Crop Product Development Consultant

This Crop Product Development Consultant has been created to support the RCIS Growth Strategy.  This role is responsible for, and will contribute to, the application, strategic direction, and improvement of the Zurich RCIS Crop Private products.  These products include a full range of solutions, particularly wind & hail exposure.

The ideal candidate will be adept at managing relationships with internal and external stakeholders to drive new product direction, product innovation, and various product support services. This role is also responsible for research, development of products and related coverages for Crop insurance products. 

The role can work from any Zurich office or remote, preferably centrally located to accommodate travel. Schaumburg, IL and Anoka, MN are preferred locations.

 As the Crop Product Development Consultant, primary accountabilities will include:

• Facilitating communication and partnering with leadership teams to define strategic direction and product roadmaps
• Support the implementation of technology initiatives to improve processes, develop policies and generate innovation to maintain regulatory compliance and/or deliver process or product enhancements.
• Support the development and implementation of underwriting solutions (e.g. product development) for a portfolio, line of business, or product line
• Supporting the implementation activities and product launch such as pilot groups, and training as required.
• Stay abreast of the latest product line and industry trends
• Maintain and promote existing strategic partnerships internally
• Advise the Business Unit and Underwriters in responding to coverage requests and draft language for specific transactions
• Assist with approval of terms and conditions (e.g. policy wording) by working closely with the Business Unit and Underwriters
• Promote a consistent approach to coverage through adherence to an established coverage philosophy
• Contribute to the development of technical underwriting coverage guidelines and Best Practices, including controls and procedures.
• Support strategic initiatives that impact the product line
• Research and analyze relevant legal issues in connection with contract drafting
• Develop training materials on the intent of critical policy provisions and new products
• Structure new endorsements consistently and maintain the endorsement library with relevant updates and modifications
• Educate and influence stakeholders by demonstrating the impact of coverage requests to ensure that the business is not exposed to undue risk.
• Understanding the competitive landscape and customer satisfaction through customer visits, and collaboration with Sales and Service teams.

 Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree and 5 or more years of experience in the Product Development area

OR
• High School Diploma or Equivalent and 7 or more years of experience in the Product Development area

AND
• Insurance experience in Crop line of business
• Underwriting and/or Claims experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• 5+ years working in Insurance product development or directly with development teams.
• Industry experience in the relevant line(s) of business (Crop)
• Strong organizational and analytical skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills needed; with ability to tailor approach based upon audience and message
• Proficient in using computer based tools
• Demonstrated ability to partner and negotiate effectively with stakeholders, UW, Actuarial, IT and business staff.
• Ability to effectively manage workload, meet assigned timelines, demonstrate urgency & resolve complex problems both independently and as part of the team.

As a condition of employment at Zurich, employees must adhere to any COVID-related health and safety protocols in place at that time (https://www.zurichna.com/careers/faq).

A future with Zurich. What can go right when you apply at Zurich?

Now is the time to move forward and make a difference. At Zurich, we want you to share your unique perspectives, experiences and ideas so we can grow and drive sustainable change together. As part of a leading global organization, Zurich North America has over 150 years of experience managing risk and supporting resilience. Today, Zurich North America is a leading provider of commercial property-casualty insurance solutions and a wide range of risk management products and services for businesses and individuals. We serve more than 25 industries, from agriculture to technology, and we insure 90% of the Fortune 500®. Our growth strategy is not limited to our business. As an employer, we strive to provide ongoing career development opportunities, and we foster an environment where voices are diverse, behaviors are inclusive, actions drive equity, and our people feel a sense of belonging. Be a part of the next evolution of the insurance industry. Join us in building a brighter future for our colleagues, our customers and the communities we serve. Zurich maintains a comprehensive employee benefits package for employees as well as eligible dependents and competitive compensation. Please click here to learn more.

As a global company, Zurich recognizes the diversity of our workforce as an asset. We recruit talented people from a variety of backgrounds with unique perspectives that are truly welcome here. Taken together, diversity and inclusion bring us closer to our common goal: exceeding our customers’ expectations. Zurich does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other legally protected status. EOE disability/vet 

Zurich does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies. Any unsolicited resume will become the property of Zurich American Insurance. If you are a preferred vendor, please use our Recruiting Agency Portal for resume submission. 

Location(s): AM - Anoka, AM - Remote Work (US), AM - Illinois Virtual Office, AM - Kansas Virtual Office, AM - Texas Virtual Office, AM - Minnesota Virtual Office, AM - Nebraska Virtual Office, AM - North Carolina Virt. Office, AM - Sioux Falls
Remote Working: Hybrid
Schedule: Full Time
Employment Sponsorship Offered: No  
 
Linkedin Recruiter Tag: #LI-LB1 #LI-ASSOCIATE