Senior Commercial Underwriter

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance-based incentives

Continuous learning

Career development

Remote-friendly environment

Durban market focus

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Commercial Underwriter for a remote role serving Durban and KwaZulu-Natal. You will assess complex commercial applications, develop coverage terms and pricing, and build broker relationships.

The ideal candidate holds a tertiary insurance qualification (CIP/ACII), 6+ years in underwriting, and FAIS accreditation with RE examinations. Remote work requires strong analytics and SA market expertise.

Qualifications

• Relevant tertiary qualification or professional insurance qualification (e.g., CIP, ACII).
• Minimum of 6 years of comprehensive experience in commercial lines underwriting.
• Proven ability to underwrite various commercial risks, such as property, liability, fleet, and business interruption.
• Strong analytical and financial assessment skills.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in underwriting systems and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate initiative in a remote environment.
• Understanding of the South African commercial insurance market is essential.
• FAIS accreditation and RE examinations required.

Responsibilities

• Underwrite new and renewal commercial insurance business within established guidelines and appetite.
• Analyze financial statements, business operations, and risk exposures to determine appropriate coverage and pricing.
• Develop and negotiate terms, conditions, and pricing for complex commercial risks.
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with brokers and agents.
• Monitor portfolio performance, identify trends, and recommend actions to optimize profitability.
• Stay abreast of market developments, regulatory changes, and competitor activities.
• Provide technical guidance and support to junior underwriters and support staff.
• Conduct risk surveys and site visits when necessary (remote focus is primary).
• Ensure accurate and timely data entry and documentation within the underwriting system.
• Contribute to product development and enhancement initiatives.

Skills

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Remote work capability

Microsoft Office

Education

Relevant tertiary qualification or CIP/ACII

FAIS accreditation and RE examinations

Tools

Underwriting systems

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and growing insurance underwriter, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Commercial Underwriter to join their team based remotely, serving the Durban and KwaZulu-Natal region. This role is crucial for assessing and managing risk associated with commercial clients, ensuring profitable underwriting outcomes. The Senior Commercial Underwriter will be responsible for evaluating complex commercial insurance applications, developing appropriate coverage terms and pricing, and building strong relationships with brokers. You will utilize your in-depth knowledge of commercial insurance products, risk assessment techniques, and market trends to make sound underwriting decisions. This position demands strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a proactive approach to managing a diverse portfolio. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, detail-oriented, and possesses a proven track record of success in commercial underwriting. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned professional to leverage their expertise in a flexible, remote working arrangement.

Key Responsibilities

• Underwrite new and renewal commercial insurance business within established guidelines and appetite.
• Analyze financial statements, business operations, and risk exposures to determine appropriate coverage and pricing.
• Develop and negotiate terms, conditions, and pricing for complex commercial risks.
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with brokers and agents.
• Monitor portfolio performance, identify trends, and recommend actions to optimize profitability.
• Stay abreast of market developments, regulatory changes, and competitor activities.
• Provide technical guidance and support to junior underwriters and support staff.
• Conduct risk surveys and site visits when necessary (though remote focus is primary).
• Ensure accurate and timely data entry and documentation within the underwriting system.
• Contribute to product development and enhancement initiatives.

Requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualification or professional insurance qualification (e.g., CIP, ACII).
• Minimum of 6 years of comprehensive experience in commercial lines underwriting.
• Demonstrated expertise in underwriting various commercial risks, such as property, liability, fleet, and business interruption.
• Strong analytical and financial assessment skills.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage a portfolio effectively and meet financial targets.
• Proficiency in underwriting systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate initiative in a remote environment.
• Understanding of the South African commercial insurance market is essential.
• FAIS accreditation and relevant regulatory examinations (RE) required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience and the responsibilities of this senior role.
• As this is a remote position, it provides excellent flexibility and work-life balance.
• The company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, a provident fund, and potential performance-based incentives.
• Employees have access to continuous learning and professional development opportunities.
• Join a forward-thinking insurance company that values its team members and promotes a culture of collaboration and success.
• This role serves the Durban market and offers a significant opportunity for a skilled underwriter to excel remotely, contributing directly to the company's growth in KwaZulu-Natal .