Middle Market Lead Underwriter

#LI-DNI The Commercial Lines Lead Underwriters, working under limited supervision, represents the company among a defined territory of agencies, with responsibility for the managing and servicing of a profitable renewal book of Commercial Lines business utilizing the highest level of technical underwriting ability. The role leads the monthly renewal strategy meeting, acts as an Account Steward for the customer and as a key point of contact for the agency, maintaining and implementing appropriate service strategies to deliver our customer service commitment to the customer. The role makes responsible decisions regarding risk acceptability and pricing. The role also provides agency service and maintain intra-company communications and are regarded as a peer leader, subject matter expert, and mentor for technical and sales skills, and may serve as a direct leader of the Underwriting Assistants. Leads reviews and underwriting of individual applications (new and renewal business) for commercial lines and agribusiness, determining acceptability of risk in accordance with company guidelines and standards by reviewing the application and risk for exposure identification. Calculates possible risk and determines appropriate insurance premiums using actuarial information, other statistics, and own judgement, within own authority level, making necessary referrals in accordance with company policy. Sets accurate, realistic premium forecasts and business plans in a timely manner to enable management to set accurate budgets and performance targets. Utilizes strong relationships to build and maintain effective communication externally (between agents and company) and internally (within the company) regarding underwriting procedures and practices, growth goals and objectives, and agency relations. Stays current with branch underwriting strategies related to appetite and pricing increases and assists in strategy execution. Develops and executes an effective agency strategy to grow the business and participates in underwriting related continuing education. Notifies agencies of adverse underwriting decisions, underwriting requirements, status, and declinations and answers questions from agencies, policyholders or other external contacts and escalates issues to management as necessary. Keeps current on state/territory issues and regulations, industry activity and trends, and shares this information with team members. Engages in and provides subject matter expertise for departmental projects, initiatives, and special studies regarding underwriting procedures and practices. Assists in the training and development of new employees assigned to the unit and may serve as a mentor for other underwriters who are seeking development or as a work lead to interns, underwriting assistants or other lower-level underwriters. 5-8 years of Commercial Underwriting experience. Bachelor's degree in Business or related discipline and/or commensurate experience. Location Hybrid defined as three or more days per week in the office. Behavioral Competencies Collaborates Communicates Effectively Customer Focus Decision Quality Nimble Learning Founded in 1848, Westfield is a global leader in property and casualty insurance, delivering superior risk insights and innovative solutions to customers through a diverse portfolio of insurance products. Westfield underwrites commercial, personal, surety, and specialty lines of coverage through a network of leading independent agents and brokers in the United States and specialty products through Lloyd's of London Syndicate 1200. As a mutual insurance company with more than 3,000 employees, Westfield has revenues in excess of $4 billion and more than $10 billion in assets. Westfield celebrates diversity and is committed to inclusion. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color,