Underwriter I, Angel in Chelmsford

AXA XL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Chelmsford, UK Angel Risk Management specialises in underwriting products for the small to medium‑size sector on behalf of AXA XL – the global insurer that combines financial security with a nimble and empowered approach. The majority of Angel online business is underwritten either via the Angel Underwriting bespoke system from the Angel Chelmsford office or the Angel online quick quote system. AXA XL provides property, casualty, professional and speciality products to industrial, commercial and professional businesses, insurers and enterprises through the world.

As an Underwriter, you will be responsible for delivering a profitable ‘Underwriting’ service to your clients. Your key tasks include:

• Underwriting business within the agreed business plan and individual authority;
• Supporting the business planning and forecasting process;
• Monitoring financial exposure within outlined limits;
• Maintaining awareness of all claims advised while supporting and providing input on settlement of claims;
• Building and maintaining relationships with brokers and clients;
• Supporting the design and structure of risks;
• Embedding innovative company culture & actively working with IT and other Angel teams to ensure continuous development of efficient systems.

Your essential responsibilities include:

• To underwrite and be involved in the management of Angels’ Professional Liability (Financial Lines) renewal book of business;
• Reviewing submissions including applications, policy wording, loss runs, and financial reports while conducting appropriate research to determine degree of risk for each account;
• Calculating appropriate risk premium;
• Proactively assisting, servicing and following up with clients on insurance;
• Effective relationship management to initiate opportunities for cross‑selling offered products and ensuring account retention;
• Controlling timely implementation of new and renewed accounts according to quality standards;
• Managing policy endorsements requests and mid‑term adjustments;
• Maintaining awareness of all claims advised while supporting and providing input on settlement of claims;
• Working collaboratively in a team environment, assisting underwriters, underwriting assistants and management team;
• Developing, underwriting, quoting and binding FL new and renewal business;
• Dealing with referrals and complex risks;
• Assisting the junior members of the team by acting as a referral point for business outside of their authority;
• Dealing efficiently with brokers queries as they arise;
• Assisting in preparing weekly and monthly reports;
• Reinforcing partnerships and relationships with brokers.

You will report to the Managing Director.

We’re looking for someone who has these abilities and skills:

• Proven experience of underwriting Financial Lines / Professional Liability / Directors and Officers Insurance and a good working knowledge of general insurance and insurance underwriting;
• Industry/product knowledge and commercial/business acumen;
• Good standard of numeracy and literacy/analytical, negotiation and sales/marketing skills;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Excellent customer service focus is a must;
• Interpersonal savvy - demonstrated ability to build and maintain excellent insured and broker contacts;
• Ability to develop and understand business processes, strategy and planning;
• Affinity with underwriting systems and online broker processing would be advantageous;
• Collaborative team player who provides creative solutions and ideas for resolution;
• Knowledge of and ability to competently work with Microsoft office applications;
• React to change proactively;
• Be able to work effectively in a team environment and exhibit the flexibility necessary in an evolving organization.

Factors important for successful performance:

• Technical skills particularly with Financial Lines including Professional Liability and Directors and Officers;
• Analytical decision making;
• Self‑motivation;
• Collaborative team player.

AXA XL is committed to equal employment opportunity and will consider applicants regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, ethnicity and origins, marital status, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic. At AXA XL, we know that an inclusive culture enables business growth and is critical to our success. That’s why we have made a strategic commitment to attract, develop, advance and retain the most inclusive workforce possible, and create a culture where everyone can bring their full selves to work and reach their highest potential.

AXA XL’s Reward program is designed to take care of what matters most to you, covering the full picture of your health, wellbeing, lifestyle and financial security. It provides competitive compensation and personalized, inclusive benefits that evolve as you do. We’re committed to rewarding your contribution for the long term, so you can be your best self today and look forward to the future with confidence.

At AXA XL, Sustainability is integral to our business strategy. In an ever‑changing world, AXA XL protects what matters most for our clients and communities. We know that sustainability is at the root of a more resilient future.