Underwriting Manager at Kenya Orient Insurance Limited

KEY TASKS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Revenue.

• Responsible for the growth of revenue to the set targets through retention & acquisition of new business on existing accounts and new ones.
• Responsible for the overall growth of revenue in Bonds, Engineering & Marine class.
• Champion cross-selling of KOIL products, identify and close insurance gaps, train intermediaries on products and lead innovative product development initiatives.

Cash Collection & Liquidity.

• Manage credit control and premium collection in line with credit policy.
• Oversee premium refunds, cancellations, and contras with precision, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.
• Drive credit policy enforcement and monitor branch-level debt movement daily to maintain strong financial control.

Loss Ratio.

• Ensure compliance with underwriting standards while managing pricing approvals and recommending strategic price reviews to strengthen the business portfolio.
• Proactively monitor and manage loss ratios for both corporate and retail accounts, driving corrective action through branch collaboration.
• Champion non-motor business growth and maintain optimal reinsurance arrangements, including oversight of claim recoveries.

Management Expense & Cost Efficiency

• Effectively manage underwriting costs to ensure alignment with budgetary targets.
• Negotiate competitive and favorable terms with key service providers including valuers, surveyors, and device fitters.
• Proactively recommend and support process automation initiatives to reduce per capita operational costs.

Control of Company Assets and Cash.

• Ensure strict control and proper utilization of motor certificates, yellow cards and all security documents in line with regulatory and internal guidelines.
• Monitor daily issuance and usage of motor certificates and yellow cards to maintain compliance and prevent misuse.

Internal Controls and Reporting.

• Review business retention and profitability reports and take corrective action.
• Prepare accurate, timely, and insightful reports to aid strategic decision-making by management.
• Maintain and review Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring compliance with internal audit controls and closure of all audit recommendations.

Talent Management.

• Provide effective administrative oversight and leadership to direct reportees, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and alignment with company strategy.
• Drive performance management, staff development, and motivation to build a technically competent and high-performing underwriting team.
• Lead and inspire the team to deliver underwriting objectives while embedding a culture of continuous performance improvement and customer-focused service.

REQUIREMENTS

• A Bachelor’s degree in business related course (Insurance Option, Marketing, Business Administration, and Finance) or equivalent from a recognized university.
• Diploma in CII or AIIK or equivalent.
• 7 years relevant experience with at least 2 years as an Assistant Manager – Underwriting or equivalent.