Trainee Underwriter at Old Mutual South Africa

Job Description

Old Mutual South Africa invites suitably qualified candidates to apply for Trainee positions within its vibrant Underwriting Team in Pinelands, Cape Town. If you are dynamic, articulate, goal directed, with high energy, a positive attitude and passion, read more about this exciting opportunity.

This Underwriter Development Programme position prepares participants for a career in underwriting, through a robust in-house training program. The underwriting interns will learn about our underwriting philosophy, business unit products, strategies, principles of negotiation and relationship building.

The Underwriter Development Programme will span over a period of twelve (12) months.  During the 12 month period, candidates will be assessed by way of examinations, assignments and practical application of knowledge. As knowledge base increases, participants will gradually be given more responsibility within the department.

Underwriters on the Development Programme will begin by handling low risk business and capturing of medical information under the supervision of an Underwriter and gradually progress to more advanced levels of risk assessment as their skills develop.

At the end of the twelve month period comprehensive audits will be conducted to establish overall quality of work and decision making capability.

Success will be measured by a predetermined minimum pass rate. After successful completion of the 12 month Underwriter Development Programme candidates will be appointed permanently as an Underwriter.

Responsibilities

• Be responsible for underwriting decisions, under the supervision of a mentor.
• Effectively handle all intermediary enquires and give advice re specific requirements and impairments.
• Accurately capture underwriting information into the product administration system.
• Provide written communication to clients and distribution channels.
• Keep abreast of developments and trends in areas of expertise.
• Uphold and maintain the image of Underwriting and Old Mutual by always maintaining the highest standard in client care.
• Develop critical underwriting skills, through classroom, independent, and on-the-job training, including analysis of exposures, determination of appropriate insurance coverage and conditions.
• Gather and review information on financial conditions, risk exposures, and economic trends that may affect the risk provided.
• Establish, support, and maintain effective relationships with customers, agents and broke

Requirements

• Matric with Biology or Mathematics or Accounting
• Relevant Tertiary Qualification highly advantageous.
• PC proficiency
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Strong planning, organising and time-management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure whilst still maintaining a professional image.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Innovative and energetic, strong team player.
• Well developed written & verbal communication skills (fully bilingual, English and one other official language) essential.
• Must be willing to work overtime where necessary.
• Must demonstrate a strong customer focus
• Strong telephony skills