Senior Underwriter, Programs - Canada

As a Senior Underwriter, Programs - Canada, you will be a key contributor to the profitability and growth of the Programs underwriting portfolio. You will lead the development, implementation, and ongoing management of Programs and Fronting arrangements, ensuring strong underwriting discipline, portfolio performance, and alignment with AXIS strategic objectives.

This role is responsible for managing the full program lifecycle including due diligence, onboarding, monitoring, optimization, and (if necessary) exit strategies, while fostering strong relationships with Program Managers, MGAs, and delegated underwriting partners

What will you do in this role?

• Support the portfolio management of assigned Programs including financial performance, production, retention, and profitability targets.
• Develop, implement, and manage business plans for Programs aligned with Canadian growth objectives.
• Monitor and analyze program KPIs (renewal rates, pricing, retention, loss trends) and take corrective actions as required.
• Maintain and enforce underwriting guidelines and delegated authority controls across Program Manager partners.
• Evaluate and underwrite referred risks exceeding delegated authority thresholds.
• Lead due diligence, onboarding, and implementation of new Programs, including cross-functional coordination with internal stakeholders.
• Develop and execute strategies to expand AXIS product offerings within existing Programs.
• Manage Program Manager relationships through regular engagement, stewardship meetings, and site visits.
• Lead underwriting audits and ensure compliance with contractual, underwriting, and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor loss activity and partner with Claims and Actuarial teams to adjust pricing, coverage, and strategy.
• Collaborate with Claims, Finance, Actuarial, Reinsurance, Operations, and CUO office to support program performance.
• Manage contractual elements including program agreements, amendments, profit-sharing, and captive structures where applicable.
• Oversee premium and deductible collection processes in coordination with Operations.
• Maintain strong market intelligence and industry knowledge to inform underwriting and strategic decisions.
• Travel as necessary to support Program relationships, due diligence, and industry engagement.
• Collaborate with internal teams to support cross-functional initiatives and growth opportunities.

You may also be required to take on additional duties, responsibilities and activities appropriate to the nature of this role.

Candidate Profile

The Senior Underwriter, Programs will be a hands-on program leader with a proven track record of success within a top-tier commercial insurance carrier, or Delegated Underwriting Authority partner specializing in building and managing insurance programs across various industries and affinities.

Ideal candidates should have experience working with Program Managers, Managing General Agents, or Delegated Underwriting Authority partners to support complex specialty risks.

Candidates must have a strong understanding of program lifecycle management, including initial vetting, onboarding, monitoring, optimization, and, if necessary, exit strategies. Comfort with analyzing data and KPIs is essential. Additionally, candidates should possess executive presence, with demonstrated success in communicating, influencing, and building strong relationships that enhance Axis's business portfolio and contribute to long-term strategic initiatives.

What you need to have:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
• 5 or more years of P&C underwriting experience
• Direct experience managing Programs, MGAs, Delegated Authority, or Fronting arrangements
• Proven experience managing Program financials, including P&L ownership and forecasting
• Strong relationship management and communication skills with internal and external stakeholders
• Ability to analyze data, interpret trends, and make informed underwriting decision

What we prefer you to have:

• Demonstrated success in building and managing Programs portfolios
• Strong broker, MGA, and Program Manager relationships
• Advanced analytical and strategic thinking skills
• Experience leading cross-functional initiatives and influencing stakeholders
• Strong negotiation and contract management capabilities

Role Factors:

In this role, you will typically be required to:

• Travel quarterly
• Be in the office in alignment with company hybrid work expectations

What we offer:

You will be eligible for a comprehensive and competitive benefits package which includes medical plans for you and your family, health and wellness programs, retirement plans, tuition reimbursement, paid annual leave, and much more.

For this position, we currently expect to offer a base salary in the range of $90,000 to $130,000. Your salary offer will be based on an assessment of a variety of factors including your specific experience and work location. In addition, you will be offered competitive target incentive compensation, with awards based on overall corporate and individual performance.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.