Rated Best Places to Work 2020 by Business Insurance, Continental Western Group is a regional property casualty insurance company offering commercial products and services through independent agents in the Midwest. CWG provides unique value through the service provided by our experienced group of employees and independent agents. Since 1886 - Strong, Local and Trusted.
As a Berkley company, we enjoy operational flexibility that allows us to deliver quality coverage solutions. W. R. Berkley Corporation, and all member insurance companies, are rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company, and carry Standard & Poor’s Financial Rating of A+ (Strong). #LI-AV1 #LI-Remote
This position can be located in our headquarters in Urbandale, IA. We'd also be open to a fully remote colleague but must live in MN, WI or IL state.
The Company is an equal employment opportunity employer.
ResponsibilitiesThe Business Development Manager is accountable for providing direction and leadership for the regional agency/field operation. Partners with regional management team to ensure effective marketing, planning and execution resulting in retention, growth and profitability of business. Leads and influences agencies through creation and execution of sales strategies that drive new sales, profit and retention. Identifies new distribution opportunities and recommends agency appointments, while increasing relevancy in existing agencies.
What you can expect:
Culture of innovation, teamwork, supportive colleagues and leaders willing to invest in talentInternal mobility opportunities Visibility to senior leaders and partnership with cross functional teamsOpportunity to impact changeBenefits – competitive compensation, paid time off, comprehensive wellness benefits and programs, employer funded health savings account, profit sharing, 401k, paid parental leave, employee stock purchase plan, tuition assistance and professional continuing educationWe'll count on you to:
Serve as primary relationship, sales and business development leader for the region. Travel to enhance relationships with agencies and accounts resulting in business retention and new business opportunities. Collaborate with Sales staff in establishing new customer relationships and to identify, research, and develop sales opportunities. Drive the sales processes including prospect prioritization, initial contact and pursuit strategy, identification of opportunity, due diligence and overall management of new customer acquisition. Work with regional Underwriting Managers and Regional VP to manage regional book of business and identifies market opportunities by analyzing competitor intelligence, market and industry research, loss ratios, mix of business, policy count, premium growth, hit ratios and business retention.Develop, maintain and enhance customer relationship related to profit improvement and RMS compliance. Use resources available to build pipeline of new customer leads in conjunction with Key agency partners.Ensure that tools, training and support are in place to positively impact success for the agencies and region. Identify and communicate training needs and opportunities. Participate in program and product orientation meetings in conjunction with internal business partners including but is not limited to Underwriting, Risk Services, Actuary, Sales, and Claims.Participate in the company’s sales, distribution, and operational planning process where current-year objectives are reviewed and future-years' objectives are developed. Align regional business objectives to support organizational goals of optimized profitability, managed growth and competitive advantage. Collaborate with regional Underwriting Manager and Regional VP to establish and manage budgets and resources including explaining variances and related reporting. QualificationsWhat you need to have:
Bachelor's degree; five years industry experience in field-facing and/or leadership roles and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experienceComprehensive knowledge and understanding of small and middle market insurance products and coveragesMarketing experienceExperience growing a business or portfolio of clientsExperience negotiating price, terms, and requirementsA valid driver’s license with safe driving record are requiredAccount relationship management skillsWorks effectively with all levels and can easily build new relationshipsDemonstrated critical thinking, problem analysis, and problem resolution skills at both a strategic and functional levelExcellent verbal and written communication skillsModerate travel will be required (up to 50%)Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel and OutlookWhat makes you stand out:
Demonstrated ability to lead people and influence others to achieve resultsAbility to think ahead and plan over a 2-3 year time spanEffective organizational, multi-tasking, and prioritizing skillsExperience attracting, coaching and developing talent Ability to work outside normal work schedule to fulfill responsibilitiesCompletion of or working toward CIC, AIM, CPCU or similar designationAdditional Company Details We do not accept any unsolicited resumes from external recruiting agencies or firms.
The company offers a competitive compensation plan and robust benefits package for full time regular employees.
The actual salary for this position will be determined by a number of factors, including the scope, complexity and location of the role; the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate; and other conditions of employment. Sponsorship Details Sponsorship not Offered for this Role Connect With Us! Not ready to apply? Connect with us for general consideration.