At a Glance
- Tasks: Underwrite Commercial Combined risks and manage broker relationships across the South Region.
- Company: Cova Insurance, an award-winning workplace focused on people and culture.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, competitive salary, generous holiday, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with a focus on work-life balance and employee wellbeing.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and make a real impact in the insurance industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in underwriting and strong negotiation skills preferred.
The predicted salary is between 42750 - 52250 £ per year.
Join Cova Insurance, an award-winning place to work. At Cova Insurance, we are here to protect what matters most, from homes and vehicles to businesses and livelihoods. What truly sets us apart is our people and culture. We have been recognised as the Best Place to Work at the Modern Claims Awards 2026, reflecting our commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive and empowering environment where everyone can thrive.
The Team: Our Commercial Underwriting team works closely with brokers and colleagues across the business to deliver profitable growth, excellent service and strong underwriting outcomes. We combine technical expertise with a collaborative approach to support brokers, customers and the wider business.
What you can expect in this role:
- Underwrite Commercial Combined risks, primarily renewals and mid-term adjustments, alongside selected new business opportunities.
- Develop and manage broker relationships across the South Region.
- Negotiate and trade effectively to support profitable growth.
- Take ownership of larger and more complex underwriting cases.
- Act as a technical referral point and support the development of colleagues.
What you might bring:
- Experience underwriting and trading Commercial Combined business.
- Strong broker relationship and negotiation skills.
- Knowledge of the regional broker market and commercial insurance sector.
- Sound underwriting judgement and technical expertise.
- A proactive and commercially focused mindset.
- Dip CII, or progress towards, would be advantageous.
Not sure you tick every box? That's okay. We recognise that great candidates bring different experiences and perspectives. If this role interests you and you believe you could add value, we encourage you to apply - even if you don't meet every requirement.
Our Values: Our values are at the heart of everything we do and are one of the reasons we are recognised as an award-winning place to work:
- Standing Shoulder to Shoulder: We care, listen and support.
- Make it Happen: We act with integrity.
- Understand you: Collaboration drives success.
- Change the Game: We invest in growth.
We're committed to building a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
Flexibility That Works for You:
- Hybrid working.
- Flexible hours and working patterns.
- A genuine approach to work-life balance.
Why join Cova?
- Because we believe great work happens when people are trusted, supported and able to work in ways that suit their lives.
- Flexibility that truly works for you: 36.25 hours per week, flexitime, and hybrid options as standard.
- Reward that reflects your contribution: annual pay review plus performance-related bonus.
- Time to switch off and recharge: 25-27 days holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to buy or sell annual leave.
- Investing in your future: a generous pension with 7.5% employer contribution as standard, which can be matched up to 12% with your input.
- Grow with us: access to training, professional qualifications and apprenticeships to support your development at every stage of your career.
- A culture where you belong: employee-led communities, inclusive networks and meaningful DEI action.
- Your wellbeing matters: private medical cover, 24/7 Virtual GP, health checks and ongoing wellbeing initiatives.
- Support beyond work: mental and financial wellbeing support through our dedicated Wellbeing group.
- Everyday perks that add up: electric car scheme, gym discounts, Cycle to Work and retail savings via Perkpal.
Ready to apply? If this sounds like the right next step for you, we'd love to hear from you. As a Disability Confident Employer, we're committed to fair and accessible recruitment. If you need adjustments or support at any stage, please contact our Recruitment Team.
Applicants must currently reside in the UK and have the unrestricted right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we're unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.
Maintaining high standards of conduct and behaviour is a core requirement of this role. The role holder is expected to promote a respectful, inclusive and professional working environment and take reasonable steps to prevent, identify and respond appropriately to non-financial misconduct, including bullying, harassment, discrimination, victimisation and other inappropriate behaviour.
Senior Underwriter - Bristol; Manchester; Chelmsford employer: Covea Insurance
Cova Insurance is an award-winning employer that prioritises a supportive and inclusive work culture, making it an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful employment. With flexible working options, a commitment to employee growth through training and professional qualifications, and a focus on wellbeing, Cova ensures that its employees can thrive both personally and professionally. The Halifax location offers a unique opportunity to be part of a transformative journey in the insurance sector, where your contributions will have a visible impact across the organisation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Underwriter - Bristol; Manchester; Chelmsford
✨Dive Into Industry Networking Events
Get your foot in the door by attending insurance industry events and conferences. Not only will you learn about the latest trends, but you'll also meet potential employers and industry peers. Check out local chapters of professional bodies like the Chartered Insurance Institute for valuable meetups.
✨Use LinkedIn to Your Advantage
Don’t underestimate the power of LinkedIn in the insurance world. Engage with industry content, join relevant groups, and connect with professionals at companies you admire (like Covea Insurance). A thoughtful message explaining your interest can really make a difference!
✨Look Out for Graduate Schemes
Many firms in insurance have structured graduate programmes. Keep an eye on application windows and utilise your university's career services for insider tips. These schemes are designed to develop talent and often lead to permanent roles after your initial training.
✨Leverage Your Current Connections
Got friends or family in the industry? Now’s the time to reach out! Personal referrals can give you a head start, so let them know you're on the lookout for full-time opportunities at places like Covea Insurance. Don’t shy away from asking for a coffee chat; you never know what doors it might open!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Underwriter - Bristol; Manchester; Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Analytical Skills:In insurance, we love a candidate who can crunch numbers and analyse data effectively. When crafting your CV, make sure to showcase any relevant coursework or experiences that highlight your analytical abilities, especially if you’ve tackled risk assessment or financial modelling.
Showcase Industry Knowledge:Don’t be shy about your knowledge of the insurance sector! We want to see that you've done your homework on current trends, regulations, and challenges in the industry. Mention any relevant projects or studies you’ve completed that demonstrate your understanding of the field in your cover letter.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you’re passionate about insurance. Share any personal experiences or what drew you into this profession. We’re looking for enthusiasm and a clear motivation for why you want to be part of our team at Covea Insurance.
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don't just send a generic CV! Focus on tailoring it specifically for the insurance role at Covea Insurance. Highlight relevant skills such as risk management, customer service experience, or any certifications you've earned in the industry to make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Covea Insurance
✨Know Your Numbers: Insurance Fundamentals
Brush up on your understanding of key insurance concepts, like underwriting principles and risk assessment. Expect the interviewer at Covea Insurance to throw some technical questions your way, so be ready to demonstrate your grasp of these essentials.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Side
In the insurance world, it's all about data. Prepare to discuss any analytical tools or methodologies you've used in past experiences. If you have a portfolio of projects where you've tackled complex data, bring that along to impress the team!
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
As a full-timer at Covea Insurance, they'll want to know how you handle real-life scenarios, not just theory. Think about challenges you've faced in teamwork or customer service, and how those experiences can relate to a career in insurance.
✨Know the Company Culture Inside Out
Understanding Covea Insurance's values and workplace culture is essential. Don’t just memorise their mission statement; think about how your personal values align with theirs. This will show your genuine interest in being part of their team long-term.
