Senior Underwriter - Commercial Lines

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg invites an experienced Senior Underwriter to join our commercial lines team in the office. You will assess, price, and manage complex commercial risks, driving profitable growth for the North West region.

The role demands strong analytical and negotiation skills, collaboration with brokers, and leadership of junior underwriters. Based in a busy office, you will stay abreast of market trends and regulatory developments while mentoring others.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Finance, Risk Management, or related field.
• ACII or CIP qualifications are advantageous.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in commercial lines underwriting.
• Proven track record underwriting a diverse range of commercial risks.
• Strong financial analysis, risk assessment, and pricing knowledge.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in underwriting systems and MS Office.
• Ability to work independently and in a busy office.

Responsibilities

• Underwrite new and renewal commercial policies per guidelines.
• Analyze financial statements and loss history to assess risk.
• Determine premiums, terms, and conditions for complex policies.
• Build relationships with brokers to develop new business.
• Collaborate with claims and risk control teams for solutions.
• Monitor portfolio performance and identify trends.
• Stay informed on market changes and regulatory developments.
• Mentor junior underwriters and support team development.
• Contribute to development of underwriting strategies and tools.
• Ensure adherence to underwriting controls and documentation standards.

Skills

Analytical skills

Negotiation

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Underwriting systems

MS Office

Independent worker

Education

Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Finance, Risk Management or related field

ACII/CIP qualification (advantageous)

Tools

Underwriting systems

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for an experienced and astute Senior Underwriter to join their bustling commercial lines division in Rustenburg. This role is based in the office, fostering a collaborative environment where you can leverage your expertise alongside a team of seasoned professionals. You will be responsible for assessing, selecting, and pricing complex commercial risks, ensuring profitable growth for the company. This position requires a deep understanding of commercial insurance products, risk assessment techniques, and market trends. You will play a vital role in evaluating submissions, setting terms and conditions, and managing a portfolio of commercial insurance business. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, excellent negotiation abilities, and a proven track record in underwriting profitability within the North West region.

Key Responsibilities

• Underwrite new and renewal commercial insurance business according to company guidelines and appetite.
• Analyze financial statements, risk management programs, and loss history to assess risk.
• Determine appropriate premiums, terms, and conditions for complex commercial policies.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with brokers and agents to develop new business opportunities.
• Collaborate with claims and risk control teams to provide comprehensive solutions to clients.
• Monitor portfolio performance and identify trends, making recommendations for adjustments.
• Stay abreast of market changes, competitor activities, and regulatory developments.
• Mentor junior underwriters and contribute to team development.
• Participate in the development and refinement of underwriting strategies and tools.
• Ensure adherence to underwriting controls and documentation standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Finance, Risk Management, or a related field.
• Professional underwriting qualifications (e.g., ACII, CIP) are highly advantageous.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in commercial lines underwriting.
• Proven expertise in underwriting a diverse range of commercial risks (e.g., property, liability, commercial auto).
• Strong understanding of financial analysis, risk assessment, and pricing methodologies.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in underwriting systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a busy office environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.