Trainee Underwriter (Individual Life)

About the role

The 12-month Trainee Underwriter programme at Old Mutual prepares participants for the position of Individual Life Underwriter. It is designed for people new to the industry or to risk underwriting, giving them the skills needed to start an underwriting career. The contract is fixed term, with a stipend paid during training; once fully trained and all requirements met, the trainee can apply for a permanent position in the underwriting team.

Key responsibilities

• Make underwriting decisions under the supervision of a mentor
• Handle intermediary enquiries and advise on requirements and impairments
• Capture underwriting information accurately in the product administration system
• Provide written communication to clients and distribution channels
• Analyse health conditions, environmental and pastime exposures and determine appropriate insurance coverage
• Gather and review information on financial conditions, risk exposures and economic trends
• Maintain relationships with customers, agents and brokers by telephone and in writing
• Follow standardised processes, deliver daily production standards and adhere to service and quality standards
• Work flexible hours (start 08h00 to 8h30, finish 16h30 to 19h00) and be willing to work overtime

Required profile

• Matric with Biology/Life Sciences and Mathematics or Biology/Life Sciences and Accounting
• Tertiary degree or diploma (minimum NQF7); a medically aligned degree, BSc or BCom is advantageous
• Bilingual English and another official language
• Life insurance product and process knowledge beneficial
• Willingness to work flexible hours and overtime

Required skills

• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Strong telephony and written communication skills
• Self-management, teamwork, accuracy and customer care

The application closes on 18 November 2026. Appointment follows the Employment Equity Plan of Old Mutual South Africa.