What are the responsibilities and job description for the E&S Underwriter position at SIAA Xchange?
Company Overview
SIAA Xchange, LLC (“Xchange”) was created to unlock smarter, faster, and more profitable access to over $17 billion in premium controlled by the SIAA network. As the embedded MGA and wholesale platform aligned with SIAA, we are more than just a distribution partner, we are building the infrastructure that transforms how carriers connect to the largest network of independent agencies in the country.
Our goal is to provide markets with a direct, trusted, and efficient channel to profitable premium by solving real challenges agents face when placing business. The E&S Underwriter plays a key role in this mission by driving profitable underwriting performance and facilitating smooth placement for our agency partners.
Position Overview
As the E&S Underwriter on Xchange’s embedded MGA/wholesale platform, you will underwrite, price, and bind profitable commercial accounts under delegated authority. You’ll manage a portfolio sourced from SIAA’s $17B network, working across multiple programs – from digital to traditional wholesale – to achieve profitable growth.
In this role, you will serve as the primary contact for assigned agents, providing technical guidance and ensuring efficient placement of new and renewal business. You will also collaborate with carrier and program partners to meet key performance targets including quote turnaround time, hit ratio, rate adequacy, and loss ratio. This position reports to the Underwriting Manager.
Key Responsibilities
Underwriting & Risk Evaluation
- Evaluate, price, and bind new and renewal accounts within delegated authority; ensuring adherence to underwriting guidelines and appetite.
- Review submissions, analyze risk characteristics, apply sound underwriting judgement to achieve targeted profitability and rate adequacy.
- Escalate referrals appropriately and collaborate with senior underwriters or carrier partners as needed.
Portfolio Management & Performance
- Manage a profitable book of business, meeting or exceeding established KPIs such as hit ratio, retention, rate targe4ts, and loss ratio.
- Monitor account performance and take corrective action on underperforming segments.
- Maintain audit-ready file and ensure all underwriting documentation is accurate, complete, and compliant.
Agency & Distribution Management
- Serve as a key contact for agents, providing responsive communication and technical underwriting guidance.
- Conduct appetite discussions, review submission requirements, and assist agencies with risk placement strategy.
- Strengthen relationships with agency partners to drive retention and growth of quality business.
Operational Excellence & Collaboration
- Leverage data and technology tools to enhance underwriting efficiency and reduce rework.
- Partner closely with operations, technology, and carrier teams to maintain service standards and process consistency.
- Participate in process improvement initiatives and share insights to improve workflows and underwriting quality.
Additional Duties
- Support special projects, audits, and other underwriting initiatives as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- 2-3 years of E&S binding authority or MGA underwriting experience
- Contract binding and wholesale distribution experience strongly preferred
- Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills
- Strong analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities
- Technologically savvy and data driven
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and insurance platforms (MGA Systems/IMS preferred)
Location & Travel
- This role offers flexibility and may be remote, hybrid, or onsite, depending on candidate location and business needs.
- Occasional travel for meetings, training or audits may be required (up to 20%).
SIAA Xchange is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants will receive considerations for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, veteran status, and any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local anti-discrimination laws.
SIAA Xchange participates in E-Verify.