Head of Underwriting Governance and Strategy
Location: Lusaka, Zambia
Reports to: Chief Underwriting Officer (CUO)
Position Overview
The Head of Underwriting Governance and Strategy will be responsible for managing capacity deployment, establishing underwriting authorities, and ensuring compliance with underwriting guidelines. This role requires a strong understanding of governance frameworks, risk management, and strategic planning. The ideal candidate will drive effective governance and strategic initiatives to support the company’s growth.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Governance Framework
Establish and maintain a robust underwriting governance framework.
Define and implement underwriting authorities and guidelines across the group▪️Ensure compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements in collaboration with the
risk & compliance officer.
2. Underwriting Risk Management
Develop and maintain our underwriting risk appetite and monitor performance
Monitor and manage risk capacity deployment to ensure optimal use of capital.▪️Conduct regular portfolio analysis to identify and mitigate emerging underwriting risks.
3. Strategic Planning
Collaborate with the CUO to develop and implement strategic initiatives.
Align underwriting strategies with overall business objectives and growth targets.
Provide strategic insights and recommendations to enhance portfolio performance.
4. Contract and Wording Assurance
Oversee contract wording and ensure consistency and clarity in policy terms.
Collaborate with legal and compliance teams to review and update contract terms.
Ensure all contracts align with the company’s risk appetite and underwriting guidelines.
5. Team Leadership
Lead, mentor, and develop the underwriting governance and strategy team.
Foster a culture of compliance, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Provide training and professional development opportunities to team members.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Law, Business Administration, or a related field.
Minimum of 3-7 years of experience in underwriting governance and strategy within the reinsurance or insurance industry.
Strong understanding of governance frameworks and risk management principles.
Excellent analytical, strategic planning, and decision-making skills.
Strong leadership and communication skills.
Ability to work effectively in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.