Head of Construction Underwriting

Aon; Toronto; On-site; CAD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading risk management firm is looking for a Head of Construction Underwriting in Toronto. In this strategic leadership role, you will develop and implement underwriting strategies while managing portfolios and leading a high-performing team. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience in construction underwriting, including 5 years in a leadership role, and possesses strong analytical and leadership skills. This role also involves market engagement and innovation to respond to emerging risks and drive profitable growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of construction underwriting experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Deep knowledge of construction lines, market trends, and regulatory environments.
• Proven track record of portfolio management and delivering profitable growth.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Construction underwriting strategy.
• Oversee the performance of construction portfolios, including general liability and other specialty lines.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing construction underwriting team.

Skills

Construction underwriting experience

Leadership

Communication

Portfolio management

Strategic problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree or professional designation

Job description

Head of Construction Underwriting

Aon is seeking a Head of Construction Underwriting – Linx Underwriting, based in Toronto. This strategic leadership role will be responsible for driving underwriting excellence, shaping portfolio strategy, and leading a high‑performing team within the Linx Underwriting division.

What the day will look like

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement the Construction underwriting strategy, ensuring alignment with company goals and market dynamics.
• Portfolio Management: Oversee the performance of construction portfolios, including general liability, professional liability, environmental liability, and other specialty lines.
• Underwriting Excellence: Establish and maintain underwriting guidelines, pricing models, and risk appetite frameworks to ensure consistent and profitable underwriting.
• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing construction underwriting team. Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Market Engagement: Represent the company in broker and client engagements, industry forums, and regulatory discussions. Build and maintain strong market relationships.
• Innovation & Emerging Risks: Monitor and respond to emerging risks such as cyber liability, climate‑related exposures, and social inflation. Drive innovation in product development and risk solutions.
• Compliance & Governance: Ensure adherence to internal controls, regulatory requirements, and audit standards.

Skills and experience that will lead to success

• Minimum 10 years of construction underwriting experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Deep knowledge of construction lines, market trends, and regulatory environments.
• Proven track record of portfolio management and delivering profitable growth.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strategic problem solver with analytical rigour and commercial competence.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or professional designation (e.g., CIP, FCIP, CPCU) preferred.
• Strategic vision and ability to set long‑term direction.
• Expertise in risk assessment and sound decision‑making.
• Capability to lead and develop people effectively.
• Strong market and client orientation with relationship‑building skills.
• Innovative outlook and ability to manage change.
• Solid financial foresight and understanding of profitability drivers.
• Awareness of regulatory requirements and compliance standards.

Aon is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering an inclusive workplace. If you require accommodations during the application or interview process, please let us know. You can request accommodations by emailing [e-mail] or your recruiter. We will work with you to meet your needs and ensure a fair and equitable experience.