05/08/2026

Underwriting Manager - Contract Surety

Job Description

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The Surety Underwriting Manager will be responsible for development of contract surety business in the states of KY, OH, and IN.  The underwriting manager will play a critical role in the production and underwriting of contract surety account business, hiring, management, and training of an underwriting and administrative support staff.

Key Accountabilities/Deliverables:

  • Organically grow a branch contract surety office meeting defined premium goals, loss and expense goals, and profit goals.

  • Develop and manage distribution channels, including brokers, agents, and partnerships to expand market reach and drive sales growth.

  • Build and develop a high-performing team of surety professionals, providing leadership, mentorship, and support to drive employee engagement, productivity, and retention.

  • Champion a customer-centric approach to deliver exceptional service, satisfaction, and value propositions that will differentiate our contract surety team in the marketplace.

  • Review and evaluate surety bond applications/submissions to determine risk levels and underwriting terms.

  • Analyze financial statements, work-in-process reports, credit reports, and other relevant underwriting documents to assess the financial quality and character of principals and indemnitors for the establishment of surety credit. 

  • Determine appropriate single and aggregate bond amounts, terms, and conditions based on risk analysis and industry standards.

  • Collaborate with brokers, agents, and principals to gather necessary information required for proper analysis of bond risks.

  • Keep current on industry trends, regulations, underwriting practices, and competitors.

  • Keep abreast of obligee requirements and statutory changes.

  • Other projects and tasks as assigned.



Technical Knowledge and Understanding:

  • Strong technical contract surety underwriting expertise and financial analysis expertise.

  • Excellent analytical and decision-making skills, with the ability to assess complex risks and provide solutions.

  • Leadership and team management abilities, with a focus on coaching, development, and performance management.

  • Proficiency in underwriting software and tools.

  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills, both verbal and written, for building relationships and managing stakeholder expectations.

  • Time management and prioritization skills.

  • Ability to multi-task and collaborate effectively with others in a high-performance team environment.



Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business, or related field.

  • 7+ years in surety underwriting or related field.

  • The ability to meet tight deadlines.

  • Strong customer service with a professional attitude and approach.

  • Demonstrate significant contribution to underwriting profit.

  • Experience in delivering presentations to internal and external audiences.

  • Experience with employee development, mentoring, coaching and performance management skills.

  • Ability to travel as needed, and with short notice.



 


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At Core Specialty, you will receive a competitive salary and opportunities for professional development and advancement.  We offer medical, dental, vision, and life insurances; short and long-term disability; a Company-match of 100% of a 6% contribution 401(k) plan; an Employee Assistance Plan; Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, Health Reimbursement Account, and a wellness program


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