Underwriting Manager

Modern Woodmen of America is seeking a dynamic leader for our Underwriting department. The Underwriting Manager reports to the director of operations and plays a critical role in overseeing the evaluation and acceptance of life insurance and annuity applications, ensuring risks are assessed accurately and certificates are underwritten in accordance with Modern Woodmen's guidelines and regulations. Key responsibilities include staying abreast of market trends and adjusting strategies to maintain our competitive edge. If you excel in communication and collaboration, and are passionate about leading a team to success, this position is perfect for you!

Modern Woodmen of America is one of the nation's largest fraternal benefit societies, with assets over $18 billion. Fraternals are unique membership organizations with peculiar names that pair the "member-owned" characteristic of a mutual insurance company with the "social mission" characteristic of a service organization. They unite individuals with common bonds, provide a variety of life insurance and investment products, and form one of the nation's most effective volunteer networks.

Responsibilities:

• Manage the daily operations and workflow of the department to ensure efficient, timely, and accurate processing of all the work within the department.
• Motivate and guide a team of underwriters and analysts towards achieving high-quality outcomes with a focus on customer service for our members and field representatives.
• Collaborate with our field force to understand market trends and member needs.
• Support employee professional development by ensuring the presence of appropriate training and development opportunities. Challenge others to develop as leaders while serving as a role model and mentor.
• Ensure the proper systems, procedures, measurements and quality control standards are in place for the department's responsibilities. Review and evaluate the department's processes, recommend and implement appropriate changes.
• Develop policies and procedures to monitor the completeness and accuracy of the application processes and required associated documents.
• Participate in underwriting audits to ensure adherence to standards.
• Communicate with senior management regarding underwriting results and trends.
• Create and maintain a working relationship with our reinsurers and consult with the Actuarial department on reinsurance practices. Recommend appropriate underwriting adjustments.
• Consult with the Chief Medical Director and Principal Underwriter on aspects of medical underwriting which may be considered for implementation, change or updating.
• Prepare detailed reports on underwriting activities and performance metrics.
• Comply with and support Modern Woodmen of America's policies and procedures.
• Communicate openly and maintain rapport with colleagues, staff and the Field. Keep Director informed of progress, issues, problems and successes.
• Develop and maintain a positive and professional work environment.
• Maintain discipline, resolve problems, determine performance and recommend promotions, transfers or dismissals.

What we need:

• Bachelor's degree in business, insurance or related field. 8+ years of related experience, preferably in leadership and life insurance.
• Designations and certifications: LOMA Fellowship. Ability to obtain appropriate FINRA securities licenses as needed.
• Excellent interpersonal, analytical, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Organize and prioritize daily tasks while working independently.
• Anticipate and provide solutions to complex issues.
• Define expectations and make decisions.
• Lead others with purpose and clear direction.

What we offer:

• Pay: The annual pay range for this position is $110,000-$125,000. The specific rate will depend on the successful candidate's qualifications and prior experience.
• Work Arrangements: This is a full-time office-focused position: 37.5 hours per week (7.5 hours per day), Monday- Friday, with flexible start time between 7 a.m.-9 a.m. Office focused positions work on-site due to the nature of the work and have limited remote days.
• Stability: Modern Woodmen has been Modern Since 1883 and exists for our members. We make long-term decisions that provide stability to our employees, financial representatives, and members.
• Respect for personal time: We offer vacation, sick leave and 11 paid holidays. We value your time outside of work and offer careers that blend work and life well.
• Professional growth: Benefit from our commitment to employee development which includes educational offerings to enhance your knowledge of our industry.
• Great culture: We build strong working relationships across our organization through collaborative work and volunteer opportunities.
• A beautiful office: Enjoy a beautiful view! Our home office, located in downtown Rock Island, IL, has a lovely plaza overlooking the Mississippi River.
• On-site caf: Our employees can purchase a variety of breakfast, lunch, and beverage options at Caf 1883.
• A thriving local community: Not from the Quad Cities and hesitant to consider relocation? Give it some thought. The Quad Cities offers an idyllic Midwestern lifestyle along the mighty Mississippi and consistently ranks at the top of the list for quality of life and cost of living. It's home to more than our share of artists, festivals, and fun in every season.
• Exceptional benefits: Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support your health and financial well-being. Benefits include:
  
  • Company-paid retirement plan
  • Matching 401(k) plan
  • Employee Impact Bonus
  • Medical, dental and prescription drug insurance. We pay 100% of employees' health insurance premium and 50% of employee dependents' premiums.
  • Group term life insurance
  • Long-term and short-term disability.
  • Voluntary benefits: vision, flexible savings accounts (FSA), accident insurance

Modern Woodmen is an equal opportunity employer. Modern Woodmen is committed to providing a respectful environment where each person's diverse opinions, attitudes, attributes, and feelings are respected.