Job title: Director of Commercial Lines
Job type: Permanent
Emp type: Full-time
Industry: Insurance
Functional Expertise: Account Executive Department Manager
Location: Chicago, IL
Job published: 08/13/2026
Job ID: 158790

Job Description

Head of Commercial Lines

Job Summary

Seeking an experienced and dynamic professional to lead and grow a Commercial Lines business. This is a senior leadership role for an individual with deep expertise in commercial property and casualty (P&C) insurance, who is passionate about building and operating a high-performing commercial insurance practice. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping our commercial strategy, strengthening carrier relationships, developing processes, supporting business development, and building a team to drive growth. This is an exceptional opportunity for someone who thrives on creating and growing a business, rather than simply managing an existing book of business. For the right candidate, equity ownership opportunities are available.

Compensation Package

We offer a competitive compensation package aligned with the long-term success of the business. This includes a base salary, performance-based incentives, and potential equity ownership opportunities for the right candidate.

Responsibilities

Lead the Commercial Lines Business

  • Provide strategic leadership and direction for the Commercial Lines practice.
  • Develop and execute a growth plan leveraging existing relationships, referrals, and new opportunities.
  • Define target client segments and industry niches where the business can effectively compete.
  • Establish goals, priorities, and performance standards for the practice.

Market & Technical Leadership

  • Serve as the senior commercial P&C resource within the organization.
  • Maintain extensive knowledge of commercial insurance markets, products, and emerging exposures.
  • Build and strengthen relationships with carriers, wholesalers, and specialty markets.
  • Provide guidance on complex accounts, coverage structures, and placement strategies.
  • Stay informed on market conditions, pricing trends, and new product developments.

Build the Commercial Lines Platform

  • Evaluate and enhance workflows and processes across all stages of the client lifecycle.
  • Establish consistent standards for account documentation, coverage reviews, and proposals.
  • Collaborate with leadership to ensure systems, technology, and resources support the practice effectively.
  • Develop scalable processes to support growth without compromising service quality.

Business Development & Client Leadership

  • Actively participate in developing and closing significant commercial opportunities.
  • Collaborate with producers to identify and pursue new business opportunities.
  • Serve as a senior advisor to clients, particularly on complex or sophisticated risks.
  • Develop and communicate the organization’s commercial value proposition.

Team Development

  • Assess staffing needs and recruit top talent to support the growth of the practice.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of commercial insurance professionals.
  • Establish clear roles, responsibilities, and accountability across the team.
  • Enhance the technical capabilities of the broader team.

Qualifications/Requirements

  • 10+ years of experience in commercial property & casualty insurance, with significant experience in a brokerage or agency environment.
  • Extensive knowledge of commercial P&C products, including property, general liability, workers' compensation, professional liability, cyber, and other specialty coverages.
  • Strong relationships with commercial insurance carriers, wholesalers, and specialty markets.
  • Proven ability to structure and place complex commercial insurance programs.
  • Deep understanding of brokerage operations, including submissions, marketing, proposals, and renewals.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in managing people, processes, or a commercial insurance practice.
  • Exceptional client-facing, communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
  • Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for building and growing a business.
  • Ability to operate strategically while remaining hands-on in a growing organization

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