Director of Underwriting

ABOUT US

Wayne Cooperative Insurance Company is a leader in providing high-quality personal and commercial insurance products, based out of the beautiful Finger Lakes Region of Upstate New York. We are committed to providing a stable marketplace and practical solutions for our agents, policyholders, and stakeholders. We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Director of Underwriting to lead our underwriting team and contribute to our continued growth.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Underwriting is a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the President / CEO and is responsible for overseeing the company’s underwriting strategy, risk assessment, product development and compliance within regulatory standards. This individual will drive operational efficiency, manage budgets, foster team development, and maintain deep relationships with agents and policyholders. This role requires a high level of technical underwriting expertise, strategic leadership, and ethical decision-making to support the company’s long-term success.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Industry Expertise & Strategic Growth

• Analyze market trends, competitive positioning, and long-term growth strategies in personal and commercial insurance.
• Support new product development by providing market insights and underwriting expertise.

Underwriting & Risk Assessment

• Review and evaluate new business applications, assess risk acceptability, and determine appropriate coverage.
• Oversee underwriting policies and ensure alignment with company guidelines and risk appetite.

Decision-Making & Compliance

• Manage a portfolio of personal and commercial lines policies, providing guidance and oversight to a team of underwriters and support staff

Customer & Agent Relations

• Provide clear communication regarding underwriting decisions and collaborate with agents on coverage, rates, and service-related matters.
• Maintain strong relationships with agents, policyholders, and stakeholders.

Leadership & Team Development

• Cultivate team strengths, promote learning opportunities, and recommend training programs.
• Conduct performance reviews and mentor underwriting staff to support professional growth.

Financial & Operational Management

• Oversee underwriting department performance, manage budgets, and ensure financial efficiency.
• Monitor and analyze loss ratios, underwriting profitability, and operational effectiveness.

Regulatory & Product Oversight

• Ensure company compliance with underwriting regulations and oversee regulatory filings.
• Monitor rates and coverage offerings for competitiveness and adequacy.
• Identify and develop product enhancements as needed

Executive Leadership & Ethics

• Serve as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, upholding ethical standards.
• Present reports to the Board and executive stakeholders on underwriting performance and strategic initiatives.

CULTURAL COMPETENCIES

• Innovation & Initiative: Approaches problems with curiosity and a willingness to take appropriate risks.
• Customer Orientation: Understands and responds to the needs of both internal and external customers.
• Communication: Presents ideas clearly and effectively, ensuring stakeholders are well-informed.
• Accountability & Reliability: Completes tasks accurately and on time, following through on commitments.
• Technical Competence: Applies industry knowledge to address challenges and opportunities.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Works effectively with others, respecting diverse perspectives.
• Drive for Results: Manages multiple projects, meets deadlines, and adapts to changing priorities.

LEADERSHIP

This position oversees the underwriting team, managing performance, and making hiring, promotion, and termination recommendations to the President/CEO.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Remain in a stationary position for extended periods.
• Operate a computer and other office equipment.
• Communicate and exchange information with team members and stakeholders.
• Observe details at close range.
• Safely operate a motor vehicle.

POSITION TYPE & HOURS

• This is a full-time, senior-level salaried position.
• Occasional long hours and weekend work may be required.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• This position requires a valid NYS Driver’s License.
• Travel, including overnight stays and extended days away from the office, may be required to meet business needs.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree, or a minimum of 10 years of property & casualty insurance experience
• Minimum of 5 years of underwriting experience within the property and casualty segment
• Minimum of 3 years of prior leadership experience
• Proven track record of dealing with complex projects and meeting conflicting demands

WORK ENVIRONMENT

At Wayne Cooperative, we’re committed to fostering a small, but dynamic team where every individual has a voice. Our culture is built around a relaxed, family-like atmosphere for our 23 employees. We value innovative ideas and are proud of our low turnover and long tenure, which averages 15 years. People join us and stay for a career!

In addition to a supportive work environment, we offer a robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health coverage, a generous retirement package, paid time off, and other perks designed to keep you happy and healthy both in and outside of the office.

Wayne Cooperative Insurance Company is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on age, creed, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, gender identity or expression, domestic violence victim status, disability, pregnancy-related condition, military status, favorably resolved arrest record, conviction record, predisposing genetic characteristics, familiar status, citizenship or immigration status, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.