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Job Title


Underwriting Specialist, Middle Market - Ottawa Region


Company : Zurich Canada


Location : Toronto, Ontario


Created : 2026-04-17


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Overview The Opportunity Are you looking for a caring, collaborative, values-driven workplace with inspiring teammates and leaders? Do you have the ambition and desire to be the best and thrive at the most impactful global insurance provider in the world? Look no further than Zurich Canada. If you have experience in underwriting and are looking for a new challenge, we would love to hear from you. Zurich Canada is currently looking for an Underwriting Specialist in the Ottawa region to drive profitable growth and deliver innovative risk solutions for our clients in the Canadian commercial insurance market. Reporting to the Underwriting Manager Ontario, you will analyze and underwrite new and renewal business, proactively engage with key brokers and customers, and provide expert solutions on complex accounts. Youll help develop strong client relationships, recommend leading-edge technical solutions, and contribute to process improvements. You will be key in ensuring high-quality service and supporting Zurichs values and business goals. This is a unique opportunity to build your knowledge and experience for the future in a supportive environment where your voice matters. This posting is for an existing vacancy. Zurich Canada uses artificial intelligenceenabled tools to support certain aspects of the recruitment process, including the initial review and screening of applications. Artificial intelligence is not the sole basis for candidate shortlisting or selection. All hiring decisions are reviewed and made by qualified hiring professionals. Note: As Zurich Canada does not currently have an office in the Ottawa region, this role will be remote. If an office is established in Ottawa in the future, the position will transition to a hybrid work model, requiring three days per week of in-person presence, which may include time in the office or market-facing engagements. Salary and Equity As part of our compensation approach, Zurich Canada is committed to pay equity. The salary range for this position is $100,000-$150,000. This range reflects the expected pay for the role across Canada and may vary depending on factors like office location, specific responsibilities, and individual qualifications. Zurich provides a reasonable compensation range in good faith as required by local law, but starting salaries may exceed this range based on a candidates skills and experience. What you will do Seek out and secure renewal and new account opportunities Assess opportunities with distributors and identify growth potential Qualify accounts against Zurichs appetite, balancing business potential Conduct purposeful agent/broker/customer meetings and onsite calls Negotiate terms and conditions to close deals Cross-sell other lines to increase account product density Participate in Sales Team meetings and collaborate on assigned territories Maintain accurate records of broker/client visits and account status Develop strong broker and client networks within underwritten industries Calculate target prices using underwriting tools, measure exposure, and analyze risk Initiate product development ideas and support training and development for staff Provide expertise on coverage issues with claims and underwriting guidelines Lead marketing presentations for new and existing agents/brokers Promote Zurichs products and services to increase agency penetration Manage projects and provide recommendations for innovative solutions Research and analyze data, trends, and best practices to support operational decisions Apply rating tools and methodologies to deliver tailored customer solutions Advise senior management on coverage and ensure accurate premium calculations Job Qualifications Required: High School Diploma or Equivalent and 5 or more years of experience in the Underwriting or Market Facing area High School Diploma or Equivalent and 10 or more years of experience in the Claims or Underwriting Support area Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice including an Associate Degree and 3 or more years of experience in the Underwriting Market Facing area Zurich Certified Insurance Apprentice including an Associate Degree and 8 or more years of experience in the Claims or Underwriting Support area Knowledge of Microsoft Office Experience working on time restraints for quotes on new and renewal business Experience working in a team environment Preferred Bachelors degree Advanced knowledge of underwriting philosophy, techniques, regulations, and guidelines Strong negotiation, communication, relationship-building, and presentation skills Ability to assess risk, deliver solutions, and function effectively in a team environment Demonstrated technical expertise and problem-solving abilities Industry-specific expertise in commercial lines underwriting Microsoft Office experience Note: The following sections include diversity, equity and inclusion information typical of the organization. If you require accommodations or accessibility considerations, Zurich will provide them upon request. Our Culture At Zurich, we are proud of our culture. We are passionate about Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging (DIEB). We want you to bring your whole self to work, and we want our employees to be reflective of the communities in which we live and work. Our DIEB initiatives are creating an environment where everyone feels welcome. We have a collaborative culture where diversity of thought is valued. We value your input and strive to give our employees the tools they need to make an impact. We care about our employees well-being and offer a comprehensive health/benefits plan with varying levels of coverage to suit your specific needs and a competitive total compensation package. We understand how important it is to rest, recharge and do the things you love. Zurich provides a minimum of four weeks of vacation per year. We also understand that employees require time off for personal reasons. Zurich employees receive four personal days per year to be used at their discretion. We are committed to continuous improvement and offer access to a comprehensive range of training and development opportunities. We care about our communities. Our communities are where our customers, people, and shareholders live and work. We contribute to society through our core business and by giving back with our talent, time and resources. We have won numerous awards for our workplace culture, including Greater Torontos Top Employers and Insurance Business Canadas 5-Star Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award. About Us Zurich Canada is part of the Zurich Insurance Group, a multi-line insurer with approximately 55,000 employees worldwide. Zurich Canada has been a leading insurance provider serving mid-sized and large companies in the Canadian commercial market for 100 years. With over 650 employees in offices across the country, Zurich offers global strength with local market knowledge. Zurich Canada aspires to be the premier partner for risk management professionals. #J-18808-Ljbffr