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Senior Inland Marine Underwriter

About Shepherd

Our mission is to create the first comprehensive platform that combines top-tier insurance offerings with world-class software so commercial businesses can manage risk and prevent losses. We’re starting with the $10T commercial construction industry.

Our thesis is that technology can solve the sustainability challenges facing commercial insurance, and to accomplish this we’re building a platform that incentivizes our clients to adopt the best tools when they buy our coverage. Across construction and other commercial markets, technology is available but fundamentally underutilized, despite the potential for improving loss outcomes and stopping this crisis.

To date, Shepherd has raised $20M+ from top tier VCs including Y-Combinator, Susa Ventures, Spark Capital, Costanoa Ventures, Era Ventures, Greenlight RE and Intact Ventures.

About You

We are seeking a motivated and eager Inland Marine Underwriter who's passionate about the future of insurance and eager to do the best work of their career. In this role, you'll be primarily responsible for evaluating, pricing, and underwriting complex inland marine risks and other construction lines, such as casualty, while maintaining profitability and adhering to company guidelines.

  • Adaptable: Thrives in a fast-paced, ambiguous startup environment.

  • Diligent: Self-motivated with a strong work ethic, capable of managing multiple tasks and projects.

  • Communicative: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills with high emotional intelligence.

  • Experienced: 3+ years in inland marine underwriting or a related insurance field.

  • Educated: Bachelor's degree or possesses equivalent experience.

  • Knowledgeable: In-depth understanding of inland marine and construction insurance products, including builders' risk, contractors' equipment, property, transportation, and casualty.

  • Production-Oriented: Demonstrated ability to position accounts and close deals with solid sales and marketing skills.

  • Analytical: Strong analytical and decision-making abilities.

  • Tech-Savvy: Proficient in underwriting systems and the Google/Microsoft Office suite.

  • Certified: CPCU, ARM, CRIS, or other relevant insurance designations (preferred).

  • Risk Modeling: Experience with risk modeling and pricing tools.

  • Innovative: Creative in developing new business opportunities and solutions.

  • Collaborative: Able to work effectively with all levels of customers and internal stakeholders, including claims and loss control teams.

About the Role

  • Business Development: Develop and negotiate pricing, coverage, terms, and conditions for new business and renewals while identifying target accounts that align with Shepherd's underwriting appetite.

  • Risk Assessment: Conduct thorough risk assessments and on-site inspections as necessary, leveraging technology and data to make informed underwriting decisions tailored to clients' needs across inland marine and construction lines, including casualty.

  • Collaboration: Work closely with claims, loss control, and other departments to ensure comprehensive risk management and maintain strong relationships with key brokers and clients.

  • Industry Insight: Stay informed about industry trends, emerging risks, and regulatory changes, contributing to the creation and refinement of underwriting guidelines and policies.

  • Portfolio Management: Manage a book of business to meet profitability and growth targets, mentoring junior underwriters and supporting team development.

  • Customer Engagement: Develop and maintain strong relationships with key brokers and clients, with up to 25% travel.

  • Detail-Oriented: Strong attention to detail and ability to analyze complex financial data.

  • Organized: Excellent time management and organizational skills with the ability to adapt to changing market conditions and emerging risks.

  • Problem Solver: Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

  • Compliance Proficiency: Knowledgeable in compliance, coverage, products, and pricing strategies with superior marketing skills.

Hiring Manager

Carl Feldhaus

Carl Feldhaus

Head of Inland Marine

Benefits and Perks

Premium Healthcare

100% contribution to top-tier health, dental, and vision

Unlimited PTO

Flexibility to take the time off, recharge, and perform

SF, NJ, or NYC Offices

Premium office space on both coasts with lunches provided

Professional Development

Access to premium coaching including leadership development

Location(s)

San Francisco / New York

Team

Insurance

Salary Range

$120,000 - $175,000

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