Underwriting Manager jobs in Chicago, IL

The Role 

As Program Underwriting Manager, you’ll lead the Canopius Program team and manage the profitable growth of our US P&C portfolio written via MGA partnerships.  This portfolio, written on a surplus-lines basis, currently includes Transportation (primarily first-party physical damage and motor-truck cargo), Cannabis P&C, homeowners, and other commercial package risks. In partnership with Canopius leadership, you’ll develop and implement the strategic roadmap and business plan for the segment.  You’ll drive execution through management of external relationships and underwriting activities, including establishing program terms and conditions, monitoring results, and taking corrective action where needed.  You’ll lead efforts to develop new business opportunities in the market, working with external and internal stakeholders to design viable and sustainable program solutions.  You’ll attract, retain, and develop top talent to ensure long-term success of the program business.

Responsibilities will include:

Underwriting   

• Formulate a robust and cohesive long-term strategy for the program business within the Canopius USA framework
• Implement and proactively manage the approved business plan to ensure financial targets are met and performance against the business plan is achieved
• Manage internal underwriting activities, operational metrics/KPI’s, and book performance 
• Ensure sound underwriting decisions in context of evolving market, legal landscape, and broader macroeconomic environment 
• Report to leadership team on portfolio performance, market trends, and relevant issues related to lines and segment 
• Delegate and ensure adherence to underwriting authority, both internally and externally
• Manage effective auditing of underwriting execution and compliance, taking corrective action where necessary 

Marketing    

• Develop and manage marketing plan for segment, act as lead liaison to market
• Coach and manage team’s efforts to develop and manage MGA relationships 
• Solicit and qualify new program opportunities against long-term strategy and Canopius capabilities
• Manage marketing, travel, and entertainment budget of programs team
• Maintain industry visibility to ensure line of sight into competitors, talent, and developments in market 

Essential Skills & Experience 

• 10 years production underwriting experience with a proven track record in the delegated authority program segment
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to train, mentor, and oversee underwriting team
• Understanding of US legal environment and insurance regulatory requirements
• Sound knowledge of the US insurance market, trends, and emerging issues
• The ability to independently prioritize tasks and meet tight deadlines
• Familiarity with financial statements and management reporting systems 
• Strong analytical skills, enabling insight through data and regular reporting of operations, book performance, and leading indicators
• Strong communication skills, oral and written
• Willingness to travel as necessary

About Canopius

Canopius is a global specialty lines (re)insurer. We are one of the leading insurers in the Lloyd’s of London insurance market with offices in the UK, US, Singapore, Australia and Bermuda. 

At Canopius we foster a distinctive, positive culture which enables us to bring our whole selves to work to flourish as people, and build a business which delivers profitable, sustainable results. 

Canopius operates a flexible, hybrid working model and is committed to providing an environment that challenges employees to be their best and where everyone's unique contributions are recognised, valued and respected.  

We offer all employees a comprehensive benefits package that focuses on their whole wellbeing. Canopius’ market-leading proposition offers financial, physical, social and psychological health and wellbeing benefits to ensure we create a working experience which gives everyone the freedom to do their best work.

We are fully committed to equal employment opportunities for all applicants and providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions are made regardless of age, sex, gender identity, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, religion or beliefs, marital or caring status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.  We encourage and welcome applicants from all diverse backgrounds. 

We make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during employment. Please let us know if you require any information in an alternate format or any other reasonable adjustments.