Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
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Kershia Diana Pillay

Kershia Diana Pillay

Underwriting Manager
Johannesburg

Summary

With over 15 years of experience, I have successfully managed key Trade Finance products across South Africa and Africa operations within both banking and non-banking environments. My expertise encompasses a deep understanding of trade finance mechanisms, risk management, and regulatory compliance, enabling me to drive efficient and effective financial solutions. I am adept at fostering strong client relationships, optimizing processes, and delivering strategic insights to support business growth and international trade.

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience

Work History

Underwriting Manager

Guardrisk Insurance Co. Ltd
01.2024 - Current
  • Implemented technology solutions to automate various underwriting tasks, increasing efficiency and reducing manual errors.
  • Improved underwriting performance by streamlining processes and implementing best practices.
  • Reviewed policy applications thoroughly, ensuring accurate evaluation of risks in alignment with established guidelines.
  • Proactively identified areas for process improvement within the department, implementing changes that led to increased efficiency across teams.

AVP Product Manager PAN Africa Trade

Absa Bank
01.2022 - 12.2024
  • Analyzed data to identify areas of improvement, implementing changes that resulted in greater operational efficiency.
  • Successfully managed change within the organization, ensuring smooth transitions during periods of restructuring or process improvements.
  • Established policies and procedures that improved operational efficiency within the organization.
  • Maintained compliance with industry regulations by implementing risk mitigation measures and maintaining accurate documentation.

Trade Service Proffessional

Citi Bank N,A
01.2020 - 12.2022
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Client Service Manager

Standard Chartered Bank S.A
12.2017 - 01.2019
  • Developed customized service plans tailored to individual client needs, resulting in increased retention rates.
  • Coached team members on best practices for exceptional customer service, boosting overall performance levels.
  • Successfully resolved escalated client issues, restoring trust and safeguarding the company''s reputation.
  • Nurtured long-term relationships with clients, fostering loyalty and business growth opportunities.

Guarantees Specialist

Rand Merchant Bank
01.2011 - 12.2015
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals on time and within budget.
  • Improved customer satisfaction rates through proactive problem-solving and efficient complaint resolution.
  • Followed all company policies and procedures to deliver quality work.
  • Championed the adoption of new software tools that streamlined workflows across multiple departments.

Trade Officer

The Standard Bank Of South Africa
12.2009 - 01.2011
  • Managed a diverse portfolio of clients, providing personalized solutions to meet unique needs and requirements.
  • Organized trade events and conferences to showcase products/services and expand network connections.
  • Utilized advanced software tools to optimize workflows, automating repetitive tasks to save time and resources.
  • Streamlined trade processes, minimizing errors and improving efficiency in transactions.

Education

Bachelor of Commerce - Law

Regent Business School
Johannesburg
04.2001 -

Certificate - Leadership And Personal Development

Duke Corporate Education
Joahneesburg
04.2001 -

Certificate - Banking And Compliance

Bankseta
Johannesburg
04.2001 -

Skills

Underwriting guidelines

Sales support

Portfolio management

Credit analysis

Trade Portfolio Management

Accomplishments

Various Service awards at the various banks that I have worked for.

Employee of the year 2019 - Standard Chartered Bank.

Timeline

Underwriting Manager

Guardrisk Insurance Co. Ltd
01.2024 - Current

AVP Product Manager PAN Africa Trade

Absa Bank
01.2022 - 12.2024

Trade Service Proffessional

Citi Bank N,A
01.2020 - 12.2022

Client Service Manager

Standard Chartered Bank S.A
12.2017 - 01.2019

Guarantees Specialist

Rand Merchant Bank
01.2011 - 12.2015

Trade Officer

The Standard Bank Of South Africa
12.2009 - 01.2011

Bachelor of Commerce - Law

Regent Business School
04.2001 -

Certificate - Leadership And Personal Development

Duke Corporate Education
04.2001 -

Certificate - Banking And Compliance

Bankseta
04.2001 -

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Kershia Diana PillayUnderwriting Manager