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Underwriter Resume Examples

By Silvia Angeloro

Jul 18, 2024

|

12 min read

Crafting a standout underwriter resume: Tips to ensure you’re a ‘premium’ candidate in the insurance industry. Learn how to highlight your skills, experience, and qualifications effectively.

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Writing a standout underwriter resume can feel like walking a tightrope without a net. When you’re skilled in assessing credit, risk, and financial details, crafting a compelling resume might feel outside your comfort zone. Many underwriters find themselves lost in industry jargon, unsure of how to translate their skills into eye-catching bullet points. Add to that the pressure of job hunting, and it’s easy to see why you might feel overwhelmed. This guide is designed to help you turn those underwriting skills into a powerful resume that opens doors to new opportunities. Let’s tackle those resume-writing problems together and ensure you present your career story in the best light.

Your resume is more than just a document; it’s your ticket to future career success. Using the right template ensures your skills shine and your experience is properly highlighted. Choose a professional design that not only looks good but helps your expertise pop off the page.

We’ve got more than 700 resume examples to help you on your journey to crafting that perfect underwriter resume!

Key Takeaways

  • Emphasize your analytical skills, decision-making abilities, and proficiency in industry regulations to make a strong impression in your underwriter resume.
  • Choose a professional resume template that highlights your expertise effectively and adds visual appeal without distracting from your qualifications.
  • Use a reverse-chronological format to showcase your career progression and significant achievements, and save your document as a PDF to maintain its formatting.
  • Include essential sections such as Contact Information, Professional Summary, Work Experience, Education, Skills, and Certifications to present a comprehensive profile.
  • Tailor your resume to the specific job description by using strong, action verbs, quantifiable achievements, and industry-specific skills to enhance your candidacy.

What to focus on when writing your underwriter resume

A strong underwriter resume should clearly convey your analytical skills, decision-making abilities, and deep knowledge of risk assessment to the recruiter. Emphasize your proficiency in evaluating financials and handling complex datasets while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Showcasing your success in minimizing risk and optimizing profitability will set you apart.

Key Points to Include:

  • Proven experience in underwriting with specific examples of successful risk assessment.
  • Strong understanding of industry-related regulations and compliance standards.
  • Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency in relevant software and financial analysis tools.

Must have information on your underwriter resume

When crafting your underwriter resume, certain sections are essential to showcase your qualifications effectively:

  • Contact Information
  • Professional Summary
  • Work Experience
  • Education
  • Skills
  • Certifications

You should also consider adding additional sections like Professional Associations and Software Proficiency to make your resume stand out even more. Tailoring your resume to these sections can help you make a strong impression on hiring managers.

Which resume format to choose

For an underwriter resume, a reverse-chronological format is best because it highlights your work experience and career progression, which is crucial in the finance industry. When choosing fonts, consider modern options like Rubik and Montserrat for a fresh and professional look. Always save your resume as a PDF to ensure it keeps its formatting and is easy to open on any device. Keep your margins to one inch on all sides to make your resume look clean and readable. Use clear section headings to help Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan and sort your resume efficiently.

An underwriter resume should have the following sections:

  • Contact Information
  • Professional Summary
  • Work Experience
  • Education
  • Skills
  • Certifications
  • Awards
  • Professional Affiliations

Resume Mentor's free resume builder takes care of all these details for you, ensuring a polished and ATS-friendly resume.

How to write a quantifiable resume experience section

Writing the experience section of your underwriter resume can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Start by placing your most recent job experience first and work backward. Generally, you shouldn't go back more than 10-15 years, unless older experience is particularly relevant. Focus on job titles that are directly related to underwriting to make your resume more relevant.

Tailoring your resume to the job you're applying for is key. This means highlighting experience and skills that align with the specific requirements of the job posting. Use strong, action verbs like "analyzed," "evaluated," and "enhanced" rather than passive words. Numbers and percentages speak louder than responsibilities, so include them to show your achievements.

Here’s an example of an underwriter resume experience section that's poorly written:

Experience
Underwriter
ABC Insurance
New York, NY
Company Description
  • Reviewed applications and approved or rejected them.
  • Worked with clients.
  • Made sure that all paperwork was in order.

This example is weak because it uses vague descriptions and lacks quantifiable achievements. You can't tell what impact the underwriter had, and the language is unengaging.

Now, here’s an example of a strong underwriter resume experience section:

Experience
Senior Underwriter
XYZ Financial Services
Los Angeles, CA
Company Description
  • Increased loan approval rate by 20% through risk assessment enhancements.
  • Led a team of 5 underwriters, providing training and mentorship.
  • Reduced processing time by 15% by implementing a new software system.
Underwriter
ABC Insurance
New York, NY
Company Description
  • Reviewed and approved or rejected 100+ applications monthly.
  • Collaborated with clients to gather necessary documents, increasing client satisfaction by 15%.
  • Implemented a quality control process, decreasing errors by 10%.

This example stands out because it highlights clear achievements and uses specific, quantifiable data. It shows the candidate's impact in previous roles, making it easy for the employer to see the value they could bring. This approach makes your resume much more compelling and effective.

Underwriter resume experience examples

Here comes the underwriting section—don't worry, we'll "cover" all you need to know! Dive in and discover key ways to make your experience shine bright on your resume.

Achievement-focused

Highlight your key achievements to show you hit your targets and went beyond.

Work Experience

Senior Underwriter

ABC Insurance

Jan 2018 - Present

  • Increased portfolio value by 25% through strategic risk assessment.
  • Awarded 'Employee of the Year' for exceptional performance.
  • Developed a new underwriting process that reduced loan approval time by 15%.

Skills-focused

Showcase the skills critical for underwriting, like analytical thinking and attention to detail.

Work Experience

Underwriter

XYZ Financial Services

Mar 2016 - Dec 2017

  • Utilized advanced statistical models for risk assessment.
  • Proficient in underwriting software such as Guidewire.
  • Mastered policy drafting and financial analysis.

Responsibility-focused

Share the responsibilities you handled to demonstrate your trustworthiness and dedication.

Work Experience

Junior Underwriter

LMN Lending

Jul 2014 - Feb 2016

  • Reviewed and analyzed loan applications for mortgage loans.
  • Maintained compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Provided guidance to junior team members on underwriting methodologies.

Project-focused

Detail specific projects you managed or contributed to in the underwriting field.

Work Experience

Project Underwriter

DEF Insurance Co.

Jun 2013 - Jun 2014

  • Led a project to overhaul the company’s risk management framework.
  • Worked with IT to develop a new risk assessment tool.
  • Conducted training sessions for the team on the new system.

Result-focused

Share the tangible results you've achieved, such as revenue growth or improved processes.

Work Experience

Underwriting Specialist

GHI Policy Group

May 2012 - May 2013

  • Reduced claim denials by 20% through effective risk mitigation tactics.
  • Enhanced underwriting accuracy by implementing new auditing procedures.
  • Saved the company $200,000 annually through improved policy review processes.

Industry-Specific Focus

Emphasize expertise within a particular sector, such as auto, health, or home insurance.

Work Experience

Auto Insurance Underwriter

JKL Auto Insurance

Jan 2011 - Apr 2012

  • Specialized in the evaluation of auto insurance applications.
  • Conducted market analysis to adjust policy rates accordingly.
  • Collaborated with sales teams to optimize product offerings.

Problem-Solving focused

Highlight your knack for identifying and resolving issues efficiently.

Work Experience

Claims Underwriter

MNO Assurance

Feb 2009 - Dec 2010

  • Addressed and resolved 95% of policyholder complaints.
  • Devised solutions to policy inconsistencies, reducing errors by 30%.
  • Collaborated with the claims department to streamline processes.

Innovation-focused

Share how you’ve brought innovative solutions or ideas to the table.

Work Experience

Innovative Underwriter

QRS Insurance Innovations

Jan 2007 - Jan 2009

  • Introduced predictive analytics to improve risk assessment accuracy.
  • Developed a mobile app for faster application submissions.
  • Implemented automated underwriting systems to reduce manual errors.

Leadership-focused

Showcase your ability to lead teams and projects.

Work Experience

Team Lead Underwriter

TUV Coverage

Jun 2005 - Dec 2006

  • Supervised a team of 10 underwriters.
  • Coached team members to improve performance and proficiency.
  • Managed high-profile policy accounts with significant financial impact.

Customer-focused

Focus on how you enhance customer experiences and provide exceptional service.

Work Experience

Customer Relations Underwriter

WXY Customer First Insurance

Aug 2003 - May 2005

  • Maintained high customer satisfaction rates by 40%.
  • Personalized policies based on individual customer needs.
  • Handled complex customer inquiries with a 98% resolution rate.

Growth-focused

Detail how you’ve contributed to company growth and expansion.

Work Experience

Business Growth Underwriter

YZA Growth Inc.

Mar 2001 - Jul 2003

  • Played a key role in expanding the company into new markets.
  • Increased the customer base by 15% through innovative marketing strategies.
  • Partnered with sales to develop new policy products, boosting sales by 20%.

Efficiency-focused

Illustrate how you’ve streamlined processes and improved efficiency.

Work Experience

Efficiency-focused Underwriter

BCD Process Improvements

Jan 2000 - Feb 2001

  • Improved review process, cutting down underwriting time by 10%.
  • Developed standard operating procedures to enhance workflow.
  • Reduced operational costs by $50,000 through process optimization.

Technology-focused

Describe your experience with underwriting technology and software.

Work Experience

Tech Savvy Underwriter

EFG Tech Solutions

May 1998 - Dec 1999

  • Enhanced risk evaluations using advanced software tools.
  • Trained staff on new technology implementations.
  • Maintained and updated underwriting databases regularly.

Collaboration-focused

Showcase your ability to work well with others across various departments.

Work Experience

Collaborative Underwriter

HIL Team Builders

Sep 1996 - Apr 1998

  • Worked closely with the sales team to align underwriting practices.
  • Coordinated with IT to develop user-friendly policy tools.
  • Facilitated cross-department meetings to optimize workflows.

Training and Development focused

Highlight your role in training and mentoring others in the underwriting field.

Work Experience

Training Underwriter

JKM Learning Center

Jun 1995 - Aug 1996

  • Conducted onboarding sessions for new underwriters.
  • Developed training materials and programs.
  • Mentored junior staff, improving their underwriting competency.

Write your underwriter resume summary section

Writing a resume summary for an underwriter position requires clarity and focus. You want to highlight your key skills, experiences, and achievements succinctly. This section should serve as a quick overview of your professional identity and qualifications. Use strong yet simple language that a sixth-grader can understand.

When describing yourself in the resume summary, focus on showcasing your expertise and unique qualities. Stick to a few strong sentences that capture your career achievements and relevant skills. Use active verbs and specific metrics when possible, as they make your qualifications stand out.

A resume summary is different from a resume objective or profile. A summary highlights your career achievements and significant skills. It is ideal for professionals with extensive experience. A resume objective is suitable for those new to the field or changing careers, emphasizing future goals rather than past experience. A resume profile is a mix of both, focusing on skills and experiences, but it is more generic. Lastly, a summary of qualifications is a bullet-point list of your top skills and achievements, offering quick insights into your capabilities.

Now, let’s look at two examples:

SUMMARY
I have worked in underwriting for many years and done a lot. I know about various insurance policies and can perform risk evaluations. I am good at making decisions.

The first example is not effective. It is vague and lacks specific details. Phrases like "many years" and "done a lot" are not quantifiable and don't offer unique insights. Saying "I am good at making decisions" is too general and not supported by evidence.

SUMMARY
Experienced underwriter with over 10 years in the insurance industry. Proven track record in evaluating risk and underwriting complex policies, leading to a 20% reduction in claim payouts. Adept at using advanced underwriting software and mentoring junior staff.

The second example is concise and specific. It mentions over 10 years of experience and quantifies achievements like a 20% reduction in claim payouts. Phrases like "Proven track record" and "Adept at using advanced underwriting software" provide a clear picture of your skills and accomplishments, making you a compelling candidate.

Listing your underwriter skills on your resume

Writing your skills section for your underwriter resume involves showcasing both your strengths and the specific abilities you excel at. Skills can appear as a standalone section or be incorporated into your experience and summary sections. Your strengths might include your unwavering attention to detail and ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. Soft skills are personal attributes like interpersonal communication and adaptability, while hard skills are technical abilities that you’ve learned, like financial analysis and risk assessment.

Skills and strengths can also serve as resume keywords, helping your resume get noticed by applicant tracking systems (ATS) and hiring managers. Strategically planting these terms in various sections of your resume enhances your chances of passing through automated filters and catching the eye of human recruiters.

Example of a standalone skills section:

Skills
Risk Assessment
Financial Analysis
Data Analysis
Underwriting Software Proficiency
Compliance Knowledge
Policy Evaluation
Decision-Making
Portfolio Management

What makes this skills section good is its clarity and relevance. Each skill listed directly relates to underwriter duties, which means it’s perfectly curated for the role. These specific skills are the traits that employers are looking for, and having them in one easily readable section helps your resume stand out.

Best hard skills to feature on your underwriter resume

Hard skills are technical and specific abilities that you have acquired through training or experience. For an underwriter, these skills should convey your competence in managing risks, analyzing financial data, and understanding compliance.

Hard Skills

  • Risk Assessment
  • Financial Analysis
  • Data Analysis
  • Underwriting Software Proficiency
  • Compliance Knowledge
  • Policy Evaluation
  • Decision-Making
  • Portfolio Management
  • Credit Analysis
  • Risk Mitigation
  • Legal Documentation
  • Market Research
  • Contract Review
  • Actuarial Science
  • Statistical Analysis

Best soft skills to feature on your underwriter resume

Soft skills are personal attributes that help you interact effectively with others. For an underwriter, these skills should communicate your ability to manage tasks, work in teams, and communicate effectively.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail
  • Communication
  • Problem-Solving
  • Time Management
  • Critical Thinking
  • Adaptability
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Customer Service
  • Team Collaboration
  • Negotiation
  • Organization
  • Stress Management
  • Decision-Making
  • Multitasking
  • Emotional Intelligence

How to include your education on your resume

The education section is an important part of your underwriter resume. A well-crafted education section highlights your qualifications. It should be tailored to the job you are applying for, so leave out any irrelevant education. You should include your GPA if it’s above 3.5 and relevant. Cum laude or other honors can make your education section stand out. Clearly list your degree with the proper title and the institution’s name.

Education
BSc in Marine Biology
Beachside University

This example is not ideal. The degree is not relevant to an underwriting job. A low GPA is listed, which can be a drawback.

Education
Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
State University
GPA
3.8
/
4.0

This example is strong. The degree is relevant to being an underwriter. The GPA is high and listed. The dates are accurate and make sense. The information is concise and pertinent to the job.

How to include underwriter certificates on your resume

The certificates section is an important part of your underwriter resume. Including relevant certifications can make your application stand out and show that you have the qualifications. You can even add certificates in the header to ensure they are easily seen.

Start by listing the name of the certificate. Include the date you received it to show how recent your skills are. Add the issuing organization to show credibility. For example, in the header, you could put: "Certified Insurance Underwriter (2022) - The Institutes".

A good standalone certificates section would look like this:

Certificates
Certified Insurance Underwriter
The Institutes
Associate in Risk Management
The Institutes
Actuarial Certificate
Society of Actuaries

This example is good because it lists relevant certifications that align with an underwriter's job. The certificates are issued by reputable organizations, adding credibility to your qualifications. Including the date shows your credentials are up to date, which is crucial in the insurance field. Having these certificates can make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

Extra sections to include in your underwriter resume

Creating a compelling resume as an underwriter involves emphasizing specialized skills, experiences, and qualities that make you stand out. Including various sections in your resume can paint a more comprehensive picture for potential employers. Here's how to integrate different elements effectively and what benefits they offer:

  • Language section — Demonstrate your proficiency in multiple languages to show versatility and the ability to work with diverse clients or markets. Highlighting languages can give you an edge in international or multicultural firms.

  • Hobbies and interests section — Illustrate your well-rounded personality and stress management skills. Sharing interests can create a personal connection with the hiring manager and show that you're engaged in self-care outside of work.

  • Volunteer work section — Showcase your commitment to community and leadership qualities. Including volunteer experience highlights your ability to manage responsibilities and work in team settings, essential traits for an underwriter.

  • Books section — Show your commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends. Mentioning relevant books helps underline your dedication to personal and professional growth and can spark meaningful conversations during interviews.

These sections add depth to your resume, making you appear as a holistic candidate. Potential employers can gain insights into both your hard and soft skills, enhancing your appeal for the role.

Pair your underwriter resume with a cover letter

A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume when you apply for a job. It provides a brief introduction of yourself, explains why you are interested in the position, and highlights your most relevant skills and experiences. A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants by showing your enthusiasm and giving a personal touch to your application.

For an underwriter position, your cover letter should focus on your analytical skills, attention to detail, and experience with risk assessment. Mention any specific software you are proficient in and provide examples of your successful decision-making in previous roles. Highlighting your ability to work well under pressure and communicate effectively with clients will also be beneficial.

Start crafting your standout cover letter using Resume Mentor's cover letter builder. It's simple to use, and exporting your letter as a PDF ensures that your content and formatting are preserved and protected.

Michael Martinez

Houston, Texas

+1-(234)-555-1234

help@resumementor.com


Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Underwriter position at your esteemed company. As a professional with over four years of experience in the insurance industry, particularly in underwriting and risk analysis, I am deeply impressed by your commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

During my tenure at Progressive Insurance, I managed a portfolio that generated $4 million in annual premiums and achieved a 10% growth year-over-year. Through the implementation of new risk evaluation procedures, I was able to enhance underwriting efficiency by 15%. This initiative not only improved productivity but also had a tangible impact on the company's profitability metrics, as evidenced by an 8% improvement in loss ratios.

I would welcome the opportunity to bring my skills in risk analysis, compliance, and data collection to your team. I am eager to discuss how my background, achievements, and approach to underwriting can further contribute to the success of your organization. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience to schedule an interview.

Sincerely,

Michael Martinez

Underwriter
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