Umbrella Excess Casualty Underwriter — Hybrid, Growth

Zurich North America; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 83,000 - 181,000; Full time

Job summary

Zurich North America is hiring an Underwriting Specialist or Executive Underwriter for Umbrella/Excess Casualty in Chicago. The role blends underwriting expertise with strong broker relationships and market presence, operating in a hybrid office setting across the region.

You will underwrite new and renewal business using Zurich’s framework, with responsibility for complex accounts and collaboration with sales teams to grow profitable premiums.

Qualifications

• Underwriting and market-facing experience in commercial lines.
• Knowledge of regulatory guidelines and time constraints for quotes on new/renewal business.
• Experience with Microsoft Office applications.

Responsibilities

• Proactively seek renewal and new account opportunities.
• Complete detailed opportunity assessment with key distributors to identify growth opportunities.
• Qualify accounts to meet appetite and business potential.
• Make agent/broker/customer and in-person calls with a clear purpose.
• Negotiate terms and conditions and close deals.
• Cross-sell other lines to increase product density.
• Participate in Sales Team meetings for assigned brokers/territory.
• Engage in target account processes 90–120 days before effective date.
• Update broker/client visit and account status in systems.

Skills

Underwriting experience

Market facing

Relationship building

Communication skills

Negotiation

Time management

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice with Associate Degree

Bachelor's degree (preferred)

CPCU (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Zurich North America is hiring an Underwriting Specialist or Executive Underwriter for Umbrella/Excess Casualty in Chicago. The role blends underwriting expertise with strong broker relationships and market presence, operating in a hybrid office setting across the region.

You will underwrite new and renewal business using Zurich’s framework, with responsibility for complex accounts and collaboration with sales teams to grow profitable premiums.