Strategic Distribution & Growth Lead; Market Strategy & Underwriting

The Opportunity

Are you looking for a caring, collaborative, values-driven workplace with inspiring teammates and leaders? Do you have the ambition and desire to be the best and thrive at the most impactful global insurance provider in the world? Look no further than Zurich Canada.

If you have experience in underwriting complex commercial insurance risks and driving business growth through innovative sales and distribution strategies, we would love to hear from you.

Zurich Canada is currently looking for an AVP in Underwriting on our Accident & Health team in either Vancouver or Toronto. This role will leverage deep underwriting expertise and market insights to expand our business through new and existing broker and customer relationships.

Reporting to the AVP, Accident & Health, you will analyze and underwrite new and renewal business, collaborate with internal teams to deliver tailored solutions, and lead initiatives focused on risk selection, pricing, deal structuring, and strategic growth. You’ll serve as a subject matter expert, working closely with the underwriting team while supporting client engagement and driving market expansion.

This is a unique opportunity to build your knowledge and experience for the future in a supportive environment where your voice matters. This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Zurich Canada uses artificial intelligence‑enabled tools to support certain aspects of the recruitment process, including the initial review and screening of applications. 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.

• Underwrite and analyze highly complex new and renewal business independently within delegated authority levels.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with brokers, agents, and customers to drive business retention and acquisition.
• Participate in sales team meetings and represent Zurich at industry events as needed.
• Conduct market and competitor research to understand industry trends and emerging risks, informing our go‑to‑market strategy.
• Lead the development and implementation of client engagement plans, focusing on retention, cross‑selling, and new business opportunities.
• Analyze existing client portfolios, claims data, and product performance to identify growth opportunities while balancing risk appetite and underwriting guidelines.
• Document broker/client visits and account status in required systems within established time frames.
• Actively participate in risk selection, pricing, and deal structuring discussions to ensure profitable growth and sustainability.
• Participate in underwriting and analyzing new and renewal business independently within delegated authority levels.
• Contribute to a collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Analyze existing client portfolios, claims data, and product performance to identify growth opportunities and enhance customer value.
• Collaborate closely with underwriting, claims, and product teams to deliver tailored, innovative solutions and outstanding client service.
• Establish clear, measurable action plans for revenue growth, client engagement, and strategic initiatives.
• Support the Underwriting team and manage underwriting submissions and annual reviews.
• Support claims teams with coverage expertise and issue resolution.
• Business travel and extended hours during peak periods, as required.
• Maintain a valid driver’s license.

• High School Diploma or equivalent and 7 or more years of experience in Underwriting or Market Facing roles.

OR

• High School Diploma or equivalent and 14 or more years of experience in Claims or Underwriting Support.

OR

• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice with an Associate Degree and 5 or more years of underwriting experience.

OR

• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice with an Associate Degree and 12 or more years of claims or underwriting support experience.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office.
• Experie…