Director, Business Development

Director, Business Development – Surety (Large Contract) Nationwide invites applications for the Director, Business Development – Surety (Large Contract) role. If you are passionate about protecting what matters most, simplifying processes, and delivering extraordinary customer value, this team may be the right fit. Job Description Summary Lead an underwriting team that includes surety territory managers and field underwriters, managing sales and underwriting relationships for a large surety book of business. Build and maintain business relationships with agencies and brokers, focus on underwriting, agency/customer relationship management, employee engagement, and expense management. Key Responsibilities Analyze portfolio and individual account performance to drive profitable growth. Review and approve underwriting decisions, ensuring compliance with legal and organizational objectives; recommend strategy and opportunities to leadership. Set priorities, workflow standards, and performance measurements for the department. Plan and integrate territory sales plans, translate strategic plans into operational goals, budgets, and timelines; manage associates and performance. Drive sales strategies to develop new business, improve retention, and maintain profitability; handle escalated customer service issues. Provide input to leadership on strategic plans, identify operational efficiencies, and consult on higher‑authority accounts. Communicate strategic direction and operational plans to internal and external partners; ensure awareness of corporate initiatives. Develop strong business relationships with commercial lines market players and internal functions (Claims, Marketing, IT). Coach territory managers and field underwriters on pursuing surety opportunities and growing profitable territories. May perform other responsibilities as assigned. Reporting Relationships Reports to AVP, Surety. Direct reports include surety territory managers, field underwriters, and underwriting associates. Typical Skills and Experiences Education: Undergraduate degree in business, insurance, or related field preferred. License/Certification/Designation: Actively pursuing AFSB, CPCU, or other relevant certification desired. Experience: Ten years in commercial or contract surety underwriting and significant business management and leadership experience preferred. Knowledge, Abilities, and Skills: Deep understanding of surety operations, underwriting best practices, risk selection, pricing, and market dynamics. Excellent communication, prioritization, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities. Competencies include building talent, optimizing diversity, leading change, and driving execution. Values Regular demonstration of Nationwide Values. Job Conditions Overtime Eligibility: Exempt (Not eligible). Working Conditions: Extended or non‑standard hours, travel, and potential relocation. Valid driver’s license required. ADA: Core functions of the job are described; adjustments may be made for qualified individuals. Benefits Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑ and long‑term disability, paid time off with a minimum of 18 days per year, nine paid holidays, 8 hours of Lifetime Paid Time Off, 8 hours of Unity Day Paid Time Off, 401(k) with company match, company‑paid pension plan, business casual attire, and more. Click here to learn more about our benefits. Equal Opportunity Nationwide is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to an inclusive culture. Nationwide prohibits discrimination and harassment and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to any characteristic protected by law. Note to Employment Agencies Nationwide does not accept unsolicited resumes from employment agencies. All resumes submitted without a signed Nationwide Client Services Agreement will be deemed unsolicited. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired as a result of the referral. Seniority Level Director Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Business Development and Sales Industry Insurance #J-18808-Ljbffr