Remote Senior Underwriter - Specialty P&C

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work

Global development

Generous leave

Cutting-edge tools

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Underwriter to join its international P&C team. This remote-first role allows you to leverage deep expertise from anywhere in South Africa to underwrite complex specialty risks, build profitable portfolios, and guide support teams.

You will work autonomously, stay ahead of market changes, collaborate with brokers and internal partners, and contribute to product development while adhering to regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years underwriting experience with specialty P&C.
• Ability to underwrite complex risks and structure insurance solutions.
• Strong understanding of contracts, market dynamics, and regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Underwrite complex specialty P&C risks per guidelines.
• Analyze financial statements and loss history to price risk.
• Develop relationships with brokers and agents.
• Identify profitable growth opportunities.
• Monitor portfolio performance and manage risk.

Skills

Analytical skills

Decision-making

Negotiation skills

Education

Tertiary qualification in Commerce/Finance/Risk Mgmt

Tools

Underwriting systems

Office productivity software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished global insurer, is seeking an experienced and strategic Senior Underwriter to join their specialized Property & Casualty (P&C) team. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to leverage your expertise from anywhere in South Africa. You will be responsible for underwriting complex specialty P&C risks, developing profitable business portfolios, and providing expert guidance to support teams. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of niche insurance markets, strong analytical capabilities, and a proven ability to make sound underwriting decisions. This remote-first role is perfect for a self-motivated professional who excels in independent work environments and seeks to contribute to a leading international insurer. Our client provides robust digital infrastructure and support to ensure seamless remote operations and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Underwrite complex and large specialty Property & Casualty risks according to company guidelines and risk appetite.
• Analyze financial statements, loss history, and other data to assess risk and determine appropriate pricing and terms.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with brokers and agents, acting as a key point of contact.
• Identify opportunities for profitable growth within assigned specialty lines.
• Monitor portfolio performance, identify trends, and take proactive measures to manage risk and profitability.
• Collaborate with claims, legal, and product development teams to ensure comprehensive risk management.
• Provide technical underwriting expertise and guidance to less experienced underwriters.
• Stay abreast of market changes, competitor activities, and emerging risks within specialty P&C lines.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and internal policies.
• Contribute to the development of new underwriting strategies and products.

Requirements

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Commerce, Finance, Risk Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of underwriting experience, with a significant focus on specialty P&C lines (e.g., Construction, Energy, Marine, Cyber, Professional Liability).
• Demonstrated expertise in analyzing complex risks and structuring appropriate insurance solutions.
• Strong understanding of insurance contracts, market dynamics, and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent analytical, decision-making, and negotiation skills.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with external partners.
• Proficiency in underwriting systems and standard office productivity software.
• Proven ability to work autonomously and manage a demanding workload effectively in a remote setting.
• Strong commitment to ethical underwriting practices and client service.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and possess a reliable internet connection.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure reflecting expertise and contribution.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund benefits.
• Fully remote work arrangement offering significant flexibility and work-life balance.
• Opportunities for global professional development and advanced training.
• Generous annual leave and paid time off.
• Access to cutting-edge underwriting tools and platforms.
• Performance-driven incentives and recognition programs.
• A collaborative and inclusive virtual work environment.
• Career advancement opportunities within an international organization.
• Support for continuing professional development and certifications.