This is a hybrid position requiring 3 days in office at our Hartford, CT office location. #LI-HybridCapSpecialty is seeking a Lead Underwriting Operations Specialist who will serve as a senior member of the Operations team, providing subject matter expertise, operational leadership, and workflow coordination to support underwriting business objectives. This role acts as a resource to team members, assists with training and process improvement initiatives, and helps ensure the quality, consistency, and timeliness of operational services provided to underwriting teams.
While this position may coordinate work assignments, assist with onboarding and training, and monitor the performance of third-party vendors or consultants, it does not have direct supervisory responsibility for employees.
Duties/Responsibilities:- Serve as a senior resource and subject matter expert for Operations processes, systems, and procedures. Provide day-to-day guidance and support to Operations team members. Assist in coordinating workflow across the team to ensure service standards and deadlines are met. Identify operational challenges and recommend practical solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Escalate operational concerns, capacity issues, and service interruptions to management as appropriate.
- Monitor work quality and consistency to help maintain established service standards. Conduct quality reviews and provide constructive feedback regarding process adherence and accuracy. Assist with the development, documentation, implementation, and maintenance of operational procedures and best practices. Participate in projects designed to improve workflows, technology utilization, and customer service. Recommend process enhancements that improve productivity, accuracy, and the overall customer experience.
- Assist with onboarding and training of new team members. Provide coaching and guidance regarding processes, systems, and workflow best practices. Support cross-training efforts to improve departmental flexibility and business continuity. Serve as a resource for resolving complex operational questions and issues.
- Coordinate and monitor work performed by external consultants, temporary staff, or outsourced service providers. Review vendor deliverables for quality, timeliness, and compliance with established service expectations. Communicate operational requirements and provide guidance to third-party resources as needed. Escalate performance concerns or service issues to management.
- Perform advanced underwriting support activities, including policy processing, endorsements, renewals, audits, and related administrative functions. Manage complex or high-priority transactions requiring advanced knowledge and judgment. Maintain accurate records and documentation in accordance with company procedures and regulatory requirements. Collaborate with underwriters, operations staff, and other business partners to deliver exceptional service.
- Represent the department by actively participating in corporate meetings, providing necessary information, and participating in decision-making to support execution of projects and other organizational changes. Work collaboratively with other areas of the organization to support and initiate change in furtherance of ongoing process improvement initiatives.
Supervisory Responsibilities:Although this position is not a people manager, the Lead Underwriting Operations Specialist is expected to: demonstrate leadership through expertise, collaboration, and accountability; serve as a role model for professionalism, service excellence, and teamwork; foster knowledge sharing and continuous improvement; support departmental goals and strategic initiatives; and positively influence team performance through guidance, training, and operational leadership.
Core Competencies:- Advanced knowledge of commercial casualty insurance and personal computer and software programs.
- Ability to work in a high-pace work environment and independently deliver expected results.
- Ability to shape and lead a team to exceed service expectations.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential.
- Demonstration of a high level of initiative and problem-solving skills are required.
Education and Experience:- Associate's Degree, or equivalent.
- 3+ years of previous insurance underwriting experience or training.
- 5+ years of progressively responsible underwriting operations, insurance operations, or related experience.
- Demonstrated expertise in underwriting support processes and insurance operations.
- Prior experience serving as a mentor, trainer, project lead, or workflow coordinator preferred.
- Experience coordinating third-party vendors, consultants, or outsourced resources is a plus.
Physical Demands:- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- May be required to lift up to 15 lbs. at times.
Apply today!