Head of Underwriting Governance and Strategy

Location: Lusaka, Zambia

Reports to: Chief Underwriting Officer (CUO)

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Underwriting Governance and Strategy to join our team in Lusaka, Zambia. This pivotal role involves managing capacity deployment, establishing underwriting authorities, and ensuring strict adherence to underwriting guidelines. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of governance frameworks, risk management, and strategic planning to drive effective governance and strategic initiatives supporting our company’s growth.

Key Responsibilities

Governance Framework

• Establish and maintain a comprehensive 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.

Underwriting Risk Management

• Develop and maintain our underwriting risk appetite and monitor performance.
• Manage risk capacity deployment to ensure optimal use of capital.
• Conduct regular portfolio analyses to identify and mitigate emerging underwriting risks.

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.

Contract and Wording Assurance

• Oversee contract wording to 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.

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 thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.