Programs Business Development Manager - Specialty Insurance Programs Underwriter

SUMMARY

The Program Business Development Manager is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and advancing new delegated underwriting authority program opportunities. This role requires deep understanding of portfolio-level underwriting performance, program structure, and risk management to ensure new opportunities align with the organization’s risk appetite and profitability targets. The position plays a critical role in assessing program administrators, evaluating underwriting discipline and historical performance, and developing comprehensive business cases (PARs) to support executive decision-making. The role works cross-functionally to move vetted opportunities through the pipeline and into successful implementation. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Identify and evaluate new program opportunities through market relationships, brokers, and program administrators. 
• Conduct initial screening of opportunities to assess strategic alignment, underwriting appetite, portfolio fit, target segments, and distribution approach. 
• Lead due diligence of program administrators, including evaluation of underwriting practices, portfolio performance, operational capabilities, governance, reporting, claims practices, and third-party relationships. 
• Assess administrator alignment with carrier expectations and identify risks related to underwriting discipline, adverse selection, and sustainable growth. 
• Evaluate program opportunities from a portfolio underwriting perspective, including class mix, exposure profiles, rate adequacy, pricing strategy, profitability outlook, volatility, concentration risk, diversification benefits, and forms utilization. 
• Partner with actuarial and underwriting teams to validate assumptions and ensure programs align with enterprise risk appetite and return thresholds. 
• Develop Program Assessment Reports, including financial projections, profitability analysis, risk assessments, mitigation strategies, program profiles, and implementation steps.
• Translate complex underwriting and financial data into clear, actionable recommendations for senior leadership review and approval. 
• Manage program opportunities through the full pipeline lifecycle, tracking milestones, dependencies, risks, and strategic priorities. 
• Support implementation and transition of approved programs by driving cross-functional alignment, developing execution plans, and ensuring launch readiness.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

Relevant combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of degree.

• Bachelor’s degree in insurance, business or a related field is required. 
• Advanced industry certification such as CPCU, ARE, et al are preferred.
• Minimum ten (10) years of Property and Casualty experience preferably in an underwriting and/or product development role. 
• Minimum of five (5) years of delegated underwriting authority capacity (carrier or program admin) experience; or prior experience/roles in where insurance portfolio evaluation was critical. E.g. Reinsurance underwriter, M&A underwriting.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent presentation and facilitation skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and project management abilities.
• Ability to make competent, independent decisions with minimal supervision.
• Ability and proficiency in the use of computers and Company standard software specific to position.
• Deep underwriting acumen with ability to evaluate performance at the portfolio level.
• Strong understanding of program structures, economics, and controls within delegated authority models.
• Advanced analytical and financial modeling capabilities.
• Ability to assess administrator quality, underwriting discipline, and operational maturity.
• Strong risk assessment and decision-making skills in ambiguous environments.
• Proven ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders without direct authority.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. This job description does not constitute a contract for employment.

PAY RANGE 

Actual compensation decision relies on the consideration of internal equity, candidate’s skills and professional experience, geographic location, market, and other potential factors. It is not standard practice for an offer to be at or near the top of the range, and therefore a reasonable estimate for this role is between  $121,500 and $$203,400.

WORKING CONDITIONS 

Work is performed in a virtual office environment or in the field with minimal hazards. Travel is required, with occasional overnight stays. Ability to lift and carry computer equipment weighing up to 35 lbs.  Driver's license is required. 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will not tolerate discrimination or harassment in any form. Candidates for the position stated above are hired on an "at will" basis. Nothing herein is intended to create a contract.

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