Lead Underwriter: Strategy, Growth & Mentorship

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Annual leave

Bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Underwriter in George, Western Cape to drive underwriting operations, guide a high-performing team, and shape risk-based pricing and product development. The role requires strategic leadership and deep risk expertise.

The successful candidate will lead cross-functional collaboration with actuarial, claims, and sales teams to deliver profitable growth and maintain high underwriting standards. A strong track record in leadership and risk analysis is essential.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in insurance underwriting with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Expertise in underwriting principles, risk analysis, and financial modeling.
• Knowledge of commercial, personal lines, and specialty insurance products.
• Strong leadership with ability to motivate a team.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Understanding of insurance market dynamics and regulatory frameworks.
• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Admin, Risk Management, or related field.
• ACII or FLMI designations are advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the underwriting team with mentorship, training, and evaluations.
• Develop and implement innovative underwriting strategies for profitable growth.
• Analyze complex risks across insurance lines for accurate pricing.
• Review and approve high-value or complex risks beyond standard authority.
• Collaborate with actuarial, claims, and sales to align underwriting with business objectives.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and regulatory changes.
• Ensure compliance with insurance regulations and company policies.
• Foster relationships with brokers and agents with expert underwriting advice.
• Contribute to development and launch of new insurance products.

Skills

Risk assessment

Leadership

Pricing

Financial modeling

Product development

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree

ACII/FLMI

Tools

Underwriting tools

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Underwriter in George, Western Cape to drive underwriting operations, guide a high-performing team, and shape risk-based pricing and product development. The role requires strategic leadership and deep risk expertise.

The successful candidate will lead cross-functional collaboration with actuarial, claims, and sales teams to deliver profitable growth and maintain high underwriting standards. A strong track record in leadership and risk analysis is essential.