Executive Underwriter - Commercial Surety

Executive Underwriter – Commercial Surety

Zurich North America is seeking an Executive Underwriter or AVP, Underwriting Director to join our Commercial Surety team. The role is located in the North Central region with options in Chicago, Schaumburg, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, or Indiana. The position is full‑time, remote‑working is available, and employment sponsorship is not offered.

The Commercial Surety Underwriter is a highly technical role focused on the management, development, and analysis of a complex book of Commercial Surety accounts. The ideal candidate will bring a strong financial background, credit analysis expertise, excellent communication and presentation skills, and a can‑do, entrepreneurial spirit.

• Proactively seek renewal and new account opportunities.
• Qualify accounts to meet the organization’s appetite and negotiate terms & conditions to close deals.
• Cross‑sell other lines of business to increase product density within accounts.
• Update required systems with details of broker/client visits and account status within specified time frames.
• Calculate target price accurately using underwriting tools.
• Diagnose and develop recommendations to solve unique business unit and customer problems.
• Demonstrate specialized knowledge and expertise in products and industry.
• Administer and monitor underwriting rules and guidelines, insurance laws, regulations, and rating manuals.
• Work at the highest authority limits on assignments utilizing the highest degree of technical complexity and coordination.

• High School Diploma or Equivalent and 5+ years of experience in Underwriting, Market Facing, Finance, Accounting, or Banking OR 10+ years in Claims or Underwriting Support.
• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice with an Associate Degree and 3+ years in Underwriting, Market Facing, Finance, Accounting, or Banking OR 8+ years in Claims or Underwriting Support AND knowledge of Microsoft Office and time restraints for quotes on new and renewal business.
• Experience working in a team environment.

• High School Diploma or Equivalent and 7+ years in Underwriting, Market Facing, Finance, Accounting, or Banking OR 14+ years in Claims or Underwriting Support.
• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice with an Associate Degree and 5+ years in Underwriting, Market Facing, Finance, Accounting, or Banking OR 12+ years in Claims or Underwriting Support AND experience with Microsoft Office.

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Surety knowledge and understanding of legal and regulatory guidelines.
• Understanding of broker relationship structure.
• Ability to analyze and understand complicated credit assessments, trends, and strategies.
• Investigative skills to develop an understanding of business strategies and complex contracts.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Prior experience managing and growing profitable customer portfolios and negotiating with brokers and large organizations.

The combined salary range for this position is $98,500.00 – $. The AVP level range is $98,500.00 – $ with a 15% short‑term incentive bonus. The VP level range is $ – $ with a 20% short‑term incentive bonus.

Zurich 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.