Underwriting Manager | Financial Lines | Sydney

Our client is a market-leading insurer with a commercial franchise built on deep broker relationships, technical underwriting and consistent capital backing. They are looking for a Financial Lines Underwriting Manager to lead their Sydney team and take ownership of a core part of the commercial portfolio.

The market

Financial lines remains one of the more demanding classes in the Australian commercial market. Competition for quality risks has kept rates under pressure in a number of lines, while the exposures themselves have not eased. Regulatory scrutiny, shareholder and class action activity, and cyber and operational resilience risks continue to shape how risks are assessed and priced. Insurers with a clear view of their appetite and the technical depth to hold to it are in a strong position. This role sits at the centre of that.

The role

• Lead, coach and develop a team of underwriters, setting standards for technical quality, referral discipline and broker service
• Take responsibility for the profitability and growth of a defined financial lines portfolio, which may include D&O, professional indemnity, management liability and related classes
• Underwrite complex and larger accounts directly, using your authority to price, structure and negotiate terms
• Build and maintain senior relationships with brokers, balancing responsiveness with underwriting rigour
• Work with actuarial, claims, reinsurance and distribution on portfolio strategy, pricing and capacity
• Contribute to the leadership of the commercial team and to the wider business plan, including emerging risk and regulatory change

About you

• A strong track record in financial lines underwriting, with a number of years of experience in senior underwriter or team leadership roles
• Technical depth across D&O and PI, with an understanding of the legal, regulatory and claims environment
• Experience leading or mentoring people, or a clear ability to step into that responsibility
• Credibility with brokers and the commercial judgement to know when to hold a position and when to move
• Relevant qualifications, such as ANZIIF or CPIU, are valued

What is on offer

A senior leadership position with genuine portfolio responsibility, a seasoned team and the support of a well-capitalised market leader. Remuneration will reflect experience and the seniority of the role, with salary range / package details to be confirmed. The business offers flexible working in line with its hybrid model, together with the standard benefits and development you would expect from a major insurer.

To apply or to have a confidential conversation, please contact David Elliott at Blake Oliver using delliott@blakeoliver.com.au.