New Business Underwriter Manager (Medical)

Job Purpose:

We are currently assisting one of our clients, a leading insurance company. As the New Business Underwriting (Medical) Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the processing and management of pending medical applications, ensuring that the underwriting process is efficient and compliant with company standards. This role will also drive continuous improvement initiatives, implement operational projects, and maintain strong relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure optimal service delivery and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Application Review and Processing: Lead the coordination with the New Business (NB) Team to review and process pending medical applications, ensuring timely and accurate completion.
• Underwriting Education: Provide guidance and training to agents and clients on completed applications, ensuring clear communication about the underwriting process and necessary next steps.
• Performance Monitoring: Conduct quarterly reviews of underwriting performance, set targets, and analyze results against previous periods to track improvements and identify areas for development.
• Project Implementation: Collaborate with the Head of New Business & Underwriting to implement and execute projects that improve operational efficiency, processes, and customer-centric procedures.
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Develop, recommend, and implement underwriting policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure consistent quality and compliance across the team.
• Stakeholder Relations: Maintain relationships with insurance bodies, regulatory authorities, reinsurers, and industry forums to stay updated on best practices and ensure competitive advantage through optimal turnaround times (TAT).
• Internal Communication: Facilitate communication between underwriting teams, distributors, and other internal stakeholders to ensure a customer-oriented approach to underwriting processes.
• Pending Application Management: Oversee the completion and processing of pending applications, resolving any issues and ensuring accurate data processing in the system.
• Reinstatement Underwriting: Underwrite reinstatement applications in accordance with company guidelines and medical underwriting standards.
• Data Management: Ensure that pending data is processed according to system mechanisms, minimizing backlogs and maintaining data integrity.
• Process Improvement: Lead initiatives to simplify and streamline underwriting processes, including the implementation of tools like the UW Engine and AFI DNA system.
• Audit & Compliance Management: Address audit or compliance issues related to Distribution Administration and Data Communication, ensuring adherence to corporate governance standards and regulations.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Medicine (MD) or must be a licensed doctor. 
• Proven experience in underwriting, preferably in medical or life insurance.
• Strong knowledge of insurance regulations and industry best practices.
• Project management experience with a focus on process improvement and operational efficiency.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills to manage teams and collaborate effectively with stakeholders.