Underwriting

Specialising

I’ve achieved my Certificate in Insurance Practice qualification and CIP designation and continue to complete 15 hours of CPD annually to keep my knowledge current. I’m working as a first-line manager or team leader in a regulated, specialist underwriting role. I have a broad understanding of insurance practice and a strong grasp of underwriting authority limits, which I use to manage a portfolio of risks. I make pricing decisions and identify special requirements for the classes of business I handle. My focus is on creating short-term value for my department while contributing to longer-term strategic goals for the organisation.

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What does an Insurance Underwriter do?

Hear from our education specialist about the key roles an Insurance Underwriter plays in the industry.

Underwriter Explained

Our education specialist goes over the role of an Insurance Underwriter

What do I do?

As an Insurance Underwriter, I need to possess a certain level of technical expertise in the following areas.

Technical expertise areas

Managing underwriting portfolio

I manage a portfolio of risks, applying a deep understanding of pricing methods and profitability measures. I use tools such as binding authorities and line slips where appropriate, and I recognise the associated benefits and risks. I identify special requirements for the classes of business I handle and ensure they are processed in line with organisational guidelines. I also monitor risk accumulation and aggregation to maintain a balanced and sustainable portfolio.

Interpreting policies

I apply my knowledge of policyholder rights and policy structures to ensure that underwriting decisions are fair, compliant, and aligned with business objectives. I understand how reserving policies and add-on services influence portfolio performance and use this insight to determine appropriate terms and conditions for each risk.

Following procedures

I consistently apply organisational procedures when processing risks, ensuring that all underwriting activity remains within my authority limits and is referred appropriately when required.

Customer focused

I understand how add-on services can enhance the customer experience and contribute to the performance of the underwriting portfolio. I apply this knowledge to deliver outcomes that meet both customer needs and business goals.

How do I work?

These are the professional skills & behaviours that I need to be a successful Insurance Underwriter.

I analyse complex situations and make strategic decisions that consider long-term outcomes and the needs of multiple stakeholders. I weigh competing priorities, anticipate potential consequences, and apply critical thinking to evaluate alternative solutions. I conduct in-depth analysis of data using appropriate statistical methods, draw meaningful conclusions, and communicate insights clearly. I also develop and test innovative ideas to address business challenges, adapting solutions based on feedback and results.
- Decision making
- Analysing data or information
- Innovative thinking
- Critical thinking
- Problem solving
- Strategic
I proactively seek out new ideas and challenge existing assumptions to improve how I work. I manage my own time and the time of others, delegate tasks effectively, and optimise team workflows. I ensure accuracy and quality in complex projects, implement quality control measures, and maintain detailed records. I use a variety of resources to solve problems and continuously look for ways to improve processes. I also share knowledge with others and contribute to the development of best practices within my team or department.
- Curiosity
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Resourcefulness
- Updating and using relevant knowledge
I adapt my communication style to suit different audiences and situations, using clear structure and appropriate tools to enhance understanding. I troubleshoot digital issues, customise tools to meet specific needs, and explore new technologies to improve efficiency. I listen actively, connect new information to existing knowledge, and apply it in different contexts. I interpret complex documents, summarise key information, and communicate findings in a way that supports decision-making.
- Digital literacy
- Communicating with stakeholders
- Business communication
- Active listening
- Reading comprehension
- Negotiation
I plan and prioritise multiple tasks and projects, develop timelines, and identify dependencies between activities. I actively seek information from a range of sources and build relationships to access relevant knowledge. I process complex data using advanced tools and techniques, identify and correct errors, and understand the implications of data structures. I manage competing priorities, anticipate potential conflicts, and adjust workloads to meet deadlines.
- Organising, planning and prioritising work
- Gathering information
- Processing information
- Multitasking
- Evaluating information
I build trust by being reliable, empathetic, and honest in my interactions. I collaborate effectively with others, share information, and coordinate work across teams. I listen to customers, anticipate their needs, and provide helpful solutions. I apply ethical principles in my work, recognise dilemmas, and consider the broader impact of decisions on others and the organisation.
- Relationship management
- Teamwork
- Customer service
- Ethical behaviour

Hear from Actual Insurance Underwriters

Dive into the daily life of an Insurance Underwriter.

Shane Doe

Video description.

Jane Doe

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Next Steps

Complete the MDI qualification by registering for the Autumn/Winter 2025 semester.

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