"Since 1886 - Strong, Local and Trusted."

Rated Best Places to Work 2020, 2022, and 2024 by Business Insurance, Continental Western Group is a regional property casualty insurance company offering commercial products and services through independent agents in the Midwest. CWG provides unique value through the service provided by our experienced group of employees and independent agents. Since 1886 - Strong, Local and Trusted.

As a Berkley company, we enjoy operational flexibility that allows us to deliver quality coverage solutions. W. R. Berkley Corporation, and all member insurance companies, are rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company, and carry Standard and Poor's Financial Rating of A+ (Strong).

The Company is an equal employment opportunity employer.

Located in our Urbandale, Iowa office, the Commercial Underwriting Manager is responsible for managing an assigned commercial underwriting function and staff, driving profitable underwriting results and managed growth through effective leadership, development, and engagement.

This role will: 

• Assist in the development and implementation of macro (regional and enterprise) and micro (state, city, rural area, agent level) strategies for long-term success in construction, manufacturing, distribution across middle market, and/or small commercial property and casualty.
  • Manage an assigned commercial underwriting function and staff through delegation of underwriting authority, ensuring adherence to the Letter of Authority and other underwriting standards and guidelines.
  • Monitor risk acceptability, pricing adequacy, and classification accuracy of accounts to ensure profitability and managed growth of the business; consult with underwriters and Home Office Underwriting on risk acceptability, coverages, pricing, terms, and conditions.
  • Underwrite accounts exceeding the authority level of underwriting staff by analyzing applications, risk services reports, Motor Vehicle Reports (MVRs), financial reports, and other relevant information; determine accurate classification of business, policy contract forms, and pricing of risk; refer accounts to Home Office Underwriting as needed based on established guidelines.
  • Develop a high-performing team of construction, manufacturing and distribution, middle market and/or small commercial underwriting professionals through strong leadership and execution, including coaching, feedback, and performance management.
  • Demonstrate genuine care and provide regular, specific constructive feedback to staff and leaders to develop their skill sets and performance for current and future roles.
  • Contribute to the organization's success by developing business unit and individual performance goals, measuring results, and providing recognition and acknowledgment of key achievements.
  • Engage agency partners through selective travel, participation in distribution-related events, and correspondence on key accounts; provide leadership and oversight in the selection and management of the distribution network of independent agencies.
  • Conduct quarterly underwriting file quality reviews and share results with the Regional Manager; develop and implement action plans in response to file quality reviews.
  • Monitor and report on key performance indicators for the portfolio, including pipelines, quotes, new business, total book of business, mix of business, retention, loss performance, and rate attainment.
  • Partner with leaders in other business units (Home Office Underwriting, Claims, Risk Services, Customer Experience, IT, Analytics) to enhance the effectiveness of critical business processes and products.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned by management.
  • Directly supervise Commercial Underwriters and provide overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of the unit.
  • Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with organizational policies and applicable laws, including interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; and addressing complaints and resolving problems.

• Ten years of commercial lines underwriting experience with expertise in construction, manufacturing, and distribution.
• Supervisory or management experience strongly desired.
• Well-rounded experience and in-depth knowledge of commercial insurance programs, policies, practices, coverages, forms, and underwriting strategies.
• Working knowledge of and experience in reinsurance placements and procedures.
  Demonstrated critical thinking, problem analysis, and problem resolution skills at both strategic and functional levels.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to communicate across all levels of the enterprise.
• Demonstrated ability to lead people and influence others to achieve results.
• Previous team leadership experience with an ability and passion for talent development.
• Ability to adjust rapidly to changing situations and shifting business priorities.
• Strong customer orientation.
• Effective organizational, multi-tasking, and prioritizing skills.
• Ability to travel and work outside normal work schedule to fulfill responsibilities.
• Regularly and consistently demonstrates commitment to company values and guiding principles.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience preferred.
• Completion of or progress toward AINS, AU, CPCU or similar professional insurance designations.
• Valid driver's license for travel.