Senior SME Commercial Underwriter - Hybrid Role

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 540,000 - 780,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid & retirement contributions

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Insurance Underwriter to join our SME commercial lines team in a hybrid role based in Benoni, Gauteng. You will evaluate risks, set terms and pricing, and drive profitable SME growth while working closely with brokers.

The role requires strong analytical and decision‑making skills, proficiency with underwriting systems and MS Office, and the ability to manage a diverse book of business. Hybrid work supports office and remote tasks.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years in commercial insurance underwriting focused on SME.
• Knowledge of property, general liability, and business interruption.
• Proficient in underwriting systems and MS Office.
• Hybrid work readiness and commutable to Benoni.

Responsibilities

• Underwrite new and renewal SME commercial policies (property, liability, related coverages).
• Assess risk exposures from financial information, operations and industry factors.
• Determine premiums, terms and conditions per risk and guidelines.
• Develop and maintain broker/agent relationships and provide underwriting support.
• Monitor SME portfolio performance and identify trends.
• Collaborate with claims on risk factors and loss trends.
• Stay updated on market, regulatory changes and competitors in SME insurance.
• Contribute to underwriting guidelines and product offerings.
• Manage portfolio within authority limits.
• Mentor junior underwriters as needed.

Skills

Analytical skills

Decision-making

Communication

Negotiation

Time management

Education

Insurance qualification (NQF Level 5)

Progress towards qualification

Tools

Underwriting systems

MS Office

Job description

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Insurance Underwriter to join our SME commercial lines team in a hybrid role based in Benoni, Gauteng. You will evaluate risks, set terms and pricing, and drive profitable SME growth while working closely with brokers.

The role requires strong analytical and decision‑making skills, proficiency with underwriting systems and MS Office, and the ability to manage a diverse book of business. Hybrid work supports office and remote tasks.