What are the responsibilities and job description for the Commercial Lines Manager position at Varney Agency?
Description
The Property & Casualty (P&C) Commercial Lines Manager is a pivotal role at Varney Agency, responsible for leading our commercial lines operations. This position ensures exceptional client service, timely renewals, and adherence to industry standards. The manager will oversee a team of account managers, foster strong relationships with carriers, and support the sales team in driving growth and retention. While not directly responsible for producers, the manager will collaborate closely with them to support new business, renewals, and ongoing service needs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Renewal & Retention Management: Oversee the complete renewal process including coverage review, upselling/rounding, marketing, quoting and proactive client communication
- Team Leadership & Development: Lead, coach and mentor the Commercial Lines service team; provide training and career development; cultivate a culture of accountability, collaboration and development; assist in recruiting, onboarding and succession plan for the department.
- Carrier Relationship Management: Maintain strong relationships with carrier marketing representatives and underwriters; advocate for client needs and resolve service issues efficiently; negotiate favorable terms and placements for complex or high-value accounts.
- Strategic Planning & Business Development: Contribute to agency growth; collaborate with leadership on business planning and budgeting for CL department.
- Client Relationship Management: Serve as an escalation point for complex or high-value client issues; conduct client reviews; partner with business producers to deliver a seamless client experience.
- Process & Compliance Oversight: Ensure team adheres to agency workflows, procedures and regulatory requirements; manage E&O exposure with quality control and compliance audits; implement corrective actions and improvements based on audits.
- Technology & Systems Optimization: Recommend improvements to agency management systems and digital tools; ensure data integrity and reporting accuracy with CL systems.
- Interdepartmental Collaboration: Coordinate with personal lines, claims, and finance departments to ensure seamless service delivery; act as a liaison between service and sales teams to align priorities and resolve conflicts.
Requirements
- Insurance Expertise: Strong understanding of commercial P&C coverages, endorsements, and underwriting practices.
- Leadership: Proven ability to motivate, coach, and hold team members accountable.
- Organization & Time Management: Skilled in prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines.
- Negotiation & Relationship Building: Effective communicator with carriers and clients.
- Analytical Thinking: Quick and accurate problem-solving for coverage and service issues.
- Technology Proficiency: Comfortable with agency management systems and digital tools.
- Mobility & Flexibility: Ability to travel regularly between agency offices.
Preferred Qualifications:
- 5 years of experience in commercial lines insurance, including 2 years in a leadership role.
- Professional designations such as CIC, CPCU, or ARM are preferred.
- Proficiency in agency management systems, preferably EPIC and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel around Maine frequently.