Cape Town Lead Underwriter - Strategy & Team Growth

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental

Pension fund contributions

Relocation assistance

Professional certifications

Training and development

Cape Town office environment

Wellness programs

Job summary

A prestigious insurance firm in Cape Town seeks a seasoned Lead Underwriter to drive underwriting strategy, lead a team, and ensure profitability of the book. You will assess risks, set pricing, and collaborate with sales, claims, and actuarial teams in a dynamic South African market.

The role is on-site in Cape Town and offers a collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and development in underwriting leadership.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in insurance underwriting with leadership experience
• Expertise in risk assessment, pricing and portfolio management
• Knowledge of SA insurance market and regulations
• Strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficient in underwriting software and analytical tools
• Relevant degree in Business, Finance, Actuarial Science or related field
• Ability to make independent decisions under pressure
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of underwriters, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Develop and execute underwriting strategies and guidelines to achieve profitability and growth targets.
• Analyze complex risks, evaluate exposures, and determine appropriate terms, conditions, and pricing for insurance policies.
• Review and approve submissions from underwriters, providing guidance on difficult or unusual cases.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and regulatory changes impacting the underwriting function.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to support business development and retention efforts.
• Ensure compliance with internal underwriting standards and external regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to product development and enhancement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Risk assessment

Pricing

Portfolio management

Communication

Decision making under pressure

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Actuarial Science, or related

Tools

Underwriting software

Analytical tools

Job description

A prestigious insurance firm in Cape Town seeks a seasoned Lead Underwriter to drive underwriting strategy, lead a team, and ensure profitability of the book. You will assess risks, set pricing, and collaborate with sales, claims, and actuarial teams in a dynamic South African market.

The role is on-site in Cape Town and offers a collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and development in underwriting leadership.