Senior Underwriter, SME Waterloo

Opportunity

Zurich is growing in the SME business! If you have strong underwriting experience with SME business and are looking for a new challenge, we would love to hear from you. Zurich Canada is currently looking for a Senior Underwriter, SME, to join our Kitchener/Waterloo office and drive the underwriting of new and renewal SME business. Reporting to the SVP SME & Personal Lines you will utilize The Zurich Way of Underwriting Framework within delegated authority levels on assignments of higher technical complexity, ensuring a high level of service to customers.

This is a unique opportunity to build your knowledge and experience for the future in a supportive environment where your voice matters. Zurich Canada uses artificial intelligence–enabled tools to support certain aspects of the recruitment process. 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.

• Champion Zurich’s SME value proposition by delivering tailored, end‑to‑end insurance solutions that meet customer risk needs and enhance their experience.
• Build and maintain strong broker relationships within target industries, supporting SME growth strategies.
• Conduct purposeful broker visits to promote products, expand market penetration, and identify new business opportunities.
• Proactively generate new and renewal business through local engagement, contributing to portfolio growth and profitability.
• Assess risks and exposures with discipline, leveraging analytical tools and pricing methodologies to qualify accounts and set appropriate coverage.
• Ensure alignment with business strategy, underwriting guidelines, compliance requirements, and delegated authorities.
• Apply rating tools and provide actionable feedback to enhance customer offerings and improve underwriting processes.
• Utilize risk insights and data analytics for informed decision‑making at point of sale.
• Cross‑sell Zurich products to offer comprehensive solutions and increase product density within accounts.
• Identify market trends and customer needs, collaborating on product solutions for SME.
• Demonstrate effective portfolio management through analysis of performance metrics, aiming for diversified and sustainable growth.
• Partner closely with Underwriting Assistants and the broader team to deliver timely, accurate, and industry‑leading customer service.
• Invest in continuous learning and skill development to become a trusted advisor for brokers and SME clients.

Required:

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

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Minimum 4 years’ underwriting experience in SME business

We are committed to pay equity. The salary range for this position is $80,000 – $130,000.

• At Zurich, we are proud of our culture. We are passionate about Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging (DIEB). We want you to bring your whole self to work, and we want our employees to be reflective of the communities in which we live and work. Our DIEB initiatives are creating an environment where everyone feels welcome.
• We have a collaborative culture where diversity of thought is valued. We value your input and strive to give our employees the tools they need to make an impact.
• We care…