VP, Senior Underwriting Manager - Programs

VP, Senior Underwriting Manager – Programs – Zurich North America

Zurich North America is seeking a Vice President, Programs to lead underwriting and operational initiatives, build trusted relationships, and help shape the strategic direction of our dynamic Programs Business unit. This influential role requires deep expertise in program business, a strategic outlook, and a collaborative mindset.
Reporting directly to the Head of Programs
, the position offers flexibility in location and can be based at any of our Zurich offices. Some business travel will be required.

• Partner with the Programs leadership team to define and execute a multi‑year strategy and business goals while identifying new growth opportunities with key distributors.
• Develop tactical plans to achieve profitable growth across a diverse portfolio, and drive results.
• Lead initiatives and champion key operational actions to cultivate a customer‑focused, results‑driven underwriting culture.
• Translate market insights into actionable objectives, and mentor staff to develop strong program administrator and client networks.
• Build trusted partnerships with Program Administrators, agents, brokers, and customers, serving as a solutions provider.
• Administer underwriting rules, insurance laws, and rating guidelines; review and act on agency performance and trends.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and standards to deliver profitable outcomes.

• Bachelor’s Degree and 10 or more years of experience in underwriting, market‑facing, broker, carrier or risk management within the commercial insurance industry.
• Bachelor’s Degree with 20 or more years of experience in claims or underwriting support within the commercial insurance industry.
• Experience in the Programs line of business or segment.
• 2 or more years of people‑management experience.

• Advanced knowledge and practice of line(s) of business.
• Strategic planning and execution experience.
• Strong team‑building and organization skills.
• Strong verbal, written, and communication skills.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Experience managing complex portfolios.
• Technical knowledge of insurance industry operations and processes.
• Knowledge of risk selection and strategic components of anticipating the market environment.
• CPCU designation.

The proposed salary range for this position is $197,800 – $304,000, with short‑term incentive bonus eligibility set at 25%. Your pay at Zurich is based on your role, location, skills, and experience, and you may also be eligible for bonuses and merit increases.

We offer competitive pay and comprehensive benefits for employees and their families.

Location(s): AM – Schaumburg, AM – Illinois Virtual Office, AM – New Jersey Virtual Office, AM – Texas Virtual Office, AM – Washington State Virtual Office. Remote working:
Hybrid.

Schedule:

Full Time. Employment Sponsorship:
No.

Zurich North America does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, pregnancy or other characteristics protected by applicable law. Equal Opportunity Employer, disability/vets. Zurich complies with 18 U.S. Code § 1033.