AVP, Industry Practice Director - Manufacturing, Wholesale, Retail

AVP, Industry Practice Director - Manufacturing, Wholesale, Retail

Zurich North America is seeking an AVP Industry Practice Director for our growing U.S. Middle Market Business Unit. The role is responsible for advancing the foundational Property and Casualty underwriting framework for our Manufacturing, Wholesale & Retail Industries Industry Practices.

Job Summary

The title holder will work at a national level to deliver the Property and Casualty underwriting strategy, training and supporting Market Facing Underwriters, and collaborating cross‑functionally with Industry Practice Leaders, Underwriters, Brokers, Line of Business and Actuarial partners. The position should be proximate to a Zurich North American Middle Market Office, with occasional travel and possible remote work.

Key Accountabilities

Operationalize the underwriting strategy for the Manufacturing, Wholesale & Retail industry practices to deliver growth and profitability.

Develop and advance technical standards, controls, and practices for these industry practices.

Provide technical underwriting guidance to field staff through handling complex queries and referrals.

Participate in strategic and operational planning, lending the industry perspective.

Develop feedback mechanisms to share information across the business.

Create solutions for industry issues and trends, identifying opportunities for new products and services.

Engage agencies in key relationships alongside Head of Industry, Territory Leaders, and Underwriters, with travel as needed.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree and 8+ years of underwriting experience, or

High school diploma or equivalent and 10+ years of underwriting experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Advanced knowledge in underwriting property, general liability, auto, workers’ compensation and umbrella within the Manufacturing, Wholesale & Retail space.

Ability to manage complex Property and Casualty underwriting portfolios and meet targets.

Proven ability to influence others to achieve goals.

Experience developing and implementing underwriting strategies for complex offerings.

Strong sales skills, including relationship building, active listening and win‑win negotiation.

Leadership presence with experience navigating large organizations to execute through influence.

Excellent communication and problem‑solving skills.

Proficiency with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, Excel, PowerPoint, Word and new technologies.

CPCU or CIC designation.

Compensation & Bonus

Salary range : $113,000.00 – $185,000.00 (national average). Short‑term incentive bonus eligibility set at 20%.

Benefits

We offer competitive pay and comprehensive benefits for employees and their families.

Learn more about Total Rewards here.

Why Zurich?

Zurich values your ideas and experience. We offer growth, inclusion, and a supportive environment—so you can help shape the future of insurance. As a leader in risk management, we provide expert coverage across 25+ industries, including 90% of the Fortune 500®.

EEO Statement

Zurich in North America does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, pregnancy or other characteristics protected by applicable law. Equal Opportunity Employer, disability / vets.

Location & Remote Work

North America, flexible office locations or virtual office. Remote work is hybrid and may involve travel.

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