At a Glance
- Tasks: Support underwriting strategy and build strong relationships with broker partners.
- Company: Join Starr, the UK's largest specialist motor insurer with a global presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a passionate team committed to developing talent and fostering growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the dynamic world of motor insurance and grow your career.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of motor insurance and strong interpersonal skills are a plus.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
ERS Syndicate 218 at Lloyds is managed by Starr. We are the UK’s largest specialist motor insurer with an A+ rating and have been making motoring passions and livelihoods possible since 1946. We work exclusively with motor insurance brokers to help get under the skin of the most difficult insurance risks, helping build products to meet their customer’s needs.
Starr is a global (re)insurance and investment organisation providing property and casualty insurance solutions to business and industry. Starr has grown into one of the world’s fastest‑expanding insurance organisations, writing business in 128 countries across six continents. Our talented and experienced associates manage risk and ultimately support the profitable growth of organisations in a dynamic, competitive and ever-changing marketplace.
Role Purpose
ERS is a leading underwriter of a wide range of specialist motor insurance products. Within ERS’s strategy of being the UK’s leading specialist motor insurer, our focus is on delivering sustainable, high margin growth through the provision of quality propositions to a wide range of broker partners.
The Underwriter’s primary responsibility is to support the Senior Underwriter in executing our underwriting strategy and supporting the development of our underwriting appetite, working closely with the Pricing and Product Technology teams. You may also act as a referral point for team members with a lower level of authority helping to develop their technical knowledge and understanding.
The role is market visible, which will see you working closely with our broker-partners and forming solid trading relationships, to help ERS achieve their short to medium-term financial plans by seeking to broaden our market penetration.
Success in the role requires technical knowledge in our product(s) and frequent collaboration with other business functions to ensure that we leverage capabilities from across the business in delivering first class propositions to our chosen market.
The above duties and responsibilities are not an exhaustive list, and you may be required to undertake other reasonable duties compatible with your experience and competencies. This description may be varied from time to time to reflect changing business requirements.
Qualifications, skills and experience
- This role carries financial responsibility, as well as being recognised as, or aiming to become, a subject matter expert in your product(s). We therefore require our role-holders to demonstrate technical capability and to use commercial judgment in the fulfilment of their role.
- Knowledge of classic, modified, imported and motorhome insurance market experience is desirable.
- An ability to understand underwriting strategy and risk appetites and ability to operate within these.
- Developing strong technical knowledge of the product(s), including the features of the product, factors that drive product performance, market dynamics which influence how the product is delivered and the requirements of customers using the product(s).
- Underwriting, risk selection and pricing skills which will ensure that we optimise the financial performance of a range of product propositions in a complex and competitive market.
- Good commercial awareness that allows you to identify and take advantage of market opportunities.
- Possess an ability to understand pricing practices and methodologies, with the ability to help us constantly enhance our pricing capability, providing insight and feedback on our pricing models. Experience in these practices is a positive, but not a requirement.
- Interpersonal skills which will allow you to build and maintain relationships. Being able to articulate what a mutually beneficial relationship looks like and being comfortable having at times challenging conversations with our broker partners.
- Knowledge of the legal, regulatory and compliance provisions that apply to the UK motor insurance market.
Core behavioural competencies
- Analysis and decision making
- Strategic perspective
- Commerciality
- Relationships
- Communication and influence
- Development of self and others
Additional Information
Starr is an equal opportunity employer, which means we will consider all suitably qualified applicants regardless of gender identity or expression, ethnic origin, nationality, religion or beliefs, age, sexual orientation, disability status or any other protected characteristic. We recruit and develop our people based on merit and we're committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We offer first class training and development opportunities to all employees. Our aim is to grow our own talent and bring out the best in people.
Underwriter - Bespoke employer: ERS
At Starr, we pride ourselves on being the UK’s largest specialist motor insurer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our first-class training and development opportunities, ensuring that you can advance your career while working alongside passionate professionals in a supportive and inclusive culture. Join us in London, where you will not only contribute to our market-leading position but also build meaningful relationships with broker partners in a role that is both challenging and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Underwriter - Bespoke
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the insurance industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can’t.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your knowledge! When you get the chance to chat with brokers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your understanding of the motor insurance market. Talk about trends, challenges, and how you can contribute to ERS’s goals. It’ll show you’re not just another candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for interviews by role-playing common questions with a friend or using mock interview tools. Focus on articulating your thoughts clearly, especially around underwriting strategies and risk appetites. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through directly. It shows initiative and gives us a chance to see your enthusiasm for joining our talented team at Starr. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on your application status!
We think you need these skills to ace Underwriter - Bespoke
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Make sure you understand the ins and outs of motor insurance, especially classic and modified vehicles. Show us that you can talk the talk when it comes to underwriting strategy and risk appetites.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with our needs at ERS. We want to see how you can contribute to our team and help us grow!
Show Off Your Interpersonal Skills:We value strong relationships with our broker partners. In your application, give examples of how you've built and maintained professional relationships in the past. It’s all about collaboration!
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 the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ERS
✨Know Your Products Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the specialist motor insurance products you'll be dealing with. Brush up on the features, market dynamics, and what drives product performance. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're ready to contribute from day one.
✨Build Relationships Before You Walk In
Since this role involves working closely with broker partners, try to establish connections before your interview. Reach out on LinkedIn or through mutual contacts. This not only shows initiative but also gives you insights into their needs and expectations, which can be a great conversation starter during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Commercial Awareness
Be prepared to discuss how you identify and seize market opportunities. Think of examples from your past experience where you've successfully navigated competitive landscapes. This will highlight your ability to think strategically and make sound commercial decisions, which is crucial for the role.
✨Practice Your Interpersonal Skills
Since building relationships is key, practice articulating how you would handle challenging conversations with broker partners. Role-play scenarios with a friend or mentor to refine your approach. Showing that you can communicate effectively and maintain strong relationships will set you apart from other candidates.
