In which situation would a producer likely have express authority?

A producer has express authority when they are specifically granted the power to act on behalf of an insurance company, which is often outlined in a written agreement or contract. In this context, executing a contract defined in writing clearly demonstrates this authority. It signifies that the producer has been formally authorized to engage in the actions stipulated within the contract, such as binding coverage, negotiating terms, or performing any other duties explicitly stated.

This type of authority is crucial because it sets clear expectations for both the producer and the insurance company, ensuring that the producer operates within the legal and operational framework established by the insurer. In formal transactions or agreements like these, the responsibility and limits of the producer's actions are clearly delineated, reinforcing the trust and accountability necessary in the insurance industry.

Other scenarios presented in the options do not fulfill the requirements for express authority, as they lack the formal, written component that solidifies a producer's ability to act on behalf of an insurer.