Direct & Facultative Senior Underwriter Property/Downstream

PartnerRe is a privately owned, multi‑line global reinsurer known for financial stability and a focus on rebuilding businesses and communities after major risk events. The firm operates worldwide, guided by values such as Integrity, Performance, Collaboration, Straightforward Communication, and Respect and Care. The opening is for a Senior Direct & Facultative Underwriter within the Property & Downstream team, based in either Zurich or London, reporting into a seasoned underwriting group that values expertise and proactive engagement. In this position you will lead the acquisition and expansion of a profitable direct and facultative portfolio across designated lines and markets. Daily tasks involve analysing submissions, performing technical risk assessments, pricing reviews, and catastrophe exposure checks, as well as scrutinising slips, wordings, clauses and reinsurance contracts. You will interact regularly with a global network of brokers and insured clients, negotiate terms, and collaborate with internal partners, including accounting, claims, wording specialists, catastrophe modelling, legal, compliance and treaty underwriting teams. Administrative duties cover contract review, premium monitoring and data quality assurance, while periodic portfolio reviews support strategic decision‑making. The ideal candidate brings at least seven years of direct and facultative underwriting experience in the relevant lines and markets, coupled with deep knowledge of corporate downstream or property insurance and facultative reinsurance. A solid understanding of insurance coverage structures, policy specifics and actuarial pricing methods is essential, as is the ability to discuss technical pricing matters confidently. Excellent written and spoken English communication skills are required, along with a proven track record of effective negotiation, solution development and relationship building with brokers and clients. Strong interpersonal abilities and a collaborative mindset are needed to work seamlessly across internal teams and senior management. The role offers a hybrid working model and places you within a diverse, inclusive environment that values respect and empowerment. Being part of PartnerRe's international network provides opportunities to shape your career, grow in a supportive setting, and connect with a community of experts. While fluency in additional languages is not mandatory, it is considered a valuable asset that can enhance client and broker interactions across regions. What the role asks for: - Minimum 7 years direct & facultative underwriting experience - Expertise in corporate downstream or property insurance - Knowledge of insurance coverage structures and policy details - Understanding of actuarial pricing methodologies - Fluent written and spoken English - Demonstrated negotiation and solution development ability - Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills - Additional language proficiency (nice‑to‑have)