Underwriting

Specialising

I have completed my Certificate in Insurance Practice (CIP) and maintain 15 hours of CPD annually. I work as a first-line manager or team leader in a regulated specialist underwriting role, managing a portfolio of risks within defined underwriting authority limits. My focus is on delivering short-term departmental value while contributing to the organisation’s longer-term strategic objectives, and I am now working towards my Higher Diploma in Insurance Management (MDI).

How can we help? Learn more about the MDI

Moving forward and expanding opportunities

David Flanagan - Education Development Specialist

Understand how expanding technical and transversal skills and acquiring the next qualification in the pathway can open doors to more varied roles and greater opportunities across the insurance sector

What I do

As a more experienced underwriting professional, I need to possess a certain level of technical expertise in the following areas.

Technical Expertise

Managing underwriting portfolio

I manage a portfolio of risks, applying a deep understanding of pricing methods and profitability measures. I may use 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 I work (transversal skills)

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.
- Active listening
- Communicating with stakeholders
- Business communication
- Digital literacy
- Reading comprehension
- Negotiation
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 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

Learn More. Do More. Be More.

Hear from real members about their career journeys.

Kerill Sutton, Allianz Ireland

I’ve been given incredible opportunities in my role, including gaining experience abroad on a mini mobility programme. I’ve also progressed internally and taken on greater responsibility. I'm still learning and hope to progress even further.

Cristina Rodina, KennCo Underwriting

I’m very grateful for the opportunities the insurance industry has given me, and I’m excited for what’s still ahead. With my qualifications, I now have real choices - from moving into new areas to pursuing higher-level qualifications.

Next steps

Kate is a senior underwriter with strategic influence. She manages complex portfolios, drives innovation, and is completing her Higher Diploma in Insurance Management (MDI).

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Overview