Specialist, Contract Underwriting - E&S/Specialty - Portfolio Underwriting & Optimization

Specialist Underwriter – Planning Unit Operations (PUO) Portfolio Underwriting & Optimization Nationwide’s Property and Casualty team seeks a Specialist Underwriter to drive profitable growth through strategic book management and underwriting optimization. This role works within the Contract Property & C Casualty underwriting organization, applying underwriting expertise and data‑driven analysis to identify and execute actions aligned with business strategy. Eligibility This role does not qualify for employer-sponsored work authorization. Nationwide does not participate in the Stem OPT Extension program. Responsibilities Management/assisting of assigned LOB/segment and identify, coordinate, and deliver product, appetite, and pricing optimization changes to the portfolio. Ensure rate strategy implementation and execution for assigned LOB/segment. Utilize data tools, reporting and external resources and publications to identify trends and recommend actions to improve profitability. Collaborate with underwriting and agency partners to solicit feedback on new product and program opportunities. Collaborate with product and technology partners to drive successful implementation of product enhancements in underwriting systems and ensure system behavior supports underwriting intent. Collaborate with product on the design and development of new forms and standalone product/program offerings. Provide recommendations for future audits based on existing portfolio trends or retrospective portfolio reviews. Participate in claims roundtables, agency visits or calls to proactively identify, research, and solve trend/opportunity issues in assigned segments. Attend industry conferences and events. Assist or manage Alternative Distribution book as needed. Review individual risks with assigned agents or programs, decline or accept business based on required information. Analyze exposures to loss, develop premium charge, and determine appropriate endorsements or exclusions. Place reinsurance where required and achieve individual production and loss ratio goals through sound territory management. Quote, price, and underwrite new and renewal policies and endorsements for complex or service‑sensitive accounts. Monitor risk selection and pricing decisions for whole agency plant and individual accounts. Work with complex issues concerning coverage, programs, agents, and program managers. Analyze premium and loss results across agency, state, major class, and program; assess quality of submissions and recommend corrective actions. Develop and implement specific action plans as required. Handle policy maintenance items and mid‑term requests. Review endorsement requests and process necessary changes. Review loss control reports and recommend changes or agent actions. Follow up on outstanding information. Review claim activity and take appropriate action. Review agency books, profit/growth trends, and recommend and implement action plans. Foster positive business relationships with general agents through daily contact and conflict resolution. Travel to agency offices for audits, training or marketing visits. Entertain agents visiting the Company when required. Assist with development of marketing ideas and strategies for underwriting seminars and other marketing campaigns. Place reinsurance per department guidelines and maintain relationships with reinsurers. Market Nationwide products and services to support agency and company results. Assist agencies with pipeline management, producer development, and new business in targeted industries. Respond effectively to assess accounts and develop business propositions that secure business. Perform program research and development, form development, rate development, and technical assistance to agents, assistants, and other underwriters. Proactively develop technical and business knowledge through internal and external venues. May perform additional responsibilities as assigned. Qualifications Six years related experience or five years as an underwriter with prior Commercial P&C Excess & Surplus lines underwriting experience. Commercial E&S P&C underwriting and product knowledge. Ability to identify, manage, and solve trends within a book of business. Understanding of underwriting operations and underwriting systems. Familiarity with ISO and other industry resources. Data analysis skills and ability to assess impact on book performance. Project management skills; ability to prioritize multiple tasks under tight deadlines. Self‑starter who initiates improvement of quality, processes, and communication. Proficient communicator capable of explaining complex concepts to a broad audience. Ability to manage ambiguity and operate under limited direction. Strong rapport with other departments and collaboration on project work. Accountability for performance of a segment of a larger vertical. Undergraduate degree preferred; equivalent work experience considered. Completion of general insurance courses such as CPCU, CIC, AU, ARM, CPIW, CWIS, or ASLI is preferred. Knowledge of underwriting policies, practices, insurance law, marketing principles, rating plans, treaty and facultative reinsurance concepts, agency system, and regulatory issues. Strong communication, negotiation, and customer‑service skills. Ability to analyze risks, assess policy language, rating plans, reinsurance, and use of computer software. Leadership, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities. Experience with data tools, reporting, and publishing resources. Location This position can be filled anywhere within the lower 48 U.S. states. Benefits Medical, dental, and vision coverage Life insurance and disability coverage (short‑term and long‑term) Paid time off: minimum 18 days new hire PTO per full calendar year, nine paid holidays, 8 hours Lifetime PTO, 8 hours Unity Day PTO 401(k) with company match and company‑paid pension plan Business casual attire policy Employment Practices Nationwide is an equal‑opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels challenged, appreciated, respected and engaged. Nationwide prohibits discrimination and harassment and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company