Service Underwriter II

UFG is currently hiring for a Service Underwriter II who will be able to provide quality customer service to internal & external clients, underwrite new & existing business, and provide superior end-to-end service in the Service Center. A Service Underwriter II will have general expertise in underwriting profitability, production, agency relations, and customer service and leadership skills. The ideal candidate is someone who is self-motivated with strong multi-tasking ability. 

While this role is a fully remote opportunity it does require working hours from 8am - 4:30pm PT / 10am - 6:30pm CT / 11am - 7:30pm ET.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities: 

Underwriting Profitability, Production, Agency Relations & Customer Service

• Make educated decisions on claims and risk controls
• After issuance of new policies, assist with onboarding insureds
• General to working knowledge of new business risk analysis
• Assist policyholders with policy changes, renewal instructions, drivers lists, certificates of insurance, cancellations, reinstatements, first loss reports, billing/claims/policy inquiries, replacement auto ID cards,
  coverage questions, etc. both over the phone and through written correspondence.
• Enter accurate information onto the various computer systems from policyholder phone calls and written correspondence
• Review policy change requests, renewal instructions, MVR’s, Experience Mods, loss experience, Loss Control reports and product brochures for risk acceptability. May consult management, other underwriters, websites, and Best Underwriting Guide
• Ask pertinent questions when a policyholder requests a policy change – midterm and renewal. Select critical information needed
• Utilizing negotiation and sales tactics knowledgably
• Utilize underwriting resources
• Work to de-escalate issues that are derived/perceived from our internal/external customers
• Use analytical tools provided to track customer interactions and provide agency’s with detailed information of these interactions
• Work towards developing agency partnerships by having consistent communication and potential in-person visits
• Building communication with agency expectations
• Uses attributes including planning, persuasion, strategy and other tactics efficiently

Leadership Responsibilities

• Able to incorporate feedback and take direction well
• Communicates successes & opportunities for improvement
• Raises vital questions, issues, and recommends solutions where applicable
• Gathers appropriate resources to problem solve
• Plan & prioritizes daily activities
• Reviews team schedule to support business need
• Demonstrates solid judgment, competence, and knowledge critical to this role
• Demonstrates the ability to recognize the need for changes and positively support change efforts
• Promotes shared knowledge
• Work to de-escalate issues that are derived/perceived from internal/external customers by taking accountability and ownership
• Understands complex issues and initiates potential solutions

Job Specifications:

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred or equivalent work experience
• Preferred to have insurance coursework and/or designations
• Examples may include AINS, AU, CPCU
• Property & Casualty License required

Experience:

• 3+ years of relevant experience
• 3+ years of customer service experience
• Independent agency experience is a plus

Knowledge, skills & abilities:

• Solid expertise in MS Suite
• Working knowledge of:
  • Underwriting concepts
  • Contract knowledge
  • Negotiation skills
  • Mentoring
• Professionally presented ideas, thoughts, explanations, and written communication
• Solid use of professional etiquette
• Analytical and detail oriented
• General knowledge of United Fire Group systems, rating & underwriting
• Be approachable and build a trusting environment to encourage team collaboration
• Deals effectively with others in both favorable and unfavorable situations regardless of status of position
• Accepts interpersonal and cultural diversity

Working Conditions:

• General office work environment not typically subject to adverse environmental factors. Requires extended computer usage,
  extended periods of sitting and an expectation for phone coverage.