Senior Underwriter - Commercial Lines

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Annual leave

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa’s Gauteng Midrand seeks an experienced Senior Underwriter to join a leading insurance client. You will assess and manage risk for a diverse commercial portfolio, set pricing, and guide brokers and clients with expert advice within company guidelines.

You will mentor junior underwriters, develop underwriting strategies, and ensure compliance while leveraging modern tools. A Bachelor's degree and 5–7 years in commercial lines are required, with ACII/FLMI desirable; a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Admin, Risk Management or related field.
• 5-7 years in commercial lines underwriting, property & casualty.
• ACII/FLMI designations desirable.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and evaluate complex commercial insurance applications to determine risk exposure and pricing.
• Develop and implement underwriting strategies to achieve profitability and market share goals.
• Underwrite new business, renewals, and endorsements for a diverse portfolio of commercial clients.
• Collaborate with brokers and agents to understand client needs and provide appropriate insurance solutions.
• Monitor market trends, regulatory changes, and competitor activities to inform underwriting decisions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant underwriting policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior underwriting staff.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of all underwriting activities.
• Negotiate terms, conditions, and pricing with clients and intermediaries.
• Contribute to the development and enhancement of underwriting tools and processes.

Skills

Analytical skills

Negotiation

Communication

Independent worker

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance or Risk Management

Tools

Underwriting software

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading insurance provider, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Underwriter to join their dynamic team in Midrand, Gauteng . This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated professional to contribute to the growth and success of the commercial lines division. The role involves assessing and managing risks associated with commercial insurance policies, ensuring profitability and adherence to company guidelines. You will be instrumental in developing and maintaining strong relationships with brokers and clients, providing expert advice and tailored solutions. This position offers a blend of strategic decision-making and operational execution within a supportive and professional environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and evaluate complex commercial insurance applications to determine risk exposure and pricing.
• Develop and implement underwriting strategies to achieve profitability and market share goals.
• Underwrite new business, renewals, and endorsements for a diverse portfolio of commercial clients.
• Collaborate with brokers and agents to understand client needs and provide appropriate insurance solutions.
• Monitor market trends, regulatory changes, and competitor activities to inform underwriting decisions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant underwriting policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior underwriting staff.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of all underwriting activities.
• Negotiate terms, conditions, and pricing with clients and intermediaries.
• Contribute to the development and enhancement of underwriting tools and processes.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, Risk Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of proven experience in commercial lines underwriting, with a strong focus on property and casualty.
• In-depth knowledge of commercial insurance products, market dynamics, and underwriting principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong negotiation and communication abilities, both written and verbal.
• Proficiency in using underwriting software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Relevant professional designations (e.g., ACII, FLMI) are highly desirable.
• Experience in the Gauteng region is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience, including a performance-based bonus structure. Employees benefit from comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning are actively encouraged, with support for relevant certifications and further education. A generous annual leave allowance and access to wellness programs are also provided. The Hybrid work model allows for a flexible balance between office-based collaboration and remote work, supporting a productive work-life integration.