Head of Insurance Risk in City of Westminster

Head of Insurance Risk in City of Westminster

City of Westminster Full-Time 80000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
DS Smith Europe

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead global insurance programmes and collaborate on risk management initiatives.
  • Company: Join DS Smith, a forward-thinking company redefining packaging.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, private healthcare, and generous holiday.
  • Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for travel across EMEA.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic role with global reach.
  • Qualifications: ACII or FCII qualified with extensive risk management experience.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Head of Insurance Risk to join our Group Team at our Paddington headquarters. Our team works collaboratively with corporate functions, divisional leaders, and the wider business on a day-to-day basis to protect the financial integrity of the Group. This role will focus on leading the global development, negotiation, and implementation of our insurance programmes, data systems, and loss prevention initiatives. You will be communicating with the business and acting as the primary point of contact for our insurable risk profile, M&A risk assessments, and high-value claims management. This role will partner with senior internal teams on commercial projects and initiatives, offering a fantastic opportunity to build relationships across a global footprint, working closely with executive officers, functional directors, and strategic global insurance providers.

A successful candidate must be a proven self-starter and commercial leader, who is comfortable with pro-actively communicating directly, working collaboratively, and liaising at all levels.

Key responsibilities
  • Programme Management: Develop and execute the group’s global insurance portfolio (Property, Liability, Cyber, Marine, and Credit), securing optimal coverage and pricing through scale.
  • Risk Strategy & Retention: Define and manage risk transfer vs. retention strategies, including the optimisation of deductibles, SIRs, and the financial governance of captive insurers.
  • Loss Prevention & Data Analytics: Lead the development of our Loss Prevention Information Systems, risk information collection and collation processes, establishing data standards and leveraging analytics to identify emerging risk trends.
  • Claims Optimisation: Oversee all claims management and coordination to ensure efficient handling and timely recoveries, including legacy disease-related claims.
  • Commercial Partnering: Assess the insurance implications of M&A, disposals, and new ventures, while supporting commercial contract reviews to validate insurance requirements.
  • Market Relationship Management: Build and manage strategic relationships with global brokers, insurers, and loss adjusters to enhance operational delivery and strengthen placement negotiations.
About you
  • Professionally qualified (ACII or FCII) or equivalent.
  • Demonstrable progressive risk management experience within a multinational corporate, global broker or major insurer.
  • Extensive knowledge of international insurance markets, captive structures, and industrial manufacturing risk profiles.
  • Strong financial acumen with a proven track record of optimising broker engagement and leading complex placements.
  • Proven ability to translate complex risk matters into business outcomes and influence cross-functional stakeholders.
Benefits
  • Competitive salary.
  • Discretionary bonus.
  • Car allowance.
  • Private healthcare.
  • 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
  • Pension scheme, life assurance and income protection.
  • Employee Assistance Programme.
  • Employee Discounts.
  • Cycle to work scheme.

This is a hybrid role, split between the London Paddington office (3 days) and home (2 days) – however flexibility will be required at times including business travel across EMEA.

To fulfil our purpose of redefining packaging for a changing world, we aim to build a diverse, motivated, and engaged workforce. Our goal is to create a culture of inclusion where everyone is treated fairly, differences are valued, and everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. Our people come from diverse backgrounds, bring different perspectives, ideas, and experiences to generate unique solutions focused on present and future sustainability challenges. We welcome all candidates to apply, even those not meeting all criteria.

Head of Insurance Risk in City of Westminster employer: DS Smith Europe

At DS Smith, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation at our Paddington headquarters. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide comprehensive benefits including competitive salaries, private healthcare, and generous holiday allowances, all while promoting a diverse and inclusive environment where every voice is valued. Join us to lead impactful insurance risk initiatives and build meaningful relationships across our global operations, making a real difference in the sustainability of our industry.

DS Smith Europe

Contact Details:

DS Smith Europe Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Insurance Risk in City of Westminster

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the insurance and risk management sectors, especially those who work at DS Smith. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent projects and challenges. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your skills can tackle their specific needs.

Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Insurance Risk. We want to hear how you can lead and innovate in this space.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Insurance Risk in City of Westminster

Insurance Programme Development
Risk Management
Data Analytics
Claims Management
Financial Acumen
Stakeholder Engagement
Market Relationship Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Insurance Risk role. Highlight your risk management experience and any relevant qualifications, like ACII or FCII, to catch our eye!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed insurance programmes or led teams in the past.

Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, make sure to demonstrate your communication prowess in your application. Use clear, concise language and provide examples of how you've effectively communicated complex risk matters.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at DS Smith!

How to prepare for a job interview at DS Smith Europe

Know Your Insurance Inside Out

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of international insurance markets and risk management strategies. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach developing and executing a global insurance portfolio, as this will show your understanding of the role's key responsibilities.

Showcase Your Communication Skills

Since this role involves liaising with senior internal teams and external partners, practice articulating complex risk matters in a clear and concise manner. Think of examples where you've successfully influenced stakeholders or managed relationships, as these will be crucial in demonstrating your fit for the position.

Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially around claims management and loss prevention. Prepare specific examples from your past experience where you've navigated challenges in these areas, highlighting your analytical skills and strategic thinking.

Understand the Company Culture

Familiarise yourself with DS Smith's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Be ready to discuss how your background and experiences can contribute to their culture and values, as well as how you can help drive their mission of redefining packaging for a changing world.