Underwriting Specialist, Middle Market - Western Region

Underwriting Specialist, Middle Market - Western Region

134543

The Opportunity

Are you looking for a caring, collaborative, values-driven workplace with inspiring teammates and leaders? Do you have the ambition and desire to be the best and thrive at the most impactful global insurance provider in the world? Look no further than Zurich Canada.

Zurich Canada is currently looking for an Underwriting Specialist, Middle Market – Western Region in our Vancouver office to lead the underwriting and management of complex accounts, drive business growth, and deliver exceptional customer service.

Reporting to the VP, Middle Market, Western Region, you will analyze and underwrite new and renewal business, proactively engage with brokers and agents, assess risk, negotiate terms, and serve as a key contact for target accounts. You will also support cross‑selling, contribute to product development, and provide coaching to colleagues.

Zurich follows a hybrid work model requiring three days per week of in‑person presence, which may include time in the office or market‑facing engagements.

What you will do

• Analyze and underwrite new and renewal business for highly complex accounts within delegated authority.
• Proactively seek renewal and new account opportunities, building relationships with brokers, agents, and clients.
• Complete detailed opportunity assessments with distributors to identify growth areas.
• Qualify accounts to meet the organization’s appetite and sound business opportunity.
• Negotiate terms and conditions, close deals, and cross‑sell other lines of business to increase product density.
• Participate in sales team meetings and maintain visibility in the office and market.
• Accurately measure exposure, assess risk, and calculate target prices using underwriting tools.
• Support product development, contribute to underwriting manuals, and provide guidance on coverage issues.
• Lead marketing presentations and promote Zurich’s products and services.
• Manage and monitor multiple projects, ensuring appropriate use of resources and adherence to schedules.
• Provide advisory services and technical expertise to colleagues and senior management.
• Build strong client relationships, handle complex queries, and deliver solutions.
• Lead and implement long‑term business projects and technical solutions to meet customer needs.
• Coach and support team members, promoting Zurich’s values and contributing to performance management.

Job Qualifications - What you bring to the table

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent and 5+ years of underwriting or market‑facing experience in the property & casualty insurance sector

OR

• High school diploma or equivalent and 10+ years of experience in claims or underwriting support

OR

• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice and Associate Degree with 3+ years of underwriting or market‑facing experience

OR

• Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice and Associate Degree with 8+ years of claims or underwriting support experience

AND

• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong negotiation, relationship building, and presentation skills
• In‑depth knowledge of underwriting philosophy, risk analysis, and relevant regulations
• Ability to function effectively in a team environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Experience working under time constraints for quotes on new and renewal business
• Valid driver’s license; ability to travel as required

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field
• Advanced knowledge of processing methods and insurance regulations for assigned territories
• Demonstrated experience with consulting, business development, and technical project leadership

At Zurich Canada, we are committed to pay equity. We determine compensation based on objective criteria such as skills, experience, and internal equity. The salary range for this position is $110,000 - $140,000. This range reflects the expected pay for the role across Canada and may vary depending on factors such as office location, specific responsibilities, and individual qualifications. As required by local law, Zurich provides in good faith a reasonable compensation range, but starting salaries may exceed this range based on a candidate’s skills and experience.

If you are interested in a job opportunity, please advise if you require an accommodation, so we can work with you to provide a more accessible process.