Shape Your Future With Us
General Re Corporation, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., is a holding company for global reinsurance and related operations, with more than 2,000 employees worldwide. It owns General Reinsurance Corporation and General Reinsurance AG, which conducts business as Gen Re.
Gen Re delivers reinsurance solutions to the Life/Health and Property/Casualty insurance industries. Represented in all major reinsurance markets through a network of 37 offices, we have earned superior financial strength ratings from each of the major rating agencies. We value diversity, equality and inclusion and promote a culture that supports professional and personal growth.
General Reinsurance, Cape Town Branch (a subsidary of General Reinsurance AG) is offering an opportunity for Life Products Underwriter in our Life Australia, UK, SA, Canada division.
Key Responsibilities
This role focuses on servicing the Canadian market while being based in our Cape Town office.
Reporting directly to the Chief Underwriting Officer in Canada, and working as part of the Canadian underwriting team, the successful candidate will:
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Take sole responsibility for underwriting Canadian facultative applications
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Provide a consistently high-quality service experience to Canadian clients
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Collaborate with colleagues across markets to uphold excellence in underwriting standards
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This position offers the chance to work in an international environment, combining local presence with global impact
The Life Products Underwriter will apply sound underwriting judgement in the assessment of facultative risks referred by client companies. A key requirement of the role is the ability to ensure timely turnaround of cases in line with agreed service standards, while maintaining the highest levels of accuracy and quality.
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Underwrite facultative life and health risks for the Canadian market
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Ensure efficient case turnaround times aligned to client service level agreements
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Apply strong technical expertise and sound judgement in complex risk assessments
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Engage effectively with Canadian clients and internal stakeholders at a senior level
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Contribute to enhancing the company’s service offering and market presence in Canada
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Provide support to Actuarial, Administrative, and Marketing teams
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Participate in ad hoc cross-functional and strategic projects
Qualifications & Experience
We are seeking high-caliber candidates who are experienced, detail-oriented underwriters with strong technical expertise.
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A minimum of 6 years’ underwriting experience
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A qualification in health or allied health sciences, business, finance, economics, or a related bachelor’s degree
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Significant experience in evaluating and resolving complex and non-standard underwriting cases
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Proven track record in managing both underwriting and client relationship responsibilities effectively, consistently delivering a high standard of professional service
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts in a clear, concise, and structured manner to both internal and external stakeholders
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A self-sufficient and resourceful professional who demonstrates flexibility, strong time management, and the ability to prioritise effectively in a high-volume environment
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An affinity for technology and innovation, supported by strong software skills
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Ability to work effectively within a collaborative team environment
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A strong commitment to adhering to internal procedures and policies, with a focus on maintaining quality standards and contributing to overall business performance and shareholder value
The ideal candidate will:
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Demonstrate the ability to work independently with a high level of accountability
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Possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills
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Be self-motivated, proactive, and performance-driven
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Communicate with confidence and credibility at senior levels
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Thrive in an entrepreneurial and fast-paced environment
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Show the potential and ambition to take on more strategic responsibilities over time
Contact
Human Resources
Our Address
General Reinsurance Africa Ltd.
(Reinsurer licensed to conduct composite insurance business)
2nd Floor, Waterway House North, 3 Dock Road V&A Waterfront,
Cape Town, 8001 (South Africa)
Preference will be given, but not limited to, candidates from designated groups in terms of the Employment Equity Act and our employment equity policy.
