At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead underwriting oversight and governance for a global insurer.
- Company: Join a respected global specialty (re)insurer with a strong market presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus, and the chance to influence governance strategy.
- Why this job: Shape the future of underwriting governance in a collaborative, impactful environment.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in the London Market with expertise in governance and risk controls.
- Other info: Opportunity for direct management and visibility at senior leadership levels.
The predicted salary is between 104000 - 116000 £ per year.
London | £130,000 – £140,000 + 30% Bonus | Global Specialty (Re)Insurer | Permanent
We’re hiring for a newly created leadership role at a globally respected (re)insurer that sits at the heart of underwriting performance, control, and governance. This is a rare opportunity to own and shape the underwriting oversight function within a high-performing, listed insurer — reporting directly to the Group Underwriting Portfolio Director.
If you’re a seasoned insurance professional with deep expertise in governance, risk controls, delegated authority oversight, and portfolio monitoring — this role is built for you.
The Role:This is not a market-facing underwriting role — it’s about ensuring governance excellence and supporting performance oversight across our global portfolio. You’ll work cross-functionally with underwriting, outwards RI, internal audit, and executive teams to deliver world-class oversight.
- Lead the monthly underwriting oversight process including authority monitoring, exception reporting, and committee submissions
- Oversee delegated authority frameworks, coverholder audits, and service partner compliance
- Maintain and evolve internal governance frameworks, SOPs, and audit response plans
- Own the underwriting risk and control framework across trading partners and internal teams
- Provide input into portfolio planning, binder alignment, and onboarding processes
- Support junior team members and eventually step into direct line management
- 10+ years of experience in the London Market, ideally in a Lloyd’s syndicate or specialty insurer
- Proven track record in underwriting governance, portfolio monitoring, or delegated authority control
- Hands-on experience with binder management, risk control frameworks, and internal audit
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to influence across underwriting, compliance, and senior leadership
- Comfortable working across both direct and reinsurance classes of business
- ACII or equivalent qualification preferred
- Listed global platform with scale and ambition, yet lean enough for you to have real impact
- Work directly with senior leadership and shape the underwriting governance strategy
- Collaborative, cross-functional culture with visibility at board and executive level
- The stability and rigour of a global brand, with the energy and responsiveness of a modern insurer
Underwriting Portfolio Governance Manager (London Area) employer: DATAHEAD
Contact Detail:
DATAHEAD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Underwriting Portfolio Governance Manager (London Area)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the London Market, especially those who have experience in governance and underwriting. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the latest trends in underwriting oversight.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific governance frameworks and risk control measures used by leading (re)insurers. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the role's requirements.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in managing delegated authority and portfolio monitoring. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully implemented governance strategies in past roles, as this will showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter and our values, particularly our focus on collaboration and cross-functional work. Tailor your conversations during interviews to reflect how your leadership style aligns with our culture and how you can contribute to our goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Underwriting Portfolio Governance Manager (London Area)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your 10+ years of experience in the London Market, focusing on your expertise in underwriting governance and portfolio monitoring. Use specific examples that demonstrate your hands-on experience with binder management and risk control frameworks.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your background aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly your ability to lead oversight processes and maintain governance frameworks.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your strong written and verbal communication skills in both your CV and cover letter. Mention instances where you successfully influenced stakeholders across underwriting, compliance, and senior leadership, as this is crucial for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that your documents are formatted professionally. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is vital for this position.
How to prepare for a job interview at DATAHEAD
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Make sure you have a deep understanding of the Underwriting Portfolio Governance Manager role. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, such as governance excellence and oversight processes, so you can discuss how your experience aligns with these requirements.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Prepare to highlight your 10+ years of experience in the London Market, particularly in underwriting governance and risk controls. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully managed delegated authority frameworks and portfolio monitoring in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since this role involves working with various teams, be prepared to discuss your experience in cross-functional collaboration. Share examples of how you've effectively communicated and influenced stakeholders across underwriting, compliance, and senior leadership.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the company's governance strategy and culture. Inquire about their current challenges in underwriting oversight or how they envision the evolution of their internal governance frameworks.