Director of Surety

Job Description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY:

We are seeking a talented and results-driven Director of Surety to lead and grow a high-performing Surety department. Reporting directly to executive leadership, this role is responsible for ensuring exceptional client service, driving strategic growth, and leading a team to achieve departmental objectives. The ideal candidate combines strong leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills while maintaining an active role in business development and account management.

At all times, this role is responsible for adherence to the stated expectations of Sentinel’s Errors and Omissions Management Program.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: Strategic Leadership

Establish and execute the department’s vision and long-term strategic plan

Drive annual growth and retention goals

Collaborate with executive leadership to align department strategy with organizational objectives

Business Plan Execution

Develop and implement strategies to achieve business plan objectives

Ensure compliance, quality control, and continuous improvement of departmental procedures

Team Management

Lead, coach, and evaluate team members

Oversee workflow management and performance evaluations

Conduct regular training on surety programs, industry updates, and operational efficiencies

Recruitment and Talent Development

Recruit, hire, and train department staff

Support recruitment of new team members

Review employee career progression and allocate resources for ongoing development

Client Responsibilities

Develop new business opportunities and ensure client retention

Manage client inquiries and resolve concerns professionally

Maintain and grow a book of business

Generation and collection of data for new accounts.

Negotiation and placement with Surety Carriers

Generation and communication of account placement strategy

Technology and Carrier Relationship Management

Evaluate technology needs to improve operational efficiency

Maintain and strengthen relationships with surety carriers

Support effective use of agency management and automation systems

Industry Engagement

Stay informed on market trends and technical surety knowledge

Participate in professional development, industry associations, and committees

Cross-refer clients and prospects to other internal departments and strategic partners

Other

Foster a positive work environment..

Community outreach and involvement.

Contribute to Thought Leadership with articles or presentations on various topics

Qualifications

Minimum 5 years of managerial and leadership experience

Minimum 5 years of experience in Contract Surety

Bachelor’s degree in business management or related field (or equivalent experience)

Active Property & Casualty Agent/Broker License in good standing

Demonstrated progression of increasing responsibility

Experience with agency management systems and adaptability to new technology

Responsible for the oversight, management, and implementation of all strategies as they relate to management and servicing of an account.

Oversee a proactive and positive client experience, working in coordination with the service team

Oversight of account claims process in coordination with claims team.

Consistent Center of Influence Development and Management.

Participate in weekly meetings regarding client experience, service, renewal retention, and claims

Comfortable and fluid in usage of CRM tools - Salesforce, LinkedIn, and Zywave

Collection and management of Accounts Receivable.

Ability to carry out complex tasks with many concrete and abstract variables.

Strong computer skills and familiarity with tools such as Outlook, Excel, Word, Zywave and CRM.

Ability to manage complex projects simultaneously.

Ability to work independently and take the lead on all elements of client servicing.

Negotiation and presentation skills.

PERSONAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT:

Sets priorities and manages workflow to ensure efficient, timely and accurate processing of transactions and other responsibilities.

Maintains a cordial and effective relationship with clients, co-workers, carriers, vendors, and other business contacts.

Remains up to date regarding industry information, new product information, legislation, coverage, and technology to continuously improve knowledge and performance.

Interact with others effectively by utilizing good communications skills, cooperating purposefully, and providing information and guidance, as needed, to achieve the business goals of the agency.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Fast-paced environment.

Large number of multiple steps in complex system performed with accuracy and speed are essential to the successful completion of tasks.

Any other duties as requested

Pay Range: $100,000-120,000+ Commissions

The specific compensation for this position will be determined by a number of factors, including the scope, complexity, and location of the role as well as the cost of labor in the market; the skills, education, training, credentials, and experience of the candidate; and other conditions of employment. Full-time associates have access to benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability as well as 401K contribution match.