AVP General Liability Western Region Team Lead at Golden Bear Insurance Company in Stockton, California

Job Description:

Golden Bear Insurance Company is a leading provider of Excess & Surplus (E&S) insurance solutions, specializing in complex, high-risk commercial accounts. Our dedicated team of underwriting professionals delivers customized coverage solutions across a broad range of industries. We pride ourselves on our entrepreneurial spirit, expertise, and commitment to service excellence.

About the Role
We are seeking an experienced AVP - Western Territory, Primary Casualty Insurance Underwriting Manager and Team Lead to oversee underwriting operations for our Western Territory. This leadership role will focus on managing a team of underwriters, driving profitability, and expanding our book of business in the region. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in E&S primary casualty underwriting, extensive broker relationships, and a proven ability to lead high-performing teams.

Responsibilities

Underwriting Leadership: Oversee and manage a team of primary casualty underwriters, ensuring adherence to underwriting guidelines and profitability objectives.
Portfolio Management: Develop and execute underwriting strategies to grow and maintain a profitable book of business in the Western Territory.
Broker Relationships: Cultivate and strengthen relationships with wholesale brokers, fostering long-term partnerships and driving new business opportunities.
Risk Assessment: Evaluate complex risks, set pricing strategies, and ensure appropriate risk selection in accordance with company guidelines.
Team Development: Mentor and train underwriters, fostering a collaborative and results-driven culture.
Market Intelligence: Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and regulatory developments to identify new opportunities and emerging risks.
Operational Excellence: Work closely with senior leadership to optimize underwriting processes, improve efficiency, and enhance service standards.

Qualifications

Experience: Minimum 10+ years of E&S commercial primary casualty underwriting experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
Industry Knowledge: Strong expertise in general liability, products liability, and other primary casualty coverages for high-hazard risks.
Broker Relationships: Established network of wholesale brokers in the Southern Territory.
Leadership Skills: Demonstrated experience managing, coaching, and developing underwriting teams.
Analytical & Decision-Making: Strong risk assessment, pricing, and negotiation skills.
Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and execute business plans to achieve growth and profitability goals.
Education: Bachelor's degree in business, finance, insurance, or a related field; CPCU, CIC, or other industry designations are a plus.

Pay range $160,000 - $180,000 + Bonus
Competitive compensation package with performance-based incentives.
Comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
401(k) with company match.
Professional development opportunities.
Collaborative and entrepreneurial company culture.

Equal Opportunity Statement
Golden Bear Insurance Company is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds.

How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their resume and a brief cover letter to Yvonne.Hall@GoldenBear.com