads or contributes to complex projects that improve team processes or operational outcomes.
• Professionalism - Demonstrates integrity, confidentiality, and a consistent commitment to excellence in all professional interactions.
• Technically proficient in underwriting tools, financial software, CRM platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite.

Essential Functions

• The associate must be able to analyze and evaluate complex financial information, make strategic underwriting decisions, communicate clearly with agents and colleagues, represent the company externally, travel for agency meetings and events (15-20% annually), and manage shifting priorities with accuracy and professionalism.