Lead Underwriter - Specialty Lines

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

Benefits offered by this job

Salary bonus

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks an experienced Lead Underwriter to head the Specialty Lines division. You will develop underwriting strategies, set guidelines, and manage a team in a dynamic market.

You will assess complex risks, price policies, and collaborate with brokers and clients to deliver innovative solutions while ensuring regulatory compliance and profitable growth. The role requires senior leadership, strong analytics, and a proven track record guiding teams to excellence in specialty

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in insurance underwriting, with a focus on specialty lines.
• Proven leadership experience managing underwriting teams and guiding strategic direction.
• Strong knowledge of risk assessment, pricing models, and financial analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage underwriting of specialty lines insurance business.
• Develop and implement underwriting policies, pricing strategies and guidelines.
• Analyze complex risks and make informed underwriting decisions.
• Mentor junior staff and provide training and guidance.
• Ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with claims, actuarial and product development teams.
• Build relationships with brokers, agents and clients.

Skills

Leadership

Risk assessment

Pricing models

Negotiation

Communication

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Insurance, or related field

Tools

Underwriting software

Job description

Our client, a distinguished insurance underwriter, is seeking an experienced and strategic Lead Underwriter to spearhead their Specialty Lines division in Cape Town . This senior position is crucial for developing and executing underwriting strategies that drive profitable growth in niche insurance markets. The successful candidate will be responsible for assessing complex risks, setting underwriting guidelines, and leading a team of skilled underwriters. You will work closely with brokers and clients to understand market needs and develop innovative insurance solutions. This role demands exceptional analytical capabilities, a deep understanding of financial markets, and a proven ability to manage risk effectively. As a leader, you will foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement within the underwriting team, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and our client's risk appetite. The opportunity is based in the vibrant city of Cape Town , offering a chance to shape the future of specialty insurance in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the underwriting of specialty lines insurance business.
• Develop and implement underwriting policies, procedures, and pricing strategies.
• Analyze complex risks and make informed underwriting decisions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with brokers, agents, and clients.
• Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify new opportunities.
• Mentor and develop junior underwriting staff, providing training and guidance.
• Ensure compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with claims, actuarial, and product development teams.
• Contribute to the overall strategic direction of the underwriting department.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Insurance, or a related field.
• Extensive experience (8+ years) in insurance underwriting, with a significant focus on specialty lines.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing underwriting teams.
• Strong understanding of risk assessment, pricing models, and financial analysis.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to develop and execute successful underwriting strategies.
• Knowledge of relevant South African insurance regulations.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet challenging deadlines.
• Proficiency in underwriting software and data analysis tools.

Benefits

• Attractive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous paid time off and leave policies.
• Professional development opportunities, including certifications and training.
• A stimulating work environment in a prime Western Cape location.
• Opportunities for advancement within a globally recognized organization.