Construction Underwriter & Broker Growth Lead

Vela Insurance Services (a Berkley Company); Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 130,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Wellness program

Paid time off

401(k) and Profit-Sh Sharing plans

Job summary

Vela Insurance Services is seeking a Broker Specialist / Construction Underwriter in the Atlanta, GA or Chicago, IL area. You will own new business production, manage broker relationships, and shape market strategy within the E&S construction space.

The role combines underwriting expertise with strategic partnership responsibilities, offering growth in a dynamic, market-facing environment and travel to strengthen presence with wholesale brokers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Insurance, Risk Management, or a related field (preferred).
• 5–8+ years of experience in E&S underwriting or broker-facing insurance sales.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of E&S market dynamics and wholesale broker distribution.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead underwriting for assigned market segment and drive new business production.
• Build and deepen broker relationships through proactive engagement and visits.
• Serve as primary contact for wholesale brokers with responsive underwriting guidance.
• Partner cross-functionally to deliver timely, competitive solutions.
• Negotiate pricing and terms to secure profitable business.
• Manage and grow a robust new-business pipeline and meet production goals.
• Support renewal retention and contribute to portfolio health.
• Represent the organization at industry events and conferences.
• Travel regularly to strengthen relationships and drive market presence.

Skills

Negotiation

Relationship management

Presentation skills

Strategic underwriting

Portfolio management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Insurance, Risk Management, or related field

Job description

Vela Insurance Services is seeking a Broker Specialist / Construction Underwriter in the Atlanta, GA or Chicago, IL area. You will own new business production, manage broker relationships, and shape market strategy within the E&S construction space.

The role combines underwriting expertise with strategic partnership responsibilities, offering growth in a dynamic, market-facing environment and travel to strengthen presence with wholesale brokers.