Executive Underwriter OR AVP, Underwriting Director- Contract Surety

Executive Underwriter or AVP, Underwriting Director – Contract Surety Zurich North America is looking for an Executive Underwriter or AVP/Underwriting Director for the Contract Surety Line of Business. This highly technical, market-facing position requires experience in surety lines, strong underwriting knowledge, and leadership in managing a team of production underwriters. The role is based in Owings Mills, Maryland with hybrid arrangements in East PA, Bethesda Maryland, DC, or North VA and requires approximately 20% travel. Responsibilities Work with minimal direction to underwrite and analyze new and renewal business within delegated authority levels for highly complex assignments. Demonstrate specialized knowledge of products and industry. Administer and monitor underwriting rules, guidelines, insurance laws, regulations, and rating manuals. Use maximum authority limits and coordinate on the most technically complex assignments. Build and maintain relationships with distributors (agents & brokers) to support business retention and acquisition. Act as a help point for agents, brokers and customers, providing technical guidance and training to lower-level underwriters. Proactively seek renewal and new account opportunities and identify growth opportunities through detailed assessments with key distributors. Qualify accounts to align with the organization's appetite while ensuring sound business opportunities. Negotiate terms & conditions and close deals with agents, brokers, and customers. Cross‑sell other lines of business to increase product density within accounts. Participate in sales team meetings related to assigned brokers and territory. Engage in target account process, managing a qualified list of opportunities 90‑120 days before effective date. Update required systems with broker/client visit details and account status within specified timeframe. Serve as key contact for assigned target accounts. Develop strong broker and client networks related to the business units and industries underwritten. Calculate target price accurately using underwriting tools. Lead product development and sponsor underwriting initiatives. Develop training and manage emerging issues within the business unit. Resolve technical issues and provide coverage expertise with claims. Develop underwriting manuals, programs, and guidelines. Handle and review large/complex underwriting submissions and annual reviews. Benchmark and establish best practices, and act as a mentor. Basic Qualifications High School Diploma or Equivalent and 5+ years in underwriting, banking, mortgage, finance, or market-facing area. High School Diploma or Equivalent and 10+ years in claims or underwriting support area. Zurich approved Apprenticeship program with associate degree and 3+ years in underwriting, banking, mortgage, finance, or market-facing area. Zurich approved Apprenticeship program with associate degree and 8+ years in claims or underwriting support area. Knowledge of Microsoft Office. Experience working on time restraints for quotes on new and renewal business. Experience working in a team environment. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree. Advanced knowledge and practice of lines of business. Strong knowledge of underwriting philosophy, techniques, national/local filing regulations, and guidelines. Ability to assess risk effectively. Ability to work in a team-based environment. Knowledge of time restraints for quotes on new and renewal business. Strong presentation skills. Compensation Salary range: $103,300–$223,700 nationwide (Executive Underwriter: $103,300–$169,100; AVP/Underwriting Director: $136,500–$223,700). Short‑term incentive bonus eligibility: 15% for Executive level, 20% for AVP/Director level. EEO Statement 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. Location & Work Details Office: Owings Mills, Maryland (Hybrid - East PA; Bethesda, Maryland; DC or North VA). Remote Working: Hybrid. Schedule: Full Time. Hiring Level: Executive Underwriter or AVP/Underwriting Director. Employment Sponsorship Offered: No. #J-18808-Ljbffr