VP, Senior Underwriting Manager - Programs

Join to apply for the VP, Senior Underwriting Manager – Programs role at Zurich North America
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Zurich North America is seeking a Vice President, Programs to lead underwriting and operational initiatives, build trusted relationships, and shape the strategic direction of our dynamic Programs Business unit. This influential role will drive client partnerships, inspire the team, and support Zurich’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer success.

Reporting directly to the Head of Programs, this position is location‑flexible and can be based at any of our Zurich offices. Some business travel may be required.

• Partner with the Programs leadership team to define and execute a multi‑year strategy and business goals while identifying new growth opportunities with key distributors.
• Develop tactical plans to achieve profitable growth across a diverse portfolio, and drive results.
• Lead initiatives, champion key operational actions, and cultivate a customer‑focused, results‑driven underwriting culture.
• Translate market insights into actionable objectives, and mentor staff to develop strong program administrator and client networks.
• Build trusted partnerships with Program Administrators, agents, brokers, and customers, serving as a solutions provider.
• Administer underwriting rules, insurance laws, and rating guidelines, and review and act on agency performance and trends.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and standards to deliver profitable outcomes.

• Bachelor’s degree and 10+ years of experience in Underwriting, Market‑Facing, Broker, Carrier or Risk Management within the Commercial Insurance industry.
• OR Bachelor’s degree with 20+ years of experience in Claims or Underwriting Support within the Commercial Insurance industry.
• Experience in the Programs line of business or segment.
• At least 2 years of people management experience.

• Advanced knowledge and practice of lines of business.
• Strategic planning and execution experience.
• Strong team building and organization skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Experience managing complex portfolios.
• Technical knowledge of insurance industry operations and processes.
• Knowledge of risk selection and strategical components of anticipating the market environment.
• CPCU.

The compensation indicated represents a nationwide market range and has not been adjusted for geographic differentials. The proposed salary range for this position is $197,800 – $304,000, with short‑term incentive bonus eligibility set at 25%. You may also be eligible for bonuses and merit increases. Standard equity‑like benefits include comprehensive benefits for employees and their families.

Location:

AM – Schaumburg, AM – Illinois Virtual Office, AM – New Jersey Virtual Office, AM – Texas Virtual Office, AM – Washington St Virt. Office. Remote Working:
Hybrid,

Schedule:

Full Time, Employment Sponsorship Offered:
No.

Zurich enforces a diverse, inclusive, and safe workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We comply with 18 U.S. Code § 1033 and adhere to relevant EEO standards.

Please note:

Zurich does not accept unsolicited CVs from agencies. Preferred vendors should use our Recruiting Agency Portal.