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Director, Underwriting Research- Operations

Why USAA?

At USAA, our mission is to empower our members to achieve financial security through highly competitive products, exceptional service and trusted advice. We seek to be the #1 choice for the military community and their families.

Embrace a fulfilling career at USAA, where our core values – honesty, integrity, loyalty and service – define how we treat each other and our members. Be part of what truly makes us special and impactful.

The Opportunity

As a dedicated Director, Underwriting Research - Operations , you will be responsible for Managing a team of managers and insurance professionals in planning, developing, and executing of frontline underwriting work which supports both corporate and P&C operational performance objectives. Ensures the evolution of the front-line underwriter role.

We offer a flexible work environment that requires an individual to be in the office 4 days per week. This position must work hybrid to any of our regional office locations: San Antonio, TX, Phoenix, AZ, Colorado Springs, CO, Tampa Campus, FL, Plano Legacy, TX, Chesapeake, VA, or Charlotte, NC. Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

What you’ll do:

  • Manages an organization of frontline underwriters. 
  • Directs the identification, analysis, development, and implementation of complex initiatives that maintain the relevance and integrity of our underwriting policies, processes and programs while balancing operational efficiency, competitiveness, and regulatory compliance. Implementation may include overseeing business configuration efforts, including testing and deployment.
  • Directs the development, maintenance and optimization of existing processes and systems to comply with legal and company requirements while delivering maximum ROI.
  • Ensures adherence to established policies and effective program support.
  • Manages identification and implementation of opportunities to improve processes and systems to increase member conductivity, employee experience, risk mitigation, and operational efficiency.
  • Directs the oversight of P&C Underwriting supplier programs leveraging available products to improve risk management and operational efficiency.
  • Collaborates cross-functionally to identify/implement P&C Underwriting requirements for new products, services, and data.
  • Stays abreast of emerging technology and external factors that may present opportunities for P&C Underwriting. Includes evaluating industry solutions for application to products, programs and processes. Develops business cases and business requirements for identified solutions.
  • Directs and oversees multiple initiatives in support of Underwriting and/or regulatory compliance related initiatives including but not limited to: oversight of procedures/process, accurate regulatory reporting and filing, document governance, risk control self-assessments, procedure governance, control design, new product controls, CoSA Third Party Governance, or quality governance.
  • Leads planning for highly complex processes including problem definition, evaluation of requirements, design, testing, and implementation of business processes. Understands the process operating objectives, business rules, performance requirements, risks, and controls and interactions between dependent processes to minimize failures, eliminate redundancies, and control process performance necessary to achieve efficient, effective design and execution of the process.
  • Applies and maintains expert knowledge of the business and manages ongoing alignment and development of business deliverable processes and capabilities with business needs to materially change and improve business performance.
  • Guides and influences process re-engineering and technology implementation to enable process redesign and innovation. Leads the overall management of process performance by developing control limits, monitoring key performance indicators, and informing stakeholders of any deficiencies, improvements, operational risks issues, etc. and drives collaborative efforts to ensure process delivers against requirements.
  • Builds and oversees a team of employees for assigned functional area through ongoing execution of recruiting, development, retention, coaching and support, performance management, and managerial activities.
  • Ensures risks associated with business activities are effectively identified, measured, monitored, and controlled in accordance with risk and compliance policies and procedures.

What you’ll have:

  • Bachelor’s Degree: OR 4 years of related experience (in addition to the minimum years of experience required) may be substituted in lieu of degree.
  • 8 years of experience in Property & Casualty, Project Management, Process Engineering, Business Process or Risk Management, to include direct experience executing underwriting processes and/or defining underwriting procedures.
  • 3 years of direct team lead or management experience.
  • Advanced knowledge of relevant industry practices, trends, and regulatory requirements.
  • Experience reviewing policies and procedures documents and identifying and articulating the risks and opportunities.
  • Proven skills in developing strong relationships with peers and business stakeholders and collaborating across the organization.
  • Advanced experience in developing and presenting analysis and findings to senior levels of management and key stakeholders to gather support for business initiatives and influence strategy.
  • Advanced proficiency using Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and/or Access.

What sets you apart:

  • Expertise in management systems.
  • Expertise in production environments.
  • Ability to navigate and influence at all levels of the organization.

The above description reflects the details considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job and should not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be performed in the job.

What we offer :

Compensation: The salary range for this position is: $127,310-$243,340.

Compensation: USAA has an effective process for assessing market data and establishing ranges to ensure we remain competitive. You are paid within the salary range based on your experience and market data of the position. The actual salary for this role may vary by location.

 

Employees may be eligible for pay incentives based on overall corporate and individual performance and at the discretion of the USAA Board of Directors.

The above description reflects the details considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job and should not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be performed in the job.

 

Benefits: At USAA our employees enjoy best-in-class benefits to support their physical, financial, and emotional wellness. These benefits include comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans, 401(k), pension, life insurance, parental benefits, adoption assistance, paid time off program with paid holidays plus 16 paid volunteer hours, and various wellness programs. Additionally, our career path planning and continuing education assists employees with their professional goals.

 

For more details on our outstanding benefits, visit our benefits page on USAAjobs.com.

Applications for this position are accepted on an ongoing basis, this posting will remain open until the position is filled. Thus, interested candidates are encouraged to apply the same day they view this posting.

 

USAA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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Average salary estimate

$185325 / YEARLY (est.)
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$127310K
$243340K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Director, Underwriting Research- Operations, USAA

Are you ready to take your career to new heights? USAA is looking for a talented Director, Underwriting Research - Operations to step into a pivotal role that makes a real impact on our organization. Located in the vibrant areas of Colorado Springs or any of our regional offices, you'll lead a dynamic team of managers and insurance professionals as we aim to deliver exceptional underwriting services to our military community and their families. Here at USAA, we pride ourselves on our core values of honesty, integrity, loyalty, and service. Your role will be at the forefront of planning, developing, and executing frontline underwriting work, where you'll directly influence our operational performance objectives. As part of this position, you’ll manage initiatives that uphold our underwriting policies, ensuring they remain relevant and efficient, all while maintaining regulatory compliance. Collaboration is key as you work cross-functionally to develop and optimize processes that enhance member experience and risk management. Plus, with a flexible work environment, we support a hybrid model that enables you to thrive both in-office and remotely. So, are you ready to embrace a fulfilling career at USAA? Let’s make a difference together!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Director, Underwriting Research- Operations Role at USAA
What are the responsibilities of a Director, Underwriting Research - Operations at USAA?

As a Director, Underwriting Research - Operations at USAA, your key responsibilities include managing a team of frontline underwriters, directing complex initiatives that enhance underwriting policies, and ensuring your team's work aligns with regulatory compliance and operational performance objectives. You'll oversee the development and optimization of processes, implement improvements for member engagement, and collaborate with various departments to identify and meet underwriting needs. Additionally, you'll lead the management of risk control assessments and monitor operational efficiency.

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What qualifications do you need to apply for the Director, Underwriting Research - Operations role at USAA?

To qualify for the Director, Underwriting Research - Operations position at USAA, you’ll need a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience plus at least eight years of related experience in Property & Casualty, Project Management, or Risk Management. You should have a minimum of three years of direct team management experience, advanced knowledge of industry practices, and the ability to develop strong relationships across various levels of the organization. Proficiency in software tools like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is also essential.

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How does USAA support the professional growth of its Director, Underwriting Research - Operations?

USAA is committed to the professional growth of its employees, including those in the Director, Underwriting Research - Operations role. We offer various career path planning initiatives, professional development programs, and continuing education Opportunities to help you reach your goals. USAA also provides a supportive work environment with a focus on employee wellness and work-life balance, further enabling you to thrive in your career.

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What is the salary range for the Director, Underwriting Research - Operations position at USAA?

The salary range for the Director, Underwriting Research - Operations at USAA is between $127,310 and $243,340. This range reflects market data and your individual experience. Compensation may vary based on location, and employees may have opportunities for bonuses based on individual and corporate performance.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What benefits can you expect as a Director, Underwriting Research - Operations with USAA?

As a Director, Underwriting Research - Operations at USAA, you’ll enjoy best-in-class benefits, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, a robust 401(k) plan, life insurance, generous parental leave, and adoption assistance. Additionally, USAA provides paid time off, professional development resources, and a focus on employee wellness initiatives, helping to ensure both your personal and professional well-being.

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Common Interview Questions for Director, Underwriting Research- Operations
Can you describe your experience in managing underwriting teams?

When answering this question, provide specific examples of your roles in leading underwriting teams. Discuss how you influenced team performance, improved processes, and the impact of your leadership on operational efficiency. Highlight any successful initiatives you've implemented that led to measurable results.

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What strategies do you use to ensure regulatory compliance in underwriting processes?

Outline your approach to maintaining compliance by mentioning how you keep up with regulatory changes, train your team on requirements, and implement processes for quality assurance and risk management. Providing examples of how you've handled compliance challenges in the past can strengthen your response.

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How do you prioritize and manage multiple complex projects?

Discuss your project management skills, including how you assess project requirements and deadlines. Mention specific tools or methodologies you use, such as Agile or Lean principles, and describe a situation where understanding priorities led to successful outcomes.

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What methods do you employ to build relationships with key stakeholders?

Share your communication strategies for engaging stakeholders, such as regular updates, inclusive decision-making, and collaborative problem-solving. Provide examples of how building these relationships has led to successful projects or initiatives.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you approach process optimization in underwriting?

Talk about your analytical skills in identifying areas for improvement using data. Explain how you gather team input, test solutions, and implement changes that enhance operational efficiencies and customer experience.

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Describe a time you led an initiative that improved underwriting efficiency.

Provide a specific instance where your leadership in a project significantly improved underwriting processes. Focus on the action steps you took and the measurable impact it had, showcasing your ability to enact change.

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What experience do you have with integrating new technology into underwriting processes?

Elaborate on your familiarity with industry technology and your role in its implementation. Mention a particular system or software that you have integrated successfully and its benefits to the underwriting process.

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How do you handle conflicts within your team?

Describe your conflict resolution strategies and how you ensure a collaborative team environment. Use examples of conflicts that were resolved effectively to demonstrate your leadership approach.

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What is your understanding of risk management within underwriting?

Express your knowledge of risk assessment techniques and how they relate to underwriting decisions. Discuss how you incorporate risk management practices into your team’s work to protect the organization and its clients.

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How do you ensure your team remains updated on industry trends?

Mention the methods you encourage for continuous learning, such as attending industry conferences, subscribing to relevant publications, and organizing regular training sessions. Highlight how staying informed enhances team performance and compliance.

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WHAT WE STAND FOR No matter how many years we’re in business or how many members we serve, our core mission and the values that inspired it never change. Our mission is to stand with our members and be there for them and their families by facili...

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Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
March 26, 2025

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