At a Glance
- Tasks: Take charge of portfolio performance and profitability in a strategic underwriting role.
- Company: Fast-growing commercial MGA with a focus on innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping underwriting strategy and product direction.
- Qualifications: Experience in portfolio underwriting and strong analytical skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and influence.
An established and fast-growing commercial MGA is looking to hire an experienced Portfolio Underwriter to take ownership of performance and profitability across key SME portfolios.
This is a genuinely strategic underwriting role - combining hands-on technical expertise with data-driven portfolio management and real influence over underwriting strategy, pricing and product development.
The Role
- Accountable for the performance of assigned product and scheme portfolios, using MI and market insight to drive profitable growth and ensure alignment with risk appetite.
- Key responsibilities include:
- Owning portfolio performance against budget and profitability targets
- Analysing MI to identify trends, risks and opportunities, and implementing corrective actions
- Developing and refining underwriting strategies, rules and terms
- Leading deep-dive analysis across conversion, retention, claims and customer behaviour
- Producing regular portfolio reporting and independent monthly analysis
- Supporting the full product lifecycle, including documentation and underwriting guides
- Contributing to strategic projects focused on growth, pricing and product evolution
- Building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and senior leadership
- Representing the business in relevant market and MGA forums
Experience required
- Proven experience managing portfolio underwriting performance
- Strong technical background in SME commercial underwriting (property & liability)
- Confident working with MI, data and analytics to inform strategic decisions
- Experience in MGA, insurer or delegated authority environments preferred
- Solid understanding of underwriting principles, risk selection and the underwriting cycle
- Commercial mindset with the confidence to challenge and influence
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Why Apply?
- High-impact role with real strategic ownership
- Entrepreneurial, growth-focused environment
- Opportunity to shape underwriting strategy and product direction
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Hybrid working with a Birmingham base
Interested? Drop me a message or apply directly for a confidential conversation.
Portfolio Underwriter in Birmingham employer: FryerMiles Recruitment
Contact Detail:
FryerMiles Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Portfolio Underwriter in Birmingham
β¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local events. We all know that sometimes itβs not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Portfolio Underwriter role.
β¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge and understanding of MI. We recommend practising common interview questions related to portfolio performance and profitability so you can showcase your expertise confidently.
β¨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in past roles. We want to see how you can apply that experience to influence underwriting strategy and product development.
β¨Tip Number 4
Donβt forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. And remember, applying through our website gives you a direct line to us!
We think you need these skills to ace Portfolio Underwriter in Birmingham
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Portfolio Underwriter role. Highlight your experience in managing portfolio performance and your technical background in SME commercial underwriting. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since this role involves a lot of data-driven decision-making, donβt forget to showcase your analytical skills. Mention specific examples where you've used MI and analytics to drive profitable growth or identify trends. This will help us see your strategic mindset!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how you can contribute to our growth-focused environment. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear understanding of the position!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. Itβs the best way for us to receive your application and ensures youβre considered for the role. Plus, it makes the process smoother for both of us!
How to prepare for a job interview at FryerMiles Recruitment
β¨Know Your Numbers
As a Portfolio Underwriter, you'll need to be comfortable with MI and data analytics. Brush up on key metrics related to portfolio performance, profitability targets, and market trends. Being able to discuss these confidently will show your technical expertise and strategic mindset.
β¨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've previously influenced underwriting strategies or improved portfolio performance. Think about specific situations where you identified risks or opportunities and the actions you took. This will demonstrate your ability to think critically and strategically in a fast-paced environment.
β¨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Before the interview, consider how you can establish rapport with internal stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with teams in the past and how you plan to build relationships in this new role.
β¨Understand the Market Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the current trends in the commercial lines sector, especially regarding SME portfolios. Being knowledgeable about competitors and market dynamics will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you're proactive and engaged with the industry.