AVP, Underwriting Special Risk A&H

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for an AVP, Underwriting Special Risk A&H based in the United States.

This is a senior leadership opportunity within a specialized Accident & Health underwriting organization focused on complex, niche insurance risks. You will shape the profitability, growth, and strategic direction of a diverse Special Risk portfolio. The role combines sophisticated risk selection, underwriting authority, portfolio management, and business development. You will work closely with MGAs, TPAs, brokers, producers, reinsurers, and internal stakeholders to structure innovative solutions. With significant autonomy, you will influence underwriting strategy while identifying emerging market opportunities and risks. The position also offers the opportunity to lead and mentor underwriting talent while improving operational effectiveness. This is an ideal environment for an experienced underwriting leader who thrives on complex decisions, collaboration, and measurable business impact.

Accountabilities:: Lead the underwriting strategy and performance of an assigned Special Risk portfolio, delivering profitability, retention, and written premium objectives.

Independently evaluate and select complex risks within established underwriting authority, ensuring sound risk decisions and comprehensive file documentation.

Underwrite submissions and quotes across relevant Special Risk segments, including travel, travel medical, and blanket accident business.

Develop and maintain strong relationships with MGAs, TPAs, brokers, producers, clients, and other strategic partners.

Analyze agency and portfolio results, hold distribution partners accountable to agreed objectives, and identify opportunities for profitable growth.

Lead negotiations involving complex accounts, program structures, and underwriting terms while clearly communicating the value proposition of the business.

Manage and oversee reinsurance relationships and placements, including arrangements supporting other carriers.

Conduct underwriting audits and participate in due diligence reviews for prospective MGA and TPA relationships.

Lead the onboarding of new clients, accounts, and distribution partners across multiple program structures.

Monitor market conditions, emerging threats, competitive dynamics, and industry developments to inform underwriting strategy.

Contribute to annual business planning, strategic initiatives, product development, and operational improvements.

Lead, develop, motivate, and retain underwriting professionals, providing clear direction, coaching, technical guidance, and accountability.

Serve as a senior technical resource and mentor for underwriting staff while supporting training and professional development initiatives.

Collaborate cross-functionally to improve processes, address challenges, and deliver high-quality solutions and customer service.

Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

10+ years of underwriting experience, with substantial expertise in specialty Accident & Health or related insurance segments.

Previous leadership or people-management experience with the ability to develop and motivate high-performing teams.

Demonstrated underwriting expertise across Special Risk, travel, travel medical, blanket accident, or comparable specialty business.

Strong risk management, analytical, problem-solving, and portfolio management capabilities.

Proven ability to make sound, independent underwriting decisions involving complex risks and business structures.

Strong understanding of insurance markets, distribution relationships, and emerging industry trends.

Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to influence brokers, producers, clients, and internal stakeholders.

Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and quality.

Strong Microsoft Office skills, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, along with proficiency in relevant underwriting and business systems.

Exceptional attention to detail and a strong commitment to customer service and execution.

Adaptability and a solution-oriented mindset suited to a fast-paced, continuously changing environment.

Relevant underwriting or industry designations are preferred.

Willingness to travel approximately 15–20% as required.

Benefits:

Base salary: $141,800–$208,000 USD annually, with actual compensation based on factors such as experience, skills, responsibilities, performance, and market conditions.

Eligibility for discretionary equity/stock-based compensation and/or performance-based variable pay programs .

Flexible work arrangements with a remote-friendly environment.

401(k) plan with a generous employer match .

Employee Stock Purchase Plan with employer matching.

Generous paid time off .

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage .

Wellness programs supporting physical, mental, and family well-being.

Tuition reimbursement , industry certifications, and professional training opportunities.

A collaborative, ambitious, and dynamic work environment.

Opportunities to participate in social responsibility initiatives , volunteer programs, and employee-driven charitable giving with donation matching.

How Jobgether works: We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team. We appreciate your interest and wish you the best!  Why Apply Through Jobgether?    Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.     #LI-CL1