Lizelle Truter

1. Tell us about your position as Underwriting Manager at MUA

I joined MUA in November of last year as the Underwriting Manager. I have a great team of underwriters and we have grown together over the last couple of months, made some changes in our department, moved the office around and have now started to settle in nicely into our new roles.

 

2. What are your roles and responsibilities as the Underwriting Manager MUA?

I have various responsibilities, but my main role is to lead and support my team in their duties. I assist with the quote desk, support the Western and Eastern Cape Regional Manager in her duties and ensure that we maintain good underwriting standards as far as possible.

 

3. How did you get to this point?

You don’t have to be mad to work in this industry, but it sure helps… Seriously though – I have had some brilliant mentors in my life and they have helped me to develop my natural talents and have taught me to develop the skills I previously didn’t have. I also love to learn new things and that has stood me in good stead.

 

4. How did your previous industry experience assist you in this role?

I have managed to spend some time in most areas of our business, but most of my career has been spent in various claims positions and I feel that claims always gives you a good background for underwriting: It makes you more aware of the risks that are out there and you know what “danger” signs to look out for. You also learn very quickly to trust your “gut instinct”.

 

5. What do you think are some of the biggest challenges in your position?

Maintaining service excellence: not dropping the ball when it comes to providing service to our brokers and clients. Keeping the team morale high and making sure we get the rating correct and underwrite correctly.

 

6. Would you recommend a career in insurance to young people?

Absolutely yes, it is a career with so many diverse paths that you can follow – claims, training, underwriting, accounting, assessing and sales. It is brilliant!

 

7. Do you have a personal motto?

Seize the Day