Construction Senior Underwriter in Manchester

Who are we? Howden is a global insurance group with employee ownership at its heart. Together, we have pushed the boundaries of insurance. We are united by a shared passion and no‑limits mindset, and our strength lies in our ability to collaborate as a powerful international team comprised of 23,000 employees spanning over 56 countries. People join Howden for many different reasons, but they stay for the same one: our culture. It’s what sets us apart, and the reason our employees have been turning down headhunters for years. Whatever your priorities – work / life balance, career progression, sustainability, volunteering – you’ll find like‑minded people driving change at Howden.

Role Definition

To develop strong business relationships for annual renewable contractors combined with brokers and service providers. To deliver strategic planning, development and execution of business development, ensuring DUAL Construction reach its targets in line with its published business plan within agreed strategies and underwriting binder limits, guidelines, maximising profitable opportunities. To act as a referral point and role model to other members of the underwriting team.

Key Responsibilities / Accountabilities

• Generate and underwrite annual renewable contractors combined business in accordance with the business plan and profile of target insurance business set by Dual Corporate Risks Limited, and in accordance with the binding authority granted to the company.
• Develop an effective annual business activity planning process with our brokers and have a good knowledge of DUAL’s Underwriting’s overall business plans, processes and key contacts.
• Work with stakeholders to ensure efficient delivery of business plans.
• Work with new and existing broker panel to forge relationships and trust and extend the panel to include new brokers.
• Act as a referral point for underwriters and assistant underwriters within the construction team.
• Undertake peer reviews of other members of the Construction team.
• Display positive traits as a role model to other members of the DUAL team.
• Work with the underwriting manager and Development Director on a regular basis to help develop the construction team members skills and knowledge.
• Produce and maintain underwriting files for both internal and external viewing and to prepare for audit.
• Perform underwriting checks/ research prior to quoting.
• Work with Underwriting’s computer system and platforms to produce certificates, policy wordings, and bordereaux.
• Work with various binders under the Underwriters responsibilities.
• Assist other product areas where required.
• Actively sell and promote DUAL Construction products and services to brokers.
• Identify ways in which DUAL Construction and each broker can work smarter together for mutual benefit.
• Understand how each broker evaluates insurers against the demands and needs of customers, and/or the attractiveness of insurers generally.
• Develop an effective Portfolio New Business and Renewal planning process with broker.
• Conduct broker research into business development opportunities thereby creating opportunities for DUAL Construction in the process.
• Maintain accurate and timely Management Information, monitoring the development of the broker’s account including credit performance and to communicate/feedback.

Skills and abilities needed to perform role

• Highly engaging communicator with excellent inter‑personal skills.
• Approachable and consistent.
• Strong ability to influence and negotiate with brokers, underwriters and service providers.
• Analytical and creative thinker in meeting Underwriting needs whilst working in partnership with brokers.
• Ability to understand the needs of each Underwriting line on a portfolio basis.
• Self‑motivated.
• Ability to motivate and gain buy‑in from others effectively.
• Committed to learning and development i.e. continual professional development.
• Politically astute regarding the insurance market.
• Work with confidence, embrace change, be inquisitive, resilient, imaginative and direct.
• Ability to work quickly, efficiently and methodically.
• Ability to communicate theories and ideas.

Knowledge and Experience

• Experience in the insurance industry with a broad range of experience in policy work and preparation, basic accounts and claims.
• Sound product awareness with significant experience of underwriting annual renewable contractors combined to which the job holder is responsible for.

Compliance & Regulatory Responsibilities

Remain compliant with FCA requirements at all times. Share ideas, best practice and other information within DUAL Oliva, especially where relevant to the relationship with brokers.

What do we offer in return?

A career that you define. At Howden, we value diversity – there is no one Howden type. Instead, we’re looking for individuals who share the same values as us: Our successes have all come from someone brave enough to try something new. We support each other in the small everyday moments and the bigger challenges. We are determined to make a positive difference at work and beyond.

Reasonable adjustments

We’re committed to providing reasonable accommodations at Howden to ensure that our positions align well with your needs. Besides the usual adjustments such as software, IT, and office setups, we can also accommodate other changes such as flexible hours or hybrid working.