Remote Underwriter (Specialty Lines)

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Underwriter for a globally recognized insurer expanding its specialty division. The role is remote-first and based in South Africa, focusing on cyber, E&O, D&O and Professional Liability underwriting.

You will evaluate complex risks, determine coverage, set premiums, and collaborate with brokers to explain decisions while staying aligned with regulatory requirements and market developments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Risk Management, or related field.
• 4+ years underwriting experience in specialty lines (Cyber, E&O, D&O, Professional Liability).
• Ability to analyze complex risks and make sound underwriting decisions.
• Knowledge of specialty insurance markets and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent remote communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and meet deadlines remotely.
• Proficiency in underwriting software and MS Office.
• South Africa-based and able to work remote-first.
• Professional designations (ACII, CPCU) advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Underwrite specialty insurance risks per guidelines and risk appetite.
• Analyze exposures and set coverage terms, conditions, pricing.
• Communicate with brokers and agents to gather info and explain decisions.
• Build relationships with distribution partners.
• Contribute to development of specialty lines products and strategies.
• Monitor portfolio performance and identify emerging risks.
• Collaborate with claims, actuarial and legal on complex cases.
• Stay current on market developments, regulatory changes, competitors.
• Use underwriting systems to manage workload and document decisions.
• Participate in virtual team meetings in a remote environment.

Skills

Risk analysis

Underwriting

Remote communication

Time management

Negotiation

Detail oriented

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business/Finance/Risk Mgmt

Tools

Underwriting software

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized insurer, is expanding its specialty lines division and seeks a skilled Remote Underwriter to join their fully remote team. This position offers the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa , focusing on underwriting complex and niche insurance products. You will be responsible for evaluating risks, determining appropriate coverage, and setting premiums for specialty lines such as cyber liability, professional indemnity, or directors and officers liability. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced underwriter looking for a remote-first role with a company that values innovation and expertise.

Key Responsibilities

• Underwrite specialty insurance risks in accordance with company guidelines and risk appetite.
• Analyze complex exposures and determine appropriate coverage terms, conditions, and pricing.
• Communicate effectively with brokers and agents to gather information and explain underwriting decisions.
• Develop strong relationships with key distribution partners.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of specialty lines products and underwriting strategies.
• Monitor portfolio performance and identify potential emerging risks or trends.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including claims, actuarial, and legal, on complex cases.
• Stay current on market developments, regulatory changes, and competitor activities in specialty lines.
• Utilize underwriting systems and tools efficiently to manage workload and document decisions.
• Participate in virtual team meetings and contribute to a collaborative remote work environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Risk Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of underwriting experience, with a significant focus on specialty lines of insurance (e.g., Cyber, E&O, D&O, Professional Liability).
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex risks and make sound underwriting decisions.
• Strong understanding of specialty insurance markets, products, and relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, adapted for remote interaction.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines in a remote setting.
• Proficiency in underwriting software and standard office applications (Microsoft Office Suite).
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and proactive.
• Based within South Africa and able to work effectively in a remote-first culture.
• Professional designations (e.g., ACII, CPCU) are advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Full remote work arrangement, offering significant flexibility.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Generous pension fund contributions.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, including specialized training.
• Work with a forward-thinking, innovative insurance company.
• Generous paid time off.