Lead Program Underwriter, Specialty E&S

Nationwide; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 224,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/dental/vision

Life insurance

401(k) with company match

Pension plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Nationwide is seeking a skilled underwriter to lead complex program underwriting initiatives. You will evaluate risk, set pricing and terms, and drive profitability through program-level strategies and collaboration with partners.

The role emphasizes building relationships with program managers, reinsurers, and internal stakeholders to deliver optimized solutions while ensuring compliance and effective risk management across multiple programs.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of commercial insurance (E&S) or specialty underwriting policies.
• Strong verbal and written communication and ability to influence stakeholders.
• Experience leading programs and managing internal/external partners.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary underwriting lead for assigned programs and make independent decisions within authority.
• Develop strategic underwriting plans and forecast profitability for programs.
• Analyze program manager relationships and identify new business opportunities.
• Review complex risks and decide to accept or decline based on information.
• Collaborate with reinsurers and maintain relationships for facilities.
• Develop guidelines, forms, rate filings, and procedures for new/modified programs.

Skills

Underwriting

Risk analysis

Financial analysis

Negotiation

Leadership

Program management

Education

Undergraduate degree in Business/Finance

Graduate degree preferred

Job description

Nationwide is seeking a skilled underwriter to lead complex program underwriting initiatives. You will evaluate risk, set pricing and terms, and drive profitability through program-level strategies and collaboration with partners.

The role emphasizes building relationships with program managers, reinsurers, and internal stakeholders to deliver optimized solutions while ensuring compliance and effective risk management across multiple programs.