What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Underwriter position at James Search Group?
Senior Underwriter – Ocean Marine – Global P&C Insurance Carrier (Manhattan, NY)
About the Opportunity:
James Search Group is partnering with a leading global property & casualty insurance carrier to identify a Senior Underwriter – Ocean Marine, based in Manhattan, New York. This role offers the opportunity to manage a significant portfolio of ocean marine business across Cargo, Hull & Machinery, and Marine Liability lines, while playing a key role in driving profitable growth and strengthening broker relationships.
This is a high-impact position within a well-capitalized, globally recognized insurer known for its underwriting discipline, technical expertise, and strong market reputation.
Compensation:
Base salary range: $125,000 – $175,000, commensurate with experience, plus annual bonus and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, PTO, and 401(k) with match.
Key Responsibilities:
- Take full ownership of a significant ocean marine portfolio, managing profitability, growth, retention, and overall performance
- Monitor key metrics including loss ratios, rate adequacy, and premium volume; make strategic underwriting decisions (renewals, non-renewals, modifications)
- Evaluate and underwrite complex risks across cargo, hull & machinery, and marine liability lines
- Develop pricing, terms, limits, and conditions in line with underwriting guidelines and authority levels
- Negotiate coverage, rates, and structures with brokers and clients to achieve balanced, profitable outcomes
- Build and maintain strong broker and client relationships; act as a primary point of contact for key accounts
- Drive new business production through proactive market engagement and cross-sell opportunities
- Track market trends, loss activity, and portfolio performance; contribute to underwriting strategy and enhancements
- Ensure compliance with underwriting standards, authority levels, and audit requirements
- Mentor and support junior underwriters, providing guidance on complex risks and deal structuring
Qualifications:
- 5–10 years of ocean marine production underwriting experience with progressive responsibility
- Strong technical expertise across marine cargo, hull & machinery, and liability coverages
- Proven ability to manage broker relationships and deliver profitable underwriting results
- Strong understanding of portfolio management and profit center objectives
- Excellent analytical, negotiation, and communication skills
- Bachelor’s degree preferred (or equivalent experience); industry designations such as CPCU or ARM are a plus
Why This Role?
This is an opportunity to join a top-tier global insurer and take ownership of a complex, high-value marine portfolio in a key market. You’ll have autonomy in underwriting decisions, strong broker visibility, and the ability to directly impact the growth of a strategically important business line within a collaborative, performance-driven environment.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
ames Search Group and our client are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants, and we encourage candidates of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply.
How to Apply:
If you’re interested in learning more about this opportunity or would like to apply confidentially, please contact James Search Group or submit your resume directly.
Salary : $125,000 - $175,000