We are seeking a talented and results-driven Director of Surety to lead and grow a high-performing Surety department. Reporting directly to executive leadership, this role is responsible for ensuring exceptional client service, driving strategic growth, and leading a team to achieve departmental objectives. The ideal candidate combines strong leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills while maintaining an active role in business development and account management.
At all times, this role is responsible for adherence to the stated expectations of Sentinel’s Errors and Omissions Management Program.
Establish and execute the department’s vision and long-term strategic plan
Drive annual growth and retention goals
Collaborate with executive leadership to align department strategy with organizational objectives
Develop and implement strategies to achieve business plan objectives
Ensure compliance, quality control, and continuous improvement of departmental procedures
Lead, coach, and evaluate team members
Oversee workflow management and performance evaluations
Conduct regular training on surety programs, industry updates, and operational efficiencies
Recruit, hire, and train department staff
Support recruitment of new team members
Review employee career progression and allocate resources for ongoing development
Develop new business opportunities and ensure client retention
Manage client inquiries and resolve concerns professionally
Maintain and grow a book of business
Generation and collection of data for new accounts.
Negotiation and placement with Surety Carriers
Generation and communication of account placement strategy
Technology and Carrier Relationship Management
Evaluate technology needs to improve operational efficiency
Maintain and strengthen relationships with surety carriers
Support effective use of agency management and automation systems
Stay informed on market trends and technical surety knowledge
Participate in professional development, industry associations, and committees
Cross-refer clients and prospects to other internal departments and strategic partners
Foster a positive work environment..
Community outreach and involvement.
Contribute to Thought Leadership with articles or presentations on various topics
Minimum 5 years of managerial and leadership experience
Minimum 5 years of experience in Contract Surety
Bachelor’s degree in business management or related field (or equivalent experience)
Active Property & Casualty Agent/Broker License in good standing
Demonstrated progression of increasing responsibility
Experience with agency management systems and adaptability to new technology
Responsible for the oversight, management, and implementation of all strategies as they relate to management and servicing of an account.
Oversee a proactive and positive client experience, working in coordination with the service team
Oversight of account claims process in coordination with claims team.
Consistent Center of Influence Development and Management.
Participate in weekly meetings regarding client experience, service, renewal retention, and claims
Comfortable and fluid in usage of CRM tools - Salesforce, LinkedIn, and Zywave
Collection and management of Accounts Receivable.
Ability to carry out complex tasks with many concrete and abstract variables.
Strong computer skills and familiarity with tools such as Outlook, Excel, Word, Zywave and CRM.
Ability to manage complex projects simultaneously.
Ability to work independently and take the lead on all elements of client servicing.
Negotiation and presentation skills.
Sets priorities and manages workflow to ensure efficient, timely and accurate processing of transactions and other responsibilities.
Maintains a cordial and effective relationship with clients, co-workers, carriers, vendors, and other business contacts.
Remains up to date regarding industry information, new product information, legislation, coverage, and technology to continuously improve knowledge and performance.
Interact with others effectively by utilizing good communications skills, cooperating purposefully, and providing information and guidance, as needed, to achieve the business goals of the agency.
Fast-paced environment.
Large number of multiple steps in complex system performed with accuracy and speed are essential to the successful completion of tasks.
Any other duties as requested
Pay Range: $100,000-120,000+ Commissions
The specific compensation for this position will be determined by a number of factors, including the scope, complexity, and location of the role as well as the cost of labor in the market; the skills, education, training, credentials, and experience of the candidate; and other conditions of employment. Full-time associates have access to benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability as well as 401K contribution match.
The Carolinas’ premier, independently owned Risk Management, Employee Benefits, and Safety Consulting firm.
