Behind every successful marine underwriting decision is a technical and operational foundation that ensures accuracy, consistency and trust. At Alta Signa, that expertise sits at the heart of our Marine Division, our Marine Technical Accounting and Operations Manager and Simona Ballestrero is a key part of that engine.
With more than three decades of experience in marine insurance, Simona brings deep technical knowledge and a meticulous approach to supporting underwriters, brokers and clients alike. In this Spotlight, she shares what it takes to keep complex marine portfolios running smoothly, and why technical accounting is such a critical part of Alta Signa’s close-to-source model.
Can you tell us a bit about your role at Alta Signa and what attracted you to join the business?
“What attracted me to Alta Signa was the technical nature of the marine business and the opportunity to work within a highly specialised team. The Italian marine team is made up of very experienced professionals, and there is a strong sense of collaboration - it really feels like working within a family.
I was also motivated by the opportunity to work again with Francesco Dubbioso, having previously worked together at Generali. Coming from a large insurer, the chance to help build a new marine structure at Alta Signa from the ground up was very appealing. Being able to design processes, implement systems I know well, and shape the function from the start was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.”
What does your day-to-day role involve?
“I support the underwriting team from both a technical and operational perspective, working closely with colleagues to ensure that premiums, commissions and data are accurately recorded and kept up to date. This allows underwriters to focus on underwriting and client relationships, knowing the technical accounting side is running smoothly.
I am responsible for ensuring all figures are accurate and fully reconciled. Each month, we receive statements of account from around 20–30 brokers, and every figure must match exactly what is recorded in our systems.
Marine insurance is particularly detailed and complex. A single cover note may include dozens of vessels, each with different flags, insured values, premiums and rates. Every detail needs to be checked, matched and correctly recorded. I also monitor bank account movements daily to ensure full reconciliation.”
You previously worked at a large insurer. How does working at an MGA compare?
“The difference is significant. In a large insurer, roles are often very narrow - you do one task repeatedly and don’t always see the full picture. At an MGA like Alta Signa, you have much broader visibility across the entire process, from underwriting through to policy administration, broker interaction and premium collection.
This wider perspective makes the role more dynamic and engaging. There is also much more flexibility and collaboration , it’s easier to speak directly with colleagues across different functions and work together to improve processes.
“The Marine Division is growing strongly, supported by very experienced and capable underwriters. I see a lot of expertise, ambition and professionalism across the team. In Italian, we would say they are ‘bravi’ - highly skilled and excellent at what they do. I’m confident the Marine Division will continue to strengthen and perform very well.”
How do you find working with brokers in such a competitive marine market?
“The marine market is extremely competitive. Brokers are naturally focused on price and capacity, and they may place parts of a programme where they find the best terms at that moment. That said, strong technical expertise, local knowledge and reliable operations are highly valued, and these are areas where Alta Signa really stands out.”
You clearly have a lot of passion for marine insurance. Where does that come from?
“I started working in marine insurance in 1991, when I was around 20 years old, and I’ve never left the sector. Marine insurance is complex, technical and constantly evolving , and that’s exactly what I enjoy. It’s not just my job; it’s something I genuinely love.
I really enjoy problem-solving, particularly when it comes to complex premium calculations and data reconciliation. Every case is different, and accuracy is critical. I enjoy the challenge and the responsibility that comes with ensuring everything is correct and aligned.
Alta Signa is growing quickly, which means there will be more work, more complexity and more opportunities to further strengthen our processes. That growth brings challenges, but it also makes the role very interesting and rewarding.”
What advice would you give to someone starting a career in insurance or technical accounting?
“Take your time and always be precise. Look carefully at every detail and don’t be afraid to ask questions if something isn’t clear. It’s important to learn not only your own role, but also how underwriting and other other functions work , that broader understanding is invaluable. If you’re in doubt, stop and check. Accuracy is everything.”
Thanks for taking the time to chat, Simona!
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