Commercial Underwriter

The Opportunity

Nova Mutual Insurance is seeking a Commercial Lines Underwriter to underwrite, price, and service a medium‑sized commercial portfolio in line with our underwriting standards and reinsurance guidelines. This role supports profitable growth, strong retention, and exceptional service for broker partners and members in a fast‑paced environment.

In this role, you will underwrite new business, renewals, and endorsements; assess risk; and make underwriting decisions within assigned authority. You will work closely with the Specialty Lines Team, internal partners, and broker relationships to support sound decision‑making and a positive service experience.

• Manage a medium‑sized commercial lines portfolio by applying Nova Mutual underwriting standards and guidelines.
• Review broker and agent submissions to assess acceptability, coverage structure, and pricing.
• Prepare accurate quotations and document underwriting decisions clearly and on time.
• Process new business, renewals, and endorsements within defined authority and protocols.
• Build and maintain strong broker and agent relationships through responsive communication and regular check‑ins.
• Collaborate with the Specialty Lines Team, senior underwriters, claims, loss prevention, and operations on complex files and process improvements.
• Refer risks outside of authority or appetite to senior team members for review.
• Support implementation of inspection recommendations and loss prevention actions.
• Continue building technical knowledge through coaching, mentoring, and professional development.

• College diploma, university degree or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in commercial underwriting in SME and program business
• Enrollment in or completion of CIP
• Working knowledge of commercial lines products, policy wordings, and underwriting principles.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain underwriting decisions clearly.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• A commitment to ongoing learning and professional development; industry designations are an asset.
• Familiarity with mutual insurance or experience in a community‑based insurer is an asset.

• A supportive, inclusive, and mission‑driven culture
• Competitive compensation and benefits package
• Professional development opportunities and support for designations
• The chance to shape the future of underwriting in a growing mutual
• A workplace that values people, innovation, and community impact

This posting pertains to an existing vacancy that is actively being filled.

Nova Mutual is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with disabilities requiring accommodation in the application process are to please reach out to us at