JOB DESCRIPTION:
Under technical direction, responsible for underwriting risks in a book of business. Works within specific limits of authority on assignments requiring significant technical complexity and coordination. Utilizes underwriting policies and guidelines, rating manual rules and insurance laws and regulations.
This Underwriting Specialist position is part of the Underwriting Hub-a growing team designed to provide expanded underwriting capabilities for the organization. We will elevate underwriting excellence through streamlined processes, strategic focus, and collaborative growth that enables our field underwriting teams to deepen agent and broker engagement and drive new business growth. If you're ready to stretch your skills and grow your career, we'd love to meet you.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Performs a combination of duties in accordance with departmental guidelines:
1. Reviews applications and financial requirements for risks requiring complex underwriting skills. Determines acceptability of risk in accordance with company guidelines and standards. Also, determines the need for additional evidence of insurability and appropriate strategy.
2. Determines appropriate pricing based on financial and competitive analysis in line with compliance requirements.
3. Prepares quotes and answers questions from agencies, policyholders or other external contacts and escalates issues to management along with proposed solutions as necessary. Negotiates with agents to reach positive and profitable outcomes.
4. Notifies agencies of adverse underwriting decisions, rate appeals, underwriting requirements, status and declinations.
5. Analyzes quality, quantity, and profitability of risks underwritten and prepares reports for management review.
6. Mentors and guides less experienced underwriters and underwriting associates and assists in the development of underwriting training.
7. Keeps current on state/territory issues and regulations, industry activity and trends and freely shares information with others.
8. Utilizes advanced functionality in relevant CNA systems to perform day-to-day activities.
9. Works with more senior underwriters or management on risks exceeding authority level or requiring special handling.
Skills, Knowledge & Abilities
1. Advanced knowledge of underwriting and insurance industry theories and practices.
2. Demonstrated high level of technical expertise and product specific knowledge.
3. Strong interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills. Ability to effectively interact with all levels of CNA's internal and external business partners.
4. Ability to work independently.
5. Strong analytical and problem solving skills.
6. Ability to exercise independent judgment and to make critical business decisions effectively.
7. Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite as well as other business-related software.
8. Demonstrated leadership skills.
9. Proven ability to support and coach underwriting team members, contributing to team development and underwriting quality.
Education & Experience
1. Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. Professional designations preferred.
2. Typically a minimum three to five years underwriting experience.
In certain jurisdictions, CNA is legally required to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. In District of Columbia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York and Washington, the national base pay range for this job level is $72,000 to $141,000 annually. Salary determinations are based on various factors, including but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and location. CNA offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to help our employees - and their family members - achieve their physical, financial, emotional and social wellbeing goals. For a detailed look at CNA's benefits, please visit cnabenefits.com.
