At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global insurance programmes and manage risk strategies for a multinational company.
- Company: Join DS Smith, a leader in sustainable packaging solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, private healthcare, and 25 days holiday.
- Other info: Hybrid role with opportunities for travel across EMEA.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in risk management while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Must have risk management experience and strong financial acumen.
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. Our team is fuelled by curious minds from diverse backgrounds, and this is an incredible time to join us at DS Smith.
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 include but are not limited to:- 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
So, if you are an experienced professional within the Risk Management space, looking for a new challenge in a business which prioritises creativity and encourages you to make a difference - then we might be looking for you!
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
- 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.
We are DS Smith, together with International Paper, we are a global leader in sustainable packaging solutions and other fibre-based products. We believe a better, more sustainable tomorrow is possible with the right people, who challenge and support one another to enact positive change. We employ more than 65,000 colleagues in North America and Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), who are experts in innovation, manufacturing, design, sales, sustainability, supply chain, and much more. Together with our customers, we make the world safer and more productive, one sustainable packaging solution at a time. Become part of a world-leading organisation and do your best work with us!
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 employer: DS Smith
At DS Smith, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. Located in the vibrant Paddington area of London, our hybrid working model provides flexibility while ensuring you are part of a supportive team dedicated to innovation and sustainability. With competitive benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, joining us as the Head of Insurance Risk means becoming part of a global leader where your contributions truly make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Insurance Risk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the insurance and risk management sectors on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, attend webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and its recent projects, especially in risk management. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, and think of examples that showcase your skills in programme management and claims optimisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your achievements in risk management, particularly in loss prevention and data analytics. This can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your proactive approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from our site, so make sure to submit your application there. It shows your genuine interest in joining DS Smith and helps us keep track of your application more efficiently.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Insurance Risk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Insurance Risk role. Highlight your relevant experience in risk management and insurance, and don’t forget to showcase your achievements in previous roles. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
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 at DS Smith. Share your passion for risk management and how your background aligns with our mission. Remember, we love a good story!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a key communicator in this role, it’s essential to demonstrate your communication skills in your application. Use clear and concise language, and make sure to articulate your thoughts well. We’re looking for someone who can engage with stakeholders at all levels!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll get to explore more about our culture and values while you’re there!
How to prepare for a job interview at DS Smith
✨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 specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your understanding of complex insurance programmes and how you've optimised coverage in the past.
✨Showcase Your Data Skills
Since this role involves leading loss prevention and data analytics, be ready to talk about your experience with data systems. Bring examples of how you've used data to identify emerging risk trends or improve risk information processes in previous roles.
✨Build Relationships in the Room
This position requires strong commercial partnering skills. During the interview, focus on your ability to build relationships with stakeholders at all levels. Share stories that highlight your collaborative approach and how you've successfully influenced cross-functional teams in the past.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in risk management. Think about potential challenges you might face in this role and prepare thoughtful responses that showcase your strategic thinking and decision-making skills.
