2025 Underwriters of the Year | Brenden Nelms, Senior Underwriter, Chubb Insurance

Brenden Nelms began his insurance journey in 2019 as an underwriting intern at Chubb Insurance Company of Canada.

After completing his Bachelor of Commerce with a specialization in Marketing Management from the University of Guelph, he joined Chubb full time and enrolled in the company’s Associate Program. Since then, he has progressed from underwriting associate to his current role, Senior Underwriter.

Outside of work, Nelms enjoys skiing, the outdoors, travelling, and spending time with family and friends.

“I’m extremely honoured to have received this award,” Nelms says of the recognition by Acera Insurance, a member of the Canadian Broker Network, Canada’s largest network of independent brokers.

What’s key to a great working relationship between underwriter and broker, and why is this more important than ever?


“I believe the key is approaching challenges as a team. That means quick, detailed service and mutual respect, and understanding how each person works best. Getting to know your brokers and building that trust makes it easier, and more enjoyable, to collaborate on accounts.”

Why did you become an underwriter, and what do you love most about your role? “I was looking for my final co-op placement when a family friend spoke highly of Chubb and the variety in their work. I wanted a role that balanced analytics with relationships, and underwriting delivered exactly that. What I love most is the challenge — no two days are the same, and I enjoy crafting solutions for complex risks.”

What’s the biggest challenge for underwriters today, and how can they overcome it?


“The challenges are always evolving, whether it’s market cycles, climate catastrophes, or economic pressures. Successful underwriters are those who can balance managing multiple priorities, leveraging their knowledge, working as a team, being proactive, and prioritizing tasks — all while maintaining a positive attitude.”

What’s one opportunity underwriters should focus more on?


“Bring a solutions-based mindset and try to find the yes for hard-to-place risks. Sometimes it’s about finding a way to say yes to difficult risks. That means leaning on and embracing the data and technology you have at your fingertips to build terms that work for the insurer, broker, and client. It’s also one of the most rewarding aspects of the role.”

Given that talent shortages remain a challenge, what would you say to encourage more people to join the industry?


“The insurance industry really has something for everyone — whether it’s sales, claims, underwriting, operations. Anyone can find a role that aligns with their interests. It’s also an industry known for being fun, social, and full of opportunities to grow. Plus, it offers flexibility, global mobility, and constant learning.”

What skills are needed for underwriting leadership?

“Time management is key. Your day never goes exactly as planned, and you need to be able to pivot without dropping the ball. Attention to detail also matters, especially when setting clear guidance for underwriting decisions. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential. Whether it’s delivering terms or tough news, you have to be clear.”

Canada continues to suffer pressures like natural catastrophes, auto theft, fraud, and tariff impacts. How can brokers and underwriters better collaborate to help Canadian consumers manage risk?


“As a Western region underwriter, wildfire, flood, and fire protection concerns come up often. These risks require patience and strong communication between brokers and underwriters. The more information brokers can provide, the better we can respond. When underwriters clearly explain concerns, brokers can translate that back to their clients. It helps everyone stay aligned and improve the overall insurability and management of the risk.”

The Canadian Broker Network Underwriter of the Year awards is a flagship program that CBN has been running on behalf of its members for over a decade. 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 and one personal lines underwriter winner from a primary market, as well as a commercial underwriter from an MGA. 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 2025 Underwriter of the Year Award Recipients