Senior Commercial Lines Underwriter

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Excellent medical aid

Provident fund and life insurance

Hybrid work model

Annual leave and wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Commercial Lines Underwriter for our client in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will evaluate, price, and underwrite complex risks, focusing on property, liability, and specialty lines while building strong broker relationships.

The ideal candidate has at least 6 years of underwriting experience, a Commerce/Finance-related degree, and professional designations such as CIP. A hybrid work model and ongoing professional development are offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Finance, Risk Management, or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years in commercial lines underwriting.
• Knowledge of General Liability, Commercial Property, and Business Interruption.
• Strong analytical, decision-making, and negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Underwrite new and renewal commercial insurance business following guidelines.
• Assess risks for property, liability, and specialty lines.
• Determine premiums and terms for complex policies.
• Build and maintain broker and client relationships.
• Collaborate with claims and loss control on risk mitigation.
• Mentor junior underwriters and support their development.
• Monitor market trends and competitor activity.
• Process quotes, endorsements, and renewals accurately.
• Contribute to portfolio reviews and strategic planning.

Skills

Underwriting

Risk assessment

Pricing

Negotiation

Communication

Underwriting systems

Team leadership

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Commerce/Finance

Tools

Underwriting software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Commercial Lines Underwriter to join their esteemed team in **Stellenbosch, Western Cape**. This role is integral to the company's success, focusing on evaluating, selecting, and pricing complex commercial insurance risks. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of commercial insurance products, a strong analytical aptitude, and the ability to build and maintain robust relationships with brokers and clients. You will play a crucial part in assessing business exposures, developing tailored insurance solutions, and ensuring profitable growth for the commercial lines portfolio. This position offers a significant opportunity to contribute to a leading insurer in the picturesque **Stellenbosch** region.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and underwrite new and renewal commercial insurance business, ensuring adherence to underwriting guidelines and appetite.
• Accurately assess risks associated with various commercial enterprises, including property, liability, and specialty lines.
• Determine appropriate premium rates and terms and conditions for complex policies.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with insurance brokers and agents, providing expert advice and support.
• Collaborate with claims and loss control teams to gather information and assess risk mitigation strategies.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of underwriting strategies and product offerings.
• Mentor junior underwriters and assist in their professional development.
• Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify opportunities and potential threats.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of quotes, endorsements, and policy renewals.
• Participate in portfolio reviews and contribute to strategic planning initiatives.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Finance, Risk Management, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 6 years of proven experience in commercial lines underwriting.
• In-depth knowledge of various commercial insurance products, including General Liability, Commercial Property, and Business Interruption.
• Strong analytical, decision‑making, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage with brokers and clients.
• Proficiency in underwriting systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Understanding of the South African insurance market and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Professional designations such as CIP or relevant underwriting certifications are highly advantageous for this **Stellenbosch, Western Cape** role.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance‑based bonuses and potential for profit sharing.
• Comprehensive benefits include excellent medical aid, a provident fund, and life insurance coverage.
• This role provides substantial opportunities for professional growth through continuous training, workshops, and industry certifications.
• The hybrid work model allows for a flexible work‑life balance, balancing office collaboration with remote flexibility.
• Based in the vibrant city of **Stellenbosch**, the position offers a rewarding work environment and lifestyle.
• Employees also enjoy a generous annual leave allowance and access to wellness programs.