At a Glance
- Tasks: Underwrite complex construction risks and build strong broker relationships.
- Company: Markel, a Fortune 500 company with a people-first culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous bonus, flexible working, and excellent benefits.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for career development.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the construction insurance sector.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in construction underwriting and strong communication skills.
Play your part in underwriting complex risks that keep the UK building! At Markel, we do more than underwrite insurance – we give people the confidence to move forward. From specialist construction projects to complex contractual risks, our underwriters are trusted partners to brokers and clients alike. We’re now looking to hire an experienced Senior Construction Underwriter to support the continued growth of our UK Construction portfolio. This role can be based in Manchester, Leeds or Birmingham, making it ideal for experienced underwriters in the Northern & Midlands markets seeking a visible, high impact role with real autonomy.
The opportunity
Reporting to the UK Head of Construction Sector Sales, you’ll play a key role in underwriting new business, shaping broker relationships, and helping drive profitable growth across a specialist construction portfolio. You’ll combine technical underwriting expertise with strong broker engagement, operating in a market where quality decision making, service, and relationships truly matter.
What you’ll be doing
- Underwriting construction new business risks, demonstrating strong technical judgement within delegated authority
- Reviewing and negotiating broker generated quotes, clearly articulating Markel’s product strengths to win business
- Building and developing strong broker relationships across your regional panel, supported by Sector Sales and Business Development
- Managing the full lifecycle of risks from enquiry to outcome using Markel’s underwriting platforms
- Proactively identifying and pursuing new business opportunities through CRM and pipeline management
- Acting as a technical point of reference, sharing knowledge and coaching colleagues within the wider team
What you’ll bring
- Proven experience in Construction underwriting, including policies, portfolios and/or binders
- Experience working with a specialist broker panel (preferred)
- Strong communication skills, confident engaging brokers by phone, email and in meetings
- The ability to manage your own workflow effectively while working collaboratively within a team
- A commercial mindset with an appetite to contribute to regional and national growth ambitions
Why Markel?
Markel Group (NYSE: MKL) is a Fortune 500 company with over 60 offices globally. Despite our scale, we remain proudly people‑first, giving underwriters genuine influence and the freedom to underwrite intelligently. Our values guide how we work every day:
- We’re all about people
- We win together
- We strive for better
- We enjoy the everyday
- We think further
What’s in it for you?
- Competitive basic salary plus generous bonus
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, with buy/sell options
- Excellent pension, private medical & dental cover, life assurance and income protection
- Hybrid and flexible working options
- A culture that values expertise, collaboration and long‑term career development
Ready to play your part? If you’re an experienced construction underwriter looking to step into a role with visibility, autonomy and momentum in the Manchester, Leeds or Birmingham market, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and discover how you can build something special with Markel.
Equal Opportunity & Accommodation Information
Markel celebrates the value of a diverse workforce that brings experience and expertise from a wide variety of backgrounds and life circumstances. Whatever your background, if you feel you meet the requirements of this role then we want to hear from you. We are also happy to consider candidates who are looking for flexible working patterns. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with all reasonable accommodations to be able to participate in the job application or interview process and to perform essential job functions if successful. Please contact us via email at rec@markel.com or call us at 0161 507 5827 to request any accommodations that may be needed. This includes any alternative formats of any documents or information on how to apply offline.
Senior Underwriter - Construction Liability in Manchester employer: Dormont Manufacturing Co
At Markel, we pride ourselves on being a people-first organisation that empowers our underwriters with the autonomy to make impactful decisions. With a strong focus on collaboration and career development, we offer competitive salaries, generous benefits, and a culture that values expertise and innovation. Join us in Manchester, Leeds, or Birmingham, where you can thrive in a dynamic environment while contributing to the growth of our specialist construction portfolio.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Underwriter - Construction Liability in Manchester
✨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 Dormont Manufacturing Co). 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 Dormont Manufacturing Co. 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 - Construction Liability in Manchester
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 Dormont Manufacturing Co.
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don't just send a generic CV! Focus on tailoring it specifically for the insurance role at Dormont Manufacturing Co. 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 Dormont Manufacturing Co
✨Know Your Numbers: Insurance Fundamentals
Brush up on your understanding of key insurance concepts, like underwriting principles and risk assessment. Expect the interviewer at Dormont Manufacturing Co 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 Dormont Manufacturing Co, 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 Dormont Manufacturing Co'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.
