Deputy Head of Casualty

Purpose of the Role

The Head of Casualty will lead the Casualty underwriting team, overseeing the development and execution of underwriting strategies for the casualty portfolio. This role involves managing a diverse portfolio, ensuring profitable growth, and maintaining strong relationships with brokers and key stakeholders. The Head of Casualty will drive new business initiatives, review complex risk submissions, and provide guidance on underwriting decisions to ensure compliance with established underwriting guidelines. Reporting to Head of P&C, this position requires strategic leadership, effective communication, and a focus on underwriting technicality and operational efficiency. The Head of Casualty will also mentor team members and collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve business objectives.

Key Accountabilities & Responsibilities

1. Strategic Direction: Develop and implement the overall strategy for the casualty underwriting portfolio, ensuring alignment with the company’s business objectives and market dynamics.
2. Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and manage the casualty underwriting team, fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and professional development.
3. Risk Management: Oversee the assessment and underwriting of risks, particularly complex accounts, ensuring adherence to underwriting standards and effective risk mitigation strategies.
4. Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with producers, clients, and industry stakeholders to drive business growth and enhance service delivery.
5. Performance Monitoring: Analyze portfolio performance metrics and trends, utilizing data-driven insights to inform strategic decisions and optimize underwriting practices.
6. Compliance Oversight: Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies, maintaining high standards of ethical conduct and risk management.
7. Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams: Work closely with other departments, such as claims, actuarial, and marketing, to ensure a cohesive approach to business objectives and customer service.
8. Production & Budget Management: Develop and manage the Casualty production and budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources to achieve financial targets and operational efficiency.

Required Skills & Experience

1. Extensive Underwriting Experience & Risk Assessment Expertise: A minimum of 8 years of experience in casualty underwriting, with a proven track record in managing complex risks and portfolios. In-depth knowledge of risk assessment methodologies and underwriting principles, with the ability to make informed decisions based on data analysis.
2. Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and team management abilities, with experience in mentoring and developing underwriting teams to achieve high performance.
3. Strategic Thinking & Analytical Skills: Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic plans that align with business objectives and drive growth in the casualty segment. Proficient in analyzing portfolio performance metrics and market data to inform strategic decisions and optimize underwriting practices.
4. Problem-Solving Abilities: Strong problem-solving skills, with the capacity to address challenges and implement effective solutions in a dynamic environment.
5. Relationship Management: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven ability to build and maintain relationships with brokers, clients, and industry stakeholders.
6. Market Knowledge: Strong understanding of the casualty insurance market, including trends, regulatory requirements, and competitive landscape.
7. Financial Acumen: Experience in budget management and financial analysis, with the ability to make sound financial decisions that support business objectives.
8. Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree in finance, business, risk management, economics or a related field; professional designations such as CPCU, AU, or similar are preferred.