Underwriting Manager

About CK Specialty Insurance Associates CK Specialty Insurance Associates is a rapidly growing, independently owned wholesale insurance brokerage committed to providing innovative and customized insurance solutions to retail agents and brokers across the country. Founded with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, CK Specialty was built on the foundation of speed, service, and partnership with our retail agents. Traits that remain at the core of everything we do. Since our inception in 1998, we have grown into a respected name in the Excess & Surplus (E&S) marketplace. We focus on a wide range of commercial and personal lines, offering access to top-rated carriers and niche products that meet the unique needs of today’s insurance buyers. At CK Specialty, we operate with a 120% mentality; always going above and beyond in how we serve our clients, partners, and each other. We value precision, reliability, organization, and speed, which is why our team lives by the acronym PROS. We’re a company for self-starters, problem-solvers, and professionals who want to be part of something fast-moving and impactful. Why Join CK Specialty? Supportive, high-energy team culture Room for growth and career development in a fast-scaling company Strong leadership that invests in training and development A voice at the table - your ideas matter here Whether you’re new to the insurance industry or bringing years of experience, CK Specialty is a place where your contributions can make a real difference. We're proud of our track record, but even more excited about what's ahead. What You'll be Doing We are a fast-growing startup in the insurance space, currently experiencing rapid expansion and unprecedented opportunity. While our foundation is strong, we are still in the process of building out the operational structure, systems, and procedures that will sustain long-term success. We are looking for a highly skilled, hands-on Underwriting Manager to step in and take on a significant portion of these responsibilities, and to focus on strategic growth and high-level initiatives. This is a newly created role designed for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, high-growth environment, is comfortable building processes from the ground up, and can establish best practices where none currently exist. The ideal candidate will combine deep technical underwriting expertise with strong leadership skills, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a relentless drive for excellence. They will be instrumental in creating the operational foundation, mentoring the team, and ensuring that our growth is matched with the highest standards of quality, accuracy, and client experience. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Team Development Coach, develop, and inspire production staff using EOS methodology, providing direct, hands-on guidance to elevate skills and performance. Create and implement comprehensive training programs that sharpen technical expertise and ensure consistent, high-quality output. Develop and refine KPIs and performance measurement tools to hold the team accountable to measurable results. Foster a culture of entrepreneurship, growth, and accountability, setting a high bar for precision and excellence. Operational Excellence Partner with the Operations Manager to establish and maintain standard operating procedures, proactively identifying and implementing process improvements. Be deeply engaged in the day-to-day technical aspects of underwriting and operations, leveraging a strong technical foundation to solve problems quickly and effectively. Ensure strict adherence to best practices, with an unrelenting focus on accuracy, timeliness, and perfection in deliverables. Market Engagement & Growth Maintain a strong, up-to-date understanding of commercial carriers, market conditions, and underwriting trends to stay competitive and innovative. Actively participate in underwriting and brokering to stay market-relevant, model best practices, and directly drive business growth. Retain at least 95% of key retail agencies while onboarding a minimum of 10 new agencies monthly, using both relationship-building and data-driven targeting strategies. Personal Contribution & Standards of Excellence Maintain a modest book of business to build credibility, strengthen key relationships, and lead by example. Be relentless in pursuing improvements, identifying inefficiencies, and implementing solutions that enhance quality and productivity. Operate with a high sense of urgency and precision, setting the tone for a team that values thoroughness, technical accuracy, and continuous improvement. Ideal Candidate Traits Highly technically knowledgeable with a deep understanding of underwriting principles, processes, and compliance requirements. Hands-on leader willing to roll up their sleeves and engage directly in work alongside the team. Persistent and detail-obsessed, with a healthy sense of urgency and “high anxiety” for perfection. Innovative problem solver who is energized by challenges and driven to continuously raise the standard. Requirements Experience 3–5 years in commercial lines underwriting (excess and surplus lines required). 3-5 years in brokering - specifically in excess and surplus lines. 3–5 years of management experience in a fast-paced environment. 1–2 years of experience developing training programs, processes, and KPIs. Skills Strong verbal and written communication. Proficient computer and organizational skills. Decision-making, critical thinking, and adaptability. Positive attitude and commitment to personal growth. Certifications Property and Casualty Insurance license required. Benefits 401(k) Health, Dental, Vision, and Disability Insurance Paid Time Off (PTO) and Parental Leave Flexible, remote work environment Ready to join a fast-growing company and build a successful career in the insurance industry? Apply now to become part of our dream team!