Zurich Direct Markets BU is seeking an Underwriting Specialist OR Executive Underwriter for our Finance and Insurance (F&I) Underwriting team located in Overland Park, Kansas. Direct Markets specializes in offering F&I products and solutions to the automotive industry. This role has the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule with three in-office days per week (M-W).

This role will be filled at either the Level II or Level III. The hiring manager will determine the appropriate level based upon the selected applicant’s experience and skill set relative to the qualifications listed for this position.

Purpose: Analyze and underwrite new and existing F&I business to support the portfolio’s long-term growth and profitability while delivering excellent service to our customers and the sales organization. As part of our team, you’ll play a key role in supporting Zurich’s financial objectives and reputation for reliability and forward-thinking solutions.

Job Accountabilities:

This role will be filled at either the Underwriter II or Underwriter III level. The hiring manager will determine the appropriate level based upon the selected applicant’s experience and skill sets relative to the qualifications listed for this position.

Key Accountabilities:

• Make sound underwriting decisions within assigned authority, ensuring both profitability and customer retention.
• At an account-level, analyze and underwrite new and existing F&I business, working independently under general direction, within delegated authority levels.
• Qualify accounts to meet the organization's Underwriting appetite
• Calculate target pricing by utilizing underwriting tools and models appropriately
• Understand and analyze risk
• Negotiate pricing and other terms with the sales organization to close the deal
• Service accounts, handle declinations/cancellations
• Review detailed Dealer Product Questionnaire (DPQ) with key Sales personnel for accurate setup, implementation and to identify growth opportunities
• Update and maintain key applications with rating and other pricing variables
• Work with internal teams to ensure accurate and complete onboarding
• Maintain accurate documentation for all underwriting activities.
• Support the organization’s sales culture by serving as a key contact for assigned territory.
• Provide technical advice that enables Sales and customers to solve problems and/or improve business.
• Anticipate customer needs and monitor trends to recommend changes.
• Proactively manage a portfolio of accounts, addressing customer needs and supporting retention.
• Apply rating tools and methodologies to own work area to deliver to customers and offer suggestions for improvements.
• Prepare and review contracts.
• Calculate settlement offers.
• Business Travel, as required
• Extended Hours during peak periods and as required
• Regular Predictable Attendance including in-office on team days (Mon-Wed)

Business Accountabilities:

• Develop and maintain relationships with the Sales organization, collaborating on proposals and general business needs, in support of business acquisition, retention and profitability.
• Data querying and reporting to support internal and customer requests.
• Perform analysis of underwriting profitability and identify trends.
• Lead and facilitate periodic account reviews for assigned territory.
• Contribute to continuous improvement by sharing insights and participating in team initiatives.
• Attend and participate in virtual and in-person sales team meetings with a planned and well-prepared purpose.

Additional Job Functions, as necessary:

• Assess complex customer cases, evaluate their unique needs and apply technical techniques and know-how to recommend a solution.
• Build relationships with customers by handling a range of queries and provide advice with the development of an account to create additional value for the organization and customers.
• Research primary data sources, select relevant information, analyze key themes and trends and make recommendations supporting operational decision making.
• Analyze risk data and market trends to support business growth and sustainability.
• Analyze department needs, develop and recommend alternatives for improvements to processes, customer service or products.
• Monitor and review work undertaken across a number of small to medium scale projects or a large complex project in order to ensure appropriate use of resources and adherence to schedules.
• Provide advisory services to colleagues daily, measuring exposure and analyzing risk in order to provide appropriate coverage that meets the organization's risk and compliance processes.

Performance Management Accountabilities:

• Take action to manage ongoing personal development.
• Model behaviors that demonstrate commitment to corporate values.
• Educate team members and business partners in technical expertise.
• Provide guidance and support for team members.

Basic Qualifications:

Underwriting Specialist: 

• High School Diploma or Equivalent and 3 or more years of experience in the Underwriting or Market Facing area.
  OR
• High School Diploma or Equivalent and 6 or more years of experience in the Claims or Underwriting Support area
  OR
• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice including an Associate Degree and 1 or more years of experience in the Underwriting or Market Facing area
  OR
• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice including an Associate Degree and 4 or more years of experience in the Claims or Underwriting Support area
  AND
• Knowledge of line/s of business and the legal and regulatory guidelines
• Knowledge of time restraints for quotes on new and renewal business
• Experience with Microsoft Office

OR

Executive Underwriter:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent and 5 or more years of experience in the Underwriting or Market Facing area.
  OR
• High School Diploma or Equivalent and 10 or more years of experience in the Claims or Underwriting Support area
  OR
• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice including an Associate Degree and 3 or more years of experience in the Underwriting or Market Facing area
  OR
• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice including an Associate Degree and 8 or more years of experience in the Claims or Underwriting Support area
  AND
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Experience working on time restraints for quotes on new and renewal business
• Experience working in a team environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Master’s Degree
• Professional designations (e.g., CPCU, ARe, or equivalent) are a plus
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills, with a solid grasp of risk assessment
• Sales execution mindset
• Creative problem-solving skills
• Technologically sophisticated
• Experience in data querying and analysis
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Proficiency with underwriting systems and Microsoft Office Suite
• Technical knowledge of Finance and Insurance product offerings and marketing model

At Zurich, compensation for roles is influenced by a variety of factors, including but not limited to the specific office location, role, skill set, and level of experience. In compliance with local laws, Zurich commits to providing a fair and reasonable compensation range for each role. For more information about our Total Rewards, please click here. Additional rewards may encompass short-term incentive bonuses and merit increases. We encourage candidates with salary expectations beyond the provided range to apply as they will be considered based on their experience, skills, and education. 

The combined salary range for this position is $75,000.00 - $165,000.00. The proposed salary range for the Underwriting Specialist is $74,300.00 - $121,700.00, with short-term incentive bonus eligibility set at 10%. For the Executive Underwriter is $98,300.00 - $161,000.00, with short-term incentive bonus eligibility set at 15%.

As an insurance company, Zurich is subject to 18 U.S. Code § 1033.

A future with Zurich. What can go right when you apply at Zurich?

Now is the time to move forward and make a difference. At Zurich, we want you to share your unique perspectives, experiences and ideas so we can grow and drive sustainable change together. As part of a leading global organization, Zurich North America has over 150 years of experience managing risk and supporting resilience. Today, Zurich North America is a leading provider of commercial property-casualty insurance solutions and a wide range of risk management products and services for businesses and individuals. We serve more than 25 industries, from agriculture to technology, and we insure 90% of the Fortune 500®. Our growth strategy is not limited to our business. As an employer, we strive to provide ongoing career development opportunities, and we foster an environment where voices are diverse, behaviors are inclusive, actions drive equity, and our people feel a sense of belonging. Be a part of the next evolution of the insurance industry. Join us in building a brighter future for our colleagues, our customers and the communities we serve. Zurich maintains a comprehensive employee benefits package for employees as well as eligible dependents and competitive compensation. Please click here to learn more.

Zurich in North America is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. 

Zurich does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies. Any unsolicited resume will become the property of Zurich American Insurance. If you are a preferred vendor, please use our Recruiting Agency Portal for resume submission. 

Location(s): AM - Overland Park
Remote Working: Hybrid
Schedule: Full Time
Employment Sponsorship Offered: No  
 
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