Senior Underwriting Specialist - Commercial Lines

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Comprehensive medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work model

Access to underwriting tools and tech

Generous leave and wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a leading insurance provider in Midrand, Gauteng to hire a Senior Underwriting Specialist. You will assess risks, set policy terms, and drive profitability across commercial lines, working closely with brokers and internal teams.

The role demands strong analytical and negotiation skills, a solid grasp of underwriting software, and the ability to explain complex concepts clearly. A hybrid work model is offered to balance collaboration with flexibility.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of progressive commercial lines underwriting experience.
• Deep knowledge of commercial insurance products (property, liability, casualty).
• Ability to interpret complex financial statements and risk assessments.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Excellent negotiation and communication abilities.
• Proficiency with underwriting software and MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and evaluate commercial insurance applications and exposures.
• Determine policy terms, conditions, and pricing based on risk and market analysis.
• Build relationships with brokers and agents to grow and retain business.
• Collaborate with claims, actuarial and sales teams on strategy.
• Monitor portfolio performance and identify risks and trends.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and guidelines.
• Mentor junior underwriting staff and support professional development.
• Review and adjust policies as risk profiles or market conditions change.

Skills

Analytical abilities

Negotiation

Communication

Risk assessment

Underwriting software

MS Office

Relationship management

Education

Tertiary qualification in Business/Finance/Risk Management

Tools

Underwriting software

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading insurance provider, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Underwriting Specialist to join their dynamic team in Midrand, Gauteng . This role is integral to assessing risks, determining policy terms, and ensuring the profitability of commercial insurance products. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the insurance landscape, strong analytical abilities, and a commitment to upholding the company's reputation for excellence. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a growing organization while developing your career within the insurance sector. You will be part of a collaborative environment that values expertise and encourages professional growth. We are looking for an individual who can make a significant impact from day one, bringing a proactive approach to complex underwriting challenges in the bustling economic hub of Midrand.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and evaluate insurance applications for commercial risks, assessing exposures and potential liabilities.
• Determine appropriate policy terms, conditions, and pricing based on risk assessment and market analysis.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with brokers and agents to facilitate business growth and retention.
• Collaborate with claims, actuarial, and sales teams to ensure a cohesive and effective insurance strategy.
• Monitor portfolio performance and identify trends or emerging risks within the commercial insurance market.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal underwriting guidelines.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior underwriting staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.
• Review and adjust existing policies based on changes in risk profiles or market conditions.

Requirements

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Business, Finance, Risk Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in commercial lines underwriting within the insurance industry.
• In-depth knowledge of various commercial insurance products, including property, liability, and casualty.
• Proven ability to interpret complex financial statements and risk assessments.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong negotiation and communication abilities, with the capacity to explain complex insurance concepts clearly.
• Proficiency in insurance underwriting software and MS Office Suite.
• Demonstrated experience in relationship management with external stakeholders.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package, reflecting your expertise and experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development, including industry certifications and further training.
• A hybrid work model, balancing office collaboration with personal flexibility.
• Access to cutting-edge underwriting tools and technologies.
• Generous leave allowance and other employee wellness programs.
• Be part of a supportive and growth-oriented team in a leading financial services company.