What do they do?

An Underwriter reviews applications for insurance submitted by a broker or agent evaluates the risk involved, and on behalf of the insurance company determines whether to accept or reject the business (the risk) and at what price.

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Why is it important?

Underwriters play a key role in driving insurance companies’ growth and profitability – without risks to underwrite, there is no business! The role comes with significant responsibility because deciding what should be covered and how much to charge can directly impact (both positively and negatively) the company’s financial health. Improperly placed risks can have debilitating consequences, so it is critical that the Underwriter is thorough in analyzing and understanding the risk.

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Typical Duties

• Develop and maintain relationships with brokers and agents to garner business.

• Review applications for insurance, evaluate the potential risk.

• Analyze company records to understand exposures and degree of risk.

• Work with actuaries to model the risk and determine viability and pricing.

• Determine available insurance products.

• Evaluate past losses and the possibility of future losses due to catastrophe.

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Required Skills ​​

• Problem Solving

• Good Judgment and Decision Making

• Analytical and Critical Thinking

• Time Management

• Active Listening

• Negotiation

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Career Facts​​

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• Education and Professional Requirements:

  • Entry-level: Bachelor’s degree, related work experience or training program.

  • Advancement: Bachelor’s degree, multiple years of work experience, industry certifications.​

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Possible career path: Underwriting Trainee > Junior Underwriter > Senior Underwriter > Underwriting Manager

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Additional Resources

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• References​​

  • OII Underwriter Profile

  • InVEST Underwriter Profile

  • Inland Marine Underwriters Association Underwriter Overview

  • Surety and Fidelity Association Underwriter Overview, Testimonials

  • US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook

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• Videos

  • Meet an Underwriter

  • Inland Marine Underwriters Association Career Path Video

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• Designations/Certifications/Exams​

  • The National Alliance: University Associate Program, Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR)

  • The Institutes: Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Associate in Risk Management (ARM)

  • Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America: Management Liability Insurance Specialist (MLIS)

  • Professional Liability Underwriting Society: Registered Professional Liability Underwriter (RPLU)

  • Insurance Institute of Canada’s Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP)​​

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