Axis Capital

Lead Underwriter - MPL

Chicago, IL Full time

This is your opportunity to join AXIS Capital – a trusted global provider of specialty lines insurance and reinsurance. We stand apart for our outstanding client service, intelligent risk taking and superior risk adjusted returns for our shareholders. We also proudly maintain an entrepreneurial, disciplined and ethical corporate culture. As a member of AXIS, you join a team that is among the best in the industry.

At AXIS, we believe that we are only as strong as our people. We strive to create an inclusive and welcoming culture where employees of all backgrounds and from all walks of life feel comfortable and empowered to be themselves. This means that we bring our whole selves to work. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or creed, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, age, marital status, civil union status, family or parental status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Accommodation is available upon request for candidates taking part in the selection process.

Lead Underwriter - MPL

The Lead Underwriter - MPL operates within established guidelines and market parameters to analyze, review, evaluate, and monitor new and renewal accounts for the Miscellaneous Professional Liability Practice. Responsibilities include mentoring or managing underwriters, working with actuaries and claims professionals, and negotiating with brokers. The position also entails updating underwriting guidelines according to market trends and contributing to the development of new insurance products.

Candidate Profile

The role of Lead Underwriter - MPL requires comprehensive expertise in Miscellaneous Professional Liability. The successful candidate will demonstrate an established record of achievement with a leading Commercial Insurance carrier and will be responsible for developing a portfolio targeting MPL risk nationwide.

Qualified individuals must possess strong relationships within the MPL wholesale broker network and have substantial experience in portfolio management, including solicitation of submissions, underwriting analysis, as well as preparation and issuance of indications, quotations, and binders, along with marketing activities.

Beyond technical proficiency, the position demands executive presence, with advanced skills in communication, influence, and relationship-building. The chosen candidate will contribute significant value to the organization and support long-term strategic goals.

Work Profile

The work profile for this exciting position entails a unique hybrid work environment that offers the flexibility of working from home two days a week and being present in one of our corporate offices for the remaining three days.

In addition to the hybrid work environment, this position requires regular travel to meet with brokers and clients face-to-face. This aspect of the job provides an excellent opportunity to build strong relationships with clients and further the underwriter’s insights into the industry.

As part of this role, you will also attend industry and company events. These events are an excellent opportunity to network with industry leaders, learn about the latest industry trends and innovations, and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in your field.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Strategically prospect new opportunities in the MPL Space. 
  • Manage a book of business, including developing new business opportunities and cross-marketing of product lines within AXIS.
  • Develop, mentoring and managing a team of junior underwriters
  • Meet divisional servicing objectives related to quote turnaround, policy issuance, phone management, renewal management, file maintenance, and documentation.
  • Analyze and underwrite individual risks. Develop appropriate limit structure, retention, pricing, and endorsements within underwriting guidelines. 
  • Continue to develop and update product and underwriting knowledge.
  • Participate in prospecting by identifying new business targets and opportunities and working closely with retail and wholesale brokers to ensure the department receives the opportunity to offer proposals. Make strategy recommendations to the supervisor.
  • Review and evaluate primarily new business based on company underwriting guidelines, competition, and geographic focus. Develop strategy and make recommendations. 
  • Perform broker marketing calls, including out-of-state travel. 
  • Solicit new accounts, gather market intelligence, and deliver up-to-date department information on products and services. 
  • Maintain up-to-date familiarity with economic and legal factors impacting the department’s business lines and the insurance industry. 
  • Participate in special projects department initiatives.

Required Education/Training & Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree 
  • A minimum of 5 years’ experience in underwriting in MPL lines of business. 
  • Strong presentation and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to establish broker relationships within the region

For this position, we expect to offer a base salary in the range of USD $215,000 to USD $240,000. The specific salary offer will be based on an assessment of various factors, including the experience of the successful candidate and their work location.

In addition, all employees are eligible for competitive incentive targets, with awards based on overall corporate and individual performance. On top of this, we offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package which includes medical plans for employees and their families, health and wellness programs, retirement plans, tuition reimbursement, paid vacation, and much more.