2024 Underwriters of the Year | Sutharsan Sellar, Senior Personal Lines Underwriter, Intact Insurance

Sutharsan Sellar’s experience as a broker prior to becoming an underwriter is what fuels his deep understanding and commitment to finding underwriting solutions that best fit customers’ needs.

Joining the industry in 2012 as a broker, Sellar worked his way up to senior broker before switching to underwriting, where he quickly climbed the ranks to his current role at Intact Insurance. He earned his CIP designation in 2014.

Outside of work, Sellar enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter. His hobbies include watching Netflix shows and documentaries, and he has a passion for photography.

“Being recognized is truly rewarding,” Sellar says of his nomination by HUNTERS International, a broker member of Canadian Broker Network. “It’s validation of the hard work and dedication put into the job, and it reinforces the importance of collaboration within such a large network. It’s motivating to know that our efforts are appreciated and that we’re making a positive impact in the industry.”

Q: What makes a great underwriter-broker working relationship?

“One built on trust, communication, and collaboration. When both parties work together effectively, they can navigate challenges, such as tough market conditions or resource shortages. For example, during hard economic times, an underwriter and broker might team up to find creative solutions for clients, ensuring coverage remains viable despite tightening conditions. This collaborative approach not only strengthens their partnership but also leads to better outcomes for clients and fosters a resilient network in the face of adversity.”

Q: Why did you become an underwriter, and what do you love most about your role?

“I became an underwriter because I was drawn to the challenge of assessing risks and finding solutions that meet clients’ needs. The combination of analytical thinking and problem-solving really appealed to me. What I love most about my role is the opportunity to build relationships and collaborate with brokers to create tailored solutions. It’s rewarding to be part of an industry that plays such a crucial role in supporting businesses and individuals, especially during challenging times. Each day brings new challenges and learning opportunities, which keep the work exciting and fulfilling.”

Q: What’s the biggest challenge for underwriters in P&C currently, and one thing they can do to overcome it?

“The hard market, characterized by increased premiums and limited coverage options. This creates pressure on both underwriters and brokers to find solutions that meet clients’ needs while managing risk effectively. Underwriters and insurers can enhance collaboration and communication with brokers to overcome this challenge. By fostering stronger relationships and sharing insights about market trends and client needs, they can develop tailored solutions that address both risk and affordability, ultimately leading to better outcomes for everyone involved.” 

Q: Given the current talent shortage, what would you say to encourage people to join the industry?

“The insurance industry offers diverse career opportunities and is crucial to the economy, providing stability and support in challenging times. It’s a field that combines analytical skills with the chance to make a real impact on people’s lives and businesses. Plus, there’s a strong emphasis on professional growth and continuous learning. Joining the industry means being part of a collaborative community where your contributions are valued, and you can develop a rewarding career path. Whether you’re interested in underwriting, brokerage, risk management, claims, actuarial, billing, or admin, there’s a place for you in insurance!” 

Q: What’s one opportunity you think underwriters should focus more on in today’s marketplace?

“The integration of advanced data analytics and AI. By leveraging big data and AI, underwriters can better assess risks, streamline the underwriting process, and offer more personalized insurance products. This not only enhances efficiency but also improves accuracy in pricing and risk evaluation, allowing insurers to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.” 

Q: How do you see technology, including AI, impacting the role of underwriters in the coming years?

“It will significantly impact the role of underwriters by streamlining processes, enhancing data analysis, and improving decision-making. AI can automate routine tasks, allowing underwriters to focus on more complex risk assessments and client interactions. Advanced data analytics will also enable more accurate pricing and risk evaluation, leading to tailored insurance solutions. Overall, these innovations will increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer experience, ultimately transforming the insurance landscape for the better.”

The Canadian Broker Network Underwriter of the Year awards is a flagship program that CBN has been running on behalf of its members since 2017. The program is exclusive to CBN in partnership with Canadian Underwriter magazine. The categories allow for each of our member firms, at their option, to select one commercial lines underwriter winner as well as one personal lines underwriter winner from a primary market. The program evolved in 2021 to also allow for one commercial lines underwriter from an MGA in addition to the other two categories. The criteria includes underwriting excellence and risk knowledge; prompt and effective responsiveness back to CBN members; writing business that satisfies clients’ needs while creating a win-win for the broker and the insurer; a positive, helpful attitude; and investing time to develop trusting relationships with brokers.

Full list of 2024 Underwriters of the Year Award