About the Role
Our client, a prominent insurer with a strong presence in the Eastern Cape, is seeking a skilled Commercial Property Underwriter to join their dynamic team in East London. This role is pivotal in assessing, pricing, and managing commercial property risks for a diverse client base. You will be responsible for analyzing property values, potential hazards, and market conditions to develop comprehensive insurance solutions. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced underwriter to contribute to a key segment of the insurance market and build strong relationships with brokers and clients in the East London area. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of property insurance principles and risk management.
Key Responsibilities
- Underwrite new and renewal commercial property insurance policies, accurately assessing risks.
- Evaluate property details, including construction, occupancy, fire protection, and hazard exposures.
- Determine appropriate premiums, deductibles, and policy terms and conditions.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with brokers, agents, and clients.
- Analyze market trends and competitor activity to ensure competitive pricing and product offerings.
- Collaborate with the claims department to understand loss trends and underwriting impacts.
- Ensure compliance with underwriting guidelines, company policies, and regulatory requirements.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of underwriting decisions and policy details.
- Identify opportunities for portfolio growth and cross-selling relevant insurance products.
- Provide technical underwriting support and guidance to internal teams and external partners within the Eastern Cape.
Requirements
- A Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Finance, Real Estate, or a related field.
- Professional insurance qualifications (e.g., CIP, ACII) are highly advantageous.
- Minimum of 4 years of experience in commercial property underwriting or a related insurance role.
- Demonstrated expertise in assessing and managing commercial property risks.
- Strong understanding of property construction, hazards, risk mitigation strategies, and insurance principles.
- Excellent analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
- Effective communication, negotiation, and interpersonal abilities.
- Proficiency in underwriting software, risk assessment tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to manage a caseload efficiently and work effectively within a hybrid environment.
- Knowledge of the commercial real estate market in South Africa, particularly the East London region, is beneficial.
- Commitment to delivering excellent service and maintaining high professional standards.
Benefits
- competitive salary
- a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and life insurance
- Opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career advancement
- hybrid model, combining in-office collaboration in East London with remote work flexibility