Job Description

ABOUT US

Wayne Cooperative, based in the beautiful Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York, is actively recruiting for a Personal Lines Underwriter to manage a book of Homeowner, Landlord and Dwelling Fire policies within our underwriting portfolio.

With a hybrid work arrangement available for this role , we offer the flexibility and autonomy that allows you to balance your professional and personal life. In addition to a supportive work environment, we offer a robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health coverage, a generous retirement package, paid time off, and other benefits designed to keep you happy and healthy both in and outside of the office.

At Wayne, we are committed to fostering a small, but dynamic team where every individual has a voice. Our culture is built around a relaxed, family-like atmosphere for our twenty-three employees. We value innovative ideas and are proud of our low turnover and long tenure, which averages 15 years. People join us and stay for a career.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Personal Lines Underwriter is a key member of the underwriting team, responsible for administering underwriting strategy and risk assessment for personal lines accounts within Wayne’s book of business. This role requires both technical underwriting expertise and ethical decision-making to support the company’s long-term success.

In this role a successful candidate manages a book of business within an assigned territory, providing support, training, and oversight to a group of independent agents contracted to represent the company. The primary function of the role is to review and place profitable risks with the organization through the application of underwriting guidelines. In doing so, the personal lines underwriter is expected to develop and maintain strong working relationships with agents, policyholders, and third-party stakeholders.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Underwriting & Risk Assessment

• Review and evaluate new business applications, assess risk acceptability, and determine appropriate coverage.
• Oversee underwriting policies and ensure alignment with company guidelines and risk appetite.

Decision-Making & Compliance

• Underwrite and approve new and renewal policies while ensuring compliance with company procedures and New York State Insurance Law.
• Manage policy cancellations and non-renewals in accordance with regulatory and company standards.

Customer & Agent Relations

• Provide clear communication regarding underwriting decisions and collaborate with agents on coverage, rates, and service-related matters.
• Maintain strong relationships with agents, policyholders, and stakeholders.

Financial & Operational Management

• Monitor and analyze loss ratios, underwriting profitability, and operational effectiveness.
• Works independently, managing multiple priorities under tight timeframes

Industry Expertise & Strategic Growth

• Support new product development by providing market insights and underwriting expertise where needed.

CULTURAL COMPETENCIES

• Innovation & Initiative: Approaches problems with curiosity and a willingness to take appropriate risks.
• Customer Orientation: Understands and responds to the needs of both internal and external customers.
• Communication: Presents ideas clearly and effectively, ensuring stakeholders are well-informed.
• Accountability & Reliability: Completes tasks accurately and on time, following through on commitments.
• Technical Competence: Applies industry knowledge to address challenges and opportunities.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Works effectively with others, respecting diverse perspectives.
• Drive for Results: Manages multiple projects, meets deadlines, and adapts to changing priorities.

LEADERSHIP

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Remain in a stationary position for extended periods.
• Operate a computer and other office equipment.
• Communicate and exchange information with team members and stakeholders.
• Observe details at close range.
• Safely operate a motor vehicle.

POSITION TYPE & HOURS

• This is a full-time, mid-level salaried position.
• Occasional long hours and weekend work may be required.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• A valid New York State Driver’s License is required
• Travel up to 10%, including overnight stays, may be required

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Associate’s Degree required; Bachelor’s degree is preferred
• Minimum of 3 years of underwriting experience or equivalent within Personal Lines property and casualty segment
• Progress towards, or completion of, CPCU or other professional insurance designation(s) is preferred
• Knowledge of NYS regional market conditions and industry trends is also desired

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Wayne Cooperative Insurance Company is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on age, creed, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, gender identity or expression, domestic violence victim status, disability, pregnancy-related condition, military status, favorably resolved arrest record, conviction record, predisposing genetic characteristics, familiar status, citizenship or immigration status, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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