Underwriting Specialist, Middle Market - Western Region

Zurich Canada is currently looking for an Underwriting Specialist, Middle Market - Western Region in our Vancouver office to lead the underwriting and management of complex accounts, drive business growth, and deliver exceptional customer service.

Reporting to the VP, Middle Market, Western Region, you will analyze and underwrite new and renewal business, proactively engage with brokers and agents, assess risk, negotiate terms, and serve as a key contact for target accounts. You will also support cross-selling, contribute to product development, and provide coaching to colleagues. This role offers the opportunity to work with industry leaders in a highly collaborative environment, actively shaping the future of commercial insurance.

This is a unique opportunity to build your knowledge and experience for the future in a supportive environment where your voice matters. This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Zurich Canada uses artificial intelligence-enabled tools to support certain aspects of the recruitment process, including the initial review and screening of applications. Artificial intelligence is not the sole basis for candidate shortlisting or selection. All hiring decisions are reviewed and made by qualified hiring professionals.

Zurich follows a hybrid work model requiring three days per week of in-person presence, which may include time in the office or market-facing engagements.

What you will do

• Analyze and underwrite new and renewal business for highly complex accounts within delegated authority.
• Proactively seek renewal and new account opportunities, building relationships with brokers, agents, and clients.
• Complete detailed opportunity assessments with distributors to identify growth areas.
• Qualify accounts to meet the organization's appetite and sound business opportunity.
• Negotiate terms and conditions, close deals, and cross-sell other lines of business to increase product density.
• Participate in sales team meetings and maintain visibility in the office and market.
• Accurately measure exposure, assess risk, and calculate target prices using underwriting tools.
• Support product development, contribute to underwriting manuals, and provide guidance on coverage issues.
• Lead marketing presentations and promote Zurich's products and services.
• Manage and monitor multiple projects, ensuring appropriate use of resources and adherence to schedules.
• Provide advisory services and technical expertise to colleagues and senior management.
• Build strong client relationships, handle complex queries, and deliver solutions.
• Lead and implement long-term business projects and technical solutions to meet customer needs.
• Coach and support team members, promoting Zurich's values and contributing to performance management.

Job Qualifications - What you bring to the table

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent and 5+ years of underwriting or market-facing experience in the property & casualty insurance sector

OR

• High school diploma or equivalent and 10+ years of experience in claims or underwriting support

OR

• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice and Associate Degree with 3+ years of underwriting or market-facing experience

OR

• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice and Associate Degree with 8+ years of claims or underwriting support experience

AND

• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong negotiation, relationship building, and presentation skills
• In-depth knowledge of underwriting philosophy, risk analysis, and relevant regulations
• Ability to function effectively in a team environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Experience working under time constraints for quotes on new and renewal business
• Valid driver's license; ability to travel as required

Preferred:

• Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field
• Advanced knowledge of processing methods and insurance regulations for assigned territories
• Demonstrated experience with consulting, business development, and technical project leadership

At Zurich Canada, we are committed to pay equity. We determine compensation based on objective criteria such as skills, experience, and internal equity. The salary range for this position is $110,000 - $140,000. This range reflects the expected pay for the role across Canada and may vary depending on factors like office location, specific responsibilities, and individual qualifications. As required by local law, Zurich provides in good faith a reasonable compensation range, but starting salaries may exceed this range based on a candidate's skills and experience.

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