Underwriting Counsel (FL)

Overview

A Bermuda-based holding company serving the housing finance industry is seeking a Senior Underwriting Counsel. This role focuses on underwriting decisions related to residential and commercial properties within an assigned state, with backup support in additional jurisdictions as needed. The position is remote but requires residency in Florida.

Responsibilities

• Underwrite commercial and residential title closings.
• Assist independent and affiliated agent title and escrow officers with complex issues and closing problems.
• Support efforts with state regulators, rating agencies, bureaus, and licensing organizations.
• Review and approve high liability orders within approved limits.
• Provide training to independent and affiliated agents.
• Advise agents on escrow and title closing issues and respond to claim problems with Claims Department approval.
• Participate in marketing and education efforts, including presentations, writing bulletins and articles, and staying current on new laws and procedures.
• Engage with title industry associations, state and local title organizations, and related industry and state bar associations.
• Utilize underwriting standards and guidelines within delegated authority to underwrite title insurance issuance.
• Provide guidance on real estate settlement services.
• Manage staff by balancing workloads, recruiting, training, developing, and performance management.
• Hold direct reports accountable for competency development and goal achievement.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree and Juris Doctorate required.
• Minimum 7 years of title insurance underwriting experience with a real estate transactional background.
• Ability to travel up to approximately 30%.
• Supervisory experience.
• Continuing legal education requirements.
• Membership in Bar Association and license to practice law in at least one primary assigned state; willingness to obtain additional state licenses as needed.
• Knowledge and familiarity with real estate law.
• Understanding of state-specific real estate and title insurance law in assigned region.
• Strong understanding of real estate title and settlement processes.
• General knowledge of Federal and State regulations related to real estate title insurance and settlement services.
• Ability to collaborate and make decisive underwriting decisions.
• Knowledge of management principles and leadership skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Strong organizational skills with ability to multitask, prioritize, and follow up timely.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Flexible hours and work location.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and disability benefits.

Location

• Remote position requiring residency in Florida.