Key skills
- Commercial and specialty insurance underwriting expertise
- P&L management and financial analysis
- Sales leadership and business development strategy
- Team building, recruitment, and talent retention
- Risk assessment and underwriting technical knowledge
- Client relationship and account management
- Insurance market trends and competitive intelligence
Frequently asked questions
What does a VP of Commercial Insurance do day-to-day?
A VP of Commercial Insurance oversees underwriting operations, manages profit and loss performance, and leads a team of underwriters and account managers. Daily responsibilities include reviewing underwriting submissions, making strategic decisions on risk acceptance, mentoring team members, developing new business relationships, analyzing market data, and ensuring compliance with underwriting guidelines and regulations. They balance profitability with sound risk management while driving revenue growth across their portfolio.
What experience and certifications should I look for in a candidate?
Strong candidates typically have 8-12+ years in commercial or specialty insurance, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role. Look for an Associate in Commercial Underwriting (AU), Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), or similar industry designations. They should demonstrate proven underwriting acumen, successful profit and loss management, a track record of growing premium volume, and evidence of building and motivating high-performing teams. MBA or advanced business credentials are often preferred but not always required.
What are the key responsibilities of this role?
Core responsibilities include managing underwriting strategy and profitability for a line of business or geographic region, leading and developing direct reports, establishing underwriting guidelines, cultivating broker and client relationships, identifying market opportunities, and reporting to senior management on performance metrics. VPs also stay current on regulatory changes, market conditions, and emerging risks, while contributing to strategic planning for growth and operational efficiency.
How can a staffing firm help me hire a VP of Commercial Insurance?
ECLARO specializes in identifying and placing experienced insurance leaders who match your specific needs, whether you need someone permanently or as an interim solution. We maintain a network of vetted commercial insurance professionals, screen candidates thoroughly for underwriting expertise and leadership capability, and handle the entire recruitment process so your team can focus on operations. We also understand insurance market dynamics and can advise on competitive compensation and the current talent landscape.
Ways to hire through ECLARO
ECLARO can fill this role through contract or contract-to-hire staffing, direct placement, an Employer of Record (EOR), recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), or a dedicated offshore team in the Philippines (ECAPTIVE).