Which of the following has the least authority among underwriters?

The staff underwriter typically holds the least authority among the various underwriting roles listed. This position is often considered an entry-level role within the underwriting team, focusing primarily on the assessment and processing of insurance applications, gathering information, and providing support to more senior underwriters.

In contrast, production underwriters usually have more responsibilities related to developing and managing relationships with agents, negotiating terms, and making underwriting decisions. Senior underwriters possess greater experience and authority to make complex decisions and may also supervise other underwriters. Specialty underwriters often focus on specific types of risks or markets, leveraging their expertise to make nuanced underwriting decisions, which also grants them considerable authority in their area.

Hence, the staff underwriter's duties are more about assistance and support rather than key decision-making, positioning them with the least authority among these categories.