Role responsibilities
Underwrite complex insurance risks within granted level of authorities by identifying and analyzing risk exposures, loss frequency and severity against desired coverage
Ensure submissions meet underwriting standards for the program and are profitable
Curate a portfolio of business in accordance with Underwriting Guidelines and prescribed pricing tools, but has more discretion in curating the portfolio than an underwriter
Identify changes in account/ market risk exposures and loss trends to maximize profitability
Work with Manager to define and execute team production goals
Review referrals from Underwriters and Associate Underwriters
Provides technical guidance, coaching, and mentoring to others on the team and within the company; may formally manage 1-2 direct reports but is not required
Execute on annual new and renewal business goals by achieving agreed premium income and hitting quote numbers with desired hit ratios and retentions
Foster relationships with key producers by traveling to connect and attend events/meetings as needed
Gather and compile information required to quote and/or bind an account
Demonstrate advanced understanding of technical underwriting principles and risk underwriting characteristics in their line of business which could include key components of risk factors and how these progress over time, understanding basic exclusions and understanding more nuanced risks as well; may begin expanding knowledge of other lines of business as well
Assist on specialty projects such as testing rating models and new systems
Keep up to date on market dynamics, competitive landscape, and product differences - communicate market intelligence to the broader group
Negotiate with producers within the limits of delegated authority and in accordance with established underwriting standards to achieve profit objectives
Underwriting Authority: Has Underwriting authority as outlined in LOA
Key requirements
Bachelor’s degree in risk management, finance, business, or a related field preferred
Professional certifications such as CPCU, AU, or similar designations preferred
5–8 years of relevant underwriting experience
In-depth understanding of technical underwriting principles and risk assessment
Strong analytical, negotiation, and decision-making skills
Proven ability to manage and build broker and client relationships
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
Demonstrated ability to handle complex risks with sound judgment
Highly self-motivated with strong attention to detail
Ability to travel 10–25% as required for client meetings, conferences, or industry events
Must be able to remain in a stationary position approximately 50% of the time, with occasional movement throughout the office to access files and equipment
If you do not meet all the qualifications for this role, we still encourage you to apply
What do we offer in return?
A career that you define. At Howden, we value diversity – there is no one Howden type. Instead, we’re looking for individuals who share the same values as us:
Our successes have all come from someone brave enough to try something new
We support each other in the small everyday moments and the bigger challenges
We are determined to make a positive difference at work and beyond
Reasonable adjustments
We're committed to providing reasonable accommodations at Howden to ensure that our positions align well with your needs. Besides the usual adjustments such as software, IT, and office setups, we can also accommodate other changes such as flexible hours* or hybrid working*.
If you're excited by this role but have some doubts about whether it’s the right fit for you, send us your application – if your profile fits the role’s criteria, we will be in touch to assist in helping to get you set up with any reasonable adjustments you may require.
Not all positions can accommodate changes to working hours or locations. Reach out to your Recruitment Partner if you want to know more.
Permanent
