Old Mutual is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Team Leader – Underwriting to lead and oversee underwriting operations. The successful candidate will manage a team of sales representatives, ensure accurate risk assessment and acceptance, drive business growth, maintain strong client relationships, and ensure compliance with regulatory and company requirements.
About Old Mutual
Old Mutual is a premium African financial services organisation offering a broad spectrum of financial solutions to retail and corporate customers across key market segments in 14 countries. Its businesses include Life and Savings, Property and Casualty, Asset Management, and Banking and Lending. Old Mutual is rooted in its purpose of Championing Mutually Positive Futures Every Day and believes that a great customer experience is anchored in a great employee experience.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Insurance
- Closing Date: 2026-07-26
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, coach, and mentor a team of underwriters to achieve departmental objectives and maintain high-performance standards.
- Prospect for new business opportunities, conduct client meetings, and negotiate terms to secure and retain profitable accounts.
- Oversee preparation and issuance of quotations, policy documents, endorsements, cover notes, and policy renewals.
- Ensure accurate processing of policies through relevant systems, including Icecash and Zinara Licensing platforms.
- Monitor compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements and maintain proper documentation in PURE.
- Assess, underwrite, and approve complex risks while ensuring adherence to underwriting guidelines, policies, and procedures.
- Conduct and oversee risk surveys and implement appropriate risk management measures.
- Develop and manage sales pipelines to support business growth and client retention.
- Build and maintain relationships with clients, brokers, reinsurers, and other stakeholders.
- Manage reinsurance arrangements and ensure appropriate placement of risks.
- Oversee credit control processes to support timely premium collection.
- Assist with claims queries.
- Identify opportunities to improve underwriting processes, service delivery, and portfolio performance.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Insurance and Risk Management.
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in Short-Term Insurance, with exposure to underwriting and portfolio management.
- Proven leadership or supervisory experience within an insurance environment will be an added advantage.
- Strong technical underwriting, risk assessment, and negotiation skills.
- Sound knowledge of insurance regulations, AML requirements, and industry best practices.
- Excellent communication, relationship management, and customer service skills.
- Required Skills: Action Planning, Agent Training, Business Opportunities, Claims Management, Financial Auditing, Insurance Claims Investigations, Insurance Risk Management, Leadership, Portfolio Management, Relationship Management, Underwriting
- Competencies: Business Insight, Communicates Effectively, Decision Quality, Directs Work, Ensures Accountability, Financial Acumen, Instills Trust, Manages Complexity
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: oldmutual.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com
REF Code: JR-81628 | Job Code: JR-81628
Frequently Asked Questions
What academic qualifications and professional certifications are typically required for an Underwriting Team Leader role in Zimbabwe?
A relevant Bachelor's degree in fields like Insurance, Actuarial Science, or Business Studies is usually a prerequisite. Professional qualifications such as ACII, AIISA, or local equivalents from institutions like the Insurance Institute of Zimbabwe are highly regarded and often expected.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of an Underwriting Team Leader in the Zimbabwean insurance sector?
You would manage a team of underwriters, overseeing complex risk assessments and ensuring adherence to company guidelines and local regulations. This involves reviewing policy applications, providing technical guidance, and driving team performance to meet business objectives.
How would you describe the typical work culture and expectations for a Team Leader in a Zimbabwean financial services environment?
The culture generally emphasizes professionalism, strict adherence to procedures, and strong collaborative teamwork. Expect an environment focused on meeting targets, continuous professional development, and maintaining high ethical standards in service delivery.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for an Underwriting Team Leader within a Zimbabwean insurance company?
Successful Team Leaders can typically advance to Senior Underwriting Manager, Head of Underwriting, or transition into broader risk management roles. Continued professional development and demonstrated leadership capabilities are key to these advancements.
What kind of benefits package can one realistically expect for an Underwriting Team Leader position in Zimbabwe?
Reputable financial institutions in Zimbabwe usually offer a competitive benefits package, including medical aid, pension fund contributions, and a structured leave plan. Additional benefits often include group life assurance and support for ongoing professional development.