Senior Underwriter - Commercial Property

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid

Provident fund

Generous leave provisions

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Underwriter (Commercial Property) in Sandton, Gauteng. You will assess risks, develop underwriting strategies, and nurture broker/client relationships to drive profitable growth.

The role emphasizes regulatory compliance, mentoring junior underwriters, and collaboration with claims to optimize risk management. A strong SA market understanding is essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of proven experience in commercial property underwriting in SA.
• A relevant tertiary qualification in Risk Management, Finance, or Commerce.
• Strong understanding of commercial property insurance principles and risk assessment.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving and decision‑making skills, detail oriented.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and interpersonal abilities with stakeholders.
• Proficiency in underwriting software and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative team.
• Knowledge of the Sandton, Gauteng business landscape is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and evaluate commercial property risks for new and existing policies.
• Develop underwriting strategies for profitable growth and market share.
• Build relationships with brokers, agents and clients with technical guidance.
• Conduct market research on trends, competitors and opportunities.
• Collaborate with claims to share insights on risk factors and loss prevention.
• Mentor junior underwriters with best practices in commercial property underwriting.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies.
• Review renewal business and adjust coverage or pricing as needed.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Decision making

Communication

Negotiation

Interpersonal skills

Independent work

Teamwork

Underwriting

Risk assessment

Education

Risk Management

Finance

Commerce

Tools

MS Office

Underwriting software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading insurer, is seeking a highly experienced and detail-oriented Senior Underwriter specializing in Commercial Property to join their dynamic team in Sandton, Gauteng. This pivotal role involves assessing and managing risks associated with commercial property insurance policies, ensuring profitability and adherence to company guidelines. You will play a crucial part in developing and maintaining strong relationships with brokers and clients, providing expert advice on risk management strategies. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the South African insurance market and a proven track record in underwriting complex commercial property risks. This is an excellent opportunity to advance your career within a reputable and growing organization that values expertise and professional development. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of our commercial property portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and evaluate commercial property risks for new and existing policies, determining appropriate terms, conditions, and pricing.


• Develop and implement underwriting strategies to achieve profitable growth and market share targets for the commercial property segment.


• Build and nurture strong relationships with brokers, agents, and key clients, providing exceptional service and technical expertise.


• Conduct thorough market research to identify emerging trends, competitor activities, and new business opportunities within the commercial property insurance sector.


• Collaborate with the claims department to share insights on risk factors and contribute to loss prevention initiatives.


• Mentor and train junior underwriters, sharing knowledge and best practices in commercial property underwriting.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements and internal underwriting policies and procedures.


• Review and assess renewal business, making recommendations for adjustments to coverage or pricing based on risk assessment and market conditions.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of proven experience in commercial property underwriting within the South African insurance industry.


• A relevant tertiary qualification in Risk Management, Finance, Commerce, or a related field is highly desirable.


• Strong understanding of commercial property insurance principles, policy wordings, and risk assessment techniques.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills with a keen eye for detail.


• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with stakeholders at all levels.


• Proficiency in underwriting software and Microsoft Office Suite.


• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team in a fast-paced environment.


• Demonstrated ability to manage a challenging portfolio and meet performance objectives.


• Knowledge of the Sandton, Gauteng business landscape 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, a provident fund, and generous leave provisions.


• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including relevant certifications and training, are readily available.


• The company fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment, promoting work-life balance through a flexible hybrid working model.


• Additional perks include access to employee wellness programs and potential for career advancement within the organization.