Chief Underwriting Officer: Strategy & Growth

W. R. Berkley Corporation; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 250,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

W. R. Berkley Corporation seeks a Chief Underwriting Officer to direct underwriting strategy, governance, and profitability across operating units. The role leads a high-performing team, collaborates with senior leaders, and shapes risk management programs to deliver shareholder value.

The CUO will drive pricing, authority, and process improvements while aligning with the company’s broad risk appetite. Travel up to 20% will be required.

Qualifications

• BA/BS degree in a related field is ideal.
• Minimum of 10 years commercial insurance underwriting experience.
• Demonstrated ability to provide strategic and tactical leadership to a team.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with collaborative approach.
• Ability to travel up to 20% of time.

Responsibilities

• Oversee underwriting strategy, guidelines, and limits of authority.
• Establish underwriting authority levels and referral processes.
• Develop pricing and underwriting strategies for profitable growth.
• Lead processes for customized underwriting and risk management solutions.
• Identify and manage emerging risks and portfolio balance.
• Develop internal/external relationships to strengthen partnerships.
• Lead corporate underwriting team and talent development.
• Assist in forms and rate filings and authority drafting.
• Lead internal underwriting audit and data accuracy.
• Report to Senior Leadership on progress and results.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Underwriting leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

Agile/adaptable

Travel readiness

Education

BA/BS degree in related field

Job description

W. R. Berkley Corporation seeks a Chief Underwriting Officer to direct underwriting strategy, governance, and profitability across operating units. The role leads a high-performing team, collaborates with senior leaders, and shapes risk management programs to deliver shareholder value.

The CUO will drive pricing, authority, and process improvements while aligning with the company’s broad risk appetite. Travel up to 20% will be required.