Senior Underwriter - Marine & Cargo Insurance

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Bonus incentives

Medical aid and retirement fund

Generous annual leave

Professional development

International training

Career progression

Certification support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Underwriter to lead Marine and Cargo insurance initiatives from Polokwane, Limpopo. You will assess complex shipping risks, set terms, and price coverage while shaping underwriting strategies and broker relationships on an international scale.

The role requires deep regulatory understanding, strong negotiation skills, and a track record of profitable portfolio management within marine lines of business.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of dedicated underwriting experience in Marine and Cargo
• In-depth knowledge of hull, machinery, protection and indemnity, and cargo insurance principles
• Ability to analyze complex shipping and logistics risks and develop coverage solutions
• Strong understanding of international trade, maritime law, and related regulations
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Experience working with international markets and diverse clientele
• ACII or equivalent certification

Responsibilities

• Underwrite complex Marine and Cargo insurance risks, assessing exposures and determining terms, conditions, and pricing.
• Develop and implement underwriting strategies to achieve profitable growth within the marine portfolio.
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with brokers and clients in the marine insurance sector.
• Monitor the performance of the marine and cargo book, identifying trends and potential areas for improvement.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to less experienced underwriters and support staff.
• Ensure compliance with underwriting guidelines, regulatory requirements, and company policies.
• Collaborate with the claims department to ensure effective risk management and loss control.
• Stay abreast of industry developments, market trends, and emerging risks in marine and cargo insurance.
• Participate in market analysis and product development initiatives for the marine line of business.

Skills

Marine underwriting

Cargo underwriting

Risk assessment

Broker relationships

Regulatory knowledge

Negotiation

Education

ACII or equivalent

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialized insurer with a global reach, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Underwriter to focus on their Marine and Cargo insurance portfolio. This critical role is based in Polokwane , Limpopo , and requires an expert in assessing and managing the unique risks associated with maritime and cargo transportation. The Senior Underwriter will be responsible for evaluating complex risks, setting appropriate terms and conditions, developing pricing strategies, and managing key broker relationships within this niche market. This is a prime opportunity for a seasoned professional to leverage their specialized knowledge and contribute to the strategic growth of our client's marine insurance division. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of international shipping, cargo handling, risk mitigation techniques, and the relevant legal and regulatory frameworks. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring the profitability and sustainability of the marine insurance book. The position demands strong analytical skills, excellent judgment, and the ability to make informed underwriting decisions in a challenging environment. Join a respected organization that values expertise and offers significant professional development.

Key Responsibilities

• Underwrite complex Marine and Cargo insurance risks, assessing exposures and determining terms, conditions, and pricing.
• Develop and implement underwriting strategies to achieve profitable growth within the marine portfolio.
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with brokers and clients in the marine insurance sector.
• Monitor the performance of the marine and cargo book, identifying trends and potential areas for improvement.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to less experienced underwriters and support staff.
• Ensure compliance with underwriting guidelines, regulatory requirements, and company policies.
• Collaborate with the claims department to ensure effective risk management and loss control.
• Stay abreast of industry developments, market trends, and emerging risks in marine and cargo insurance.
• Participate in market analysis and product development initiatives for the marine line of business.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of dedicated underwriting experience in Marine and Cargo insurance.
• In-depth knowledge of hull, machinery, protection and indemnity, and cargo insurance principles and practices.
• Proven ability to analyze complex shipping and logistics risks and develop appropriate coverage solutions.
• Strong understanding of international trade, maritime law, and related regulations.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Demonstrated analytical and decision-making capabilities.
• Relevant professional insurance qualifications (e.g., ACII or equivalent).
• Experience working with international markets and diverse clientele.
• Ability to work independently and contribute effectively within a team environment in Limpopo .
• Proficiency in underwriting systems and standard office software.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package tailored to expertise and experience.
• Performance-based bonus incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and international training.
• Exposure to a specialized and globally significant insurance market.
• A stable and reputable work environment in Polokwane .
• Potential for career advancement into senior management roles.
• Support for industry-specific certifications and conferences.