Underwriting Specialist, Construction and Engineering

Functional Area

Construction and Engineering Underwriting

Travel

As required

We are seeking an experienced, energetic, and market-facing Underwriting Specialist, Construction and Engineering to join our growing Specialty team in Canada. Reporting to the Head of Construction and Engineering, the successful candidate will bring 10+ years of relevant underwriting experience, strong technical expertise, commercial acumen, and a proven ability to drive profitable growth, manage complex Construction and Engineering risks, and build lasting broker and client relationships. Experience in Builder's Risk, Course of Construction, Contractors' Equipment, and related Construction and Engineering lines is strongly preferred.

About Us

HDI Global SE delivers a comprehensive service-based offering to the commercial and specialty insurance markets. Our strategy is to create sustainable growth and build a robust company that operates successfully worldwide. Our highly competent team is committed to delivering market-leading insurance solutions.

We are part of the Talanx Group, one of the major European insurance groups, with insurance revenue of EUR 49.0 billion (2025), and more than 120 years of experience in industrial insurance. HDI Global SE operates in more than 175 countries across the globe with over 5,500 employees worldwide. Financial strength ratings: AM Best A+ (Stable), Standard & Poor’s AA- (Very Strong, Outlook Stable).

At HDI, we offer employees the advantages of an international organization within a modern, dynamic work environment in the heart of downtown Toronto that both challenges and rewards. We foster strong internal and external communication and achieve our objectives through our core values of Together, Ownership, and Performance. Employees are encouraged to contribute their ideas and play an active role in shaping the future of our company.

Your Responsibilities

• Underwrite and manage a profitable portfolio of new and renewal Construction and Engineering business, achieving growth, retention, and new business targets within established underwriting guidelines, authority levels, and risk appetite.
• Develop customized insurance solutions and negotiate coverage, terms, and pricing for complex risks.
• Expand broker, client, and business partner relationships to strengthen market access and identify, develop, and convert profitable new business opportunities through targeted engagement, presentations, industry events, and networking.
• Collaborate with management, Sales and Distribution, and head office to execute underwriting and marketing strategies that increase HDI’s visibility and market presence in the Canadian Construction and Engineering sector.
• Monitor market trends, emerging risks, broker needs, and competitor activity to inform underwriting, pricing, and business-development strategies.
• Maintain disciplined portfolio governance by ensuring underwriting transactions, documentation, service standards, and regulatory requirements are managed accurately and consistently.
• Act as a technical authority for Construction and Engineering underwriting, mentor and develop junior underwriters and team members, and represent HDI with brokers, clients, and industry stakeholders.

Your Profile (Skills, Qualifications & Experience)

• 10+ years of experience underwriting Construction and Engineering risks.
• Strong technical knowledge of Construction and Engineering insurance products, policy wordings, and underwriting practices.
• Proven ability to assess complex risks and develop creative, client-focused solutions.
• Proven market presence and a strong network of broker and industry relationships, with a track record of identifying and converting profitable new business opportunities.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent; insurance designation (e.g., CIP, FCIP, CRM) is an asset.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, problem-solving, and commercial decision-making skills.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and relevant underwriting systems.
• Self-motivated team player with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• French and/or German language skills are considered an asset.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary range of $150,000-$170,000
• Competitive total rewards package and professional development support
• Flexible Working Hours
• International Network
• Hybrid Work Environmnet
• Employer-Matched RRSP Contributions
• Competitive Time Off Policy
• External Education & Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Comprehensive Health & Dental Benefits
• Employee Share Purchase Program

Privacy

Visit: https://www.hdi.global/en-ca/legal/privacy for information on how we may collect, use or disclose your personal information.

Accessibility

HDI Canada Branch welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

We welcome applications from motivated, team-oriented individuals who are eager to take on new challenges.

Thank you to all applicants for their interest. Please note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.