Underwriter - Underwriting Specialist - Life Sciences

Underwriter – Underwriting Specialist Job Summary Under minimal supervision, this role evaluates and underwrites complex risks while identifying opportunities to expand the division’s book of business. The role actively manages broker relationships to deliver exceptional service and drive new business production and renewal retention. Duties and Responsibilities Continuously exhibit and uphold Core Values of Integrity, Accountability, Communication and Teamwork, Innovation and Customer Service Review and analyze a range of underwriting submissions, from routine to highly complex, to determine coverage, rates, terms, and pricing within delegated authority May handle referrals and approvals from Underwriters and Associate Underwriters, if within delegated authority Assess and verify applicant information, evaluate loss history and risk factors, determine appropriate classifications, and develop sound underwriting and renewal strategies May work with actuarial by referring loss ratings Develop, prepare, and manage new business and renewal files to ensure risks meet underwriting requirements Evaluate renewal applications and prior-year files and assist in preparing renewal accounts for quoting Negotiate terms, conditions, and pricing using critical thinking and problem solving skills Prepare accurate documentation, summaries, and reports while maintaining complete, compliant, and well organized underwriting files Build, develop and nurture strong relationships with new and existing broker partners to support growth and profitability goals of the division and segment Provide timely, transparent communication to brokers, including appetite guidance, declinations with alternatives, and cross sell opportunities May monitor assigned brokers for production and profitability Support division and segment marketing plans while achieving assigned quote, premium, and profitability goals Travel within assigned territory to meet with brokers, reinforce relationships, and identify business opportunities Apply product knowledge to ensure risks align with underwriting appetite and guidelines Utilize underwriting tools and systems to support accurate evaluation, pricing, and documentation Ensure policy files and transactions meet internal standards and compliance requirements Maintain an understanding of market conditions, competitive activity, and industry trends specific to the assigned product line within the E&S marketplace Assist in training Associate Underwriters and Underwriters Perform other duties as assigned Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Advanced knowledge of general insurance operations including underwriting philosophy and techniques Intermediate to advanced knowledge of loss rating Proficiency in business systems including Guidewire Curiosity and interest in the application of emerging AI tools including Kalepa Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams) Proficient in digital research using web based search tools and databases Strong analytical, problem solving, and decision making skills, especially under time pressure Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including presentation skills Strong relationship building skills and commitment to delivering outstanding customer service Effective negotiation skills Ability to effectively recognize and assess risk Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment Ability to collaborate effectively across all organizational levels Ability to accept feedback professionally and adapt to change Ability to mentor and train others Ability to travel Strong initiative, sense of urgency, and entrepreneurial mindset Exceptional accuracy, thoroughness, and attention to detail Self-starter who works well independently and in a team environment Commitment to continuous learning Experience and Education Underwriter Bachelor’s Degree required; or equivalent combination of education, training, or relevant experience, typically defined as: An associate degree plus a minimum of two years of experience in a professional setting; or, High school diploma or equivalent plus a minimum of three years of experience in a professional setting Minimum of two years of relevant underwriting experience (underwriting assistant, underwriter) required, experience in Excess & Surplus lines preferred Insurance-industry or underwriting professional designations or continuing education preferred   Senior Underwriter Bachelor’s Degree required; or equivalent combination of education, training, or relevant experience, typically defined as: An associate degree plus a minimum of two years of experience in a professional setting; or, High school diploma or equivalent plus a minimum of three years of experience in a professional setting minimum of four years of commercial E&S casualty and/or property underwriting experience required Insurance-industry or underwriting professional designations or continuing education preferred Underwriting Specialist Bachelor’s Degree required; or equivalent combination of education, training, or relevant experience, typically defined as: An associate degree plus a minimum of two years of experience in a professional setting; or, High school diploma or equivalent plus a minimum of three years of experience in a professional setting Minimum of seven years of commercial E&S casualty and/or property underwriting experience required Insurance-industry or underwriting professional designations or continuing education preferred This position may be filled at different job levels depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, skills, and experience.   This position may be filled at different job levels depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, skills, and experience.     Underwriter: The salary range for this position is $63,200 - $91,700 annually.  Senior Underwriter: The salary range for this position is $76,400 - $110,800 annually.  Underwriting Specialist: The salary range for this position is $87,900 - $131,800 annually.    This position is eligible to participate in James River's annual short-term incentive bonus program.  Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors, including relevant experience, qualifications, job-related skills, education, professional certifications, internal equity, market considerations and other business-related factors.  #LI-KS1 #LI-Remote