At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to learn about surety insurance and work directly with clients.
- Company: Howden CAP, a leader in insurance advisory with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days leave, health discounts, and professional training.
- Other info: Fun application process with no CV required and travel costs covered for assessment day.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in insurance with hands-on experience and mentorship.
- Qualifications: Recent Law or Finance graduates with strong analytical and interpersonal skills.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Howden CAP (Capital, Advisory and Placement) advises banks, large corporate firms and investment funds on how insurance can facilitate transactions such as investments, loans and acquisitions. Within CAP is our Surety Team who provide access to bespoke surety bonding for international and complex risks, acting as the link between clients and insurers. Surety insurance helps protect clients if a business fails to meet its contractual obligations, such as completing a project or paying what it owes. A surety bond is a promise backed by an insurer and if the business fails to deliver, the insurer steps in to protect the client.
The Graduate Programme
You will join a collaborative and ambitious team where our clients are at the centre of everything we do. We are looking for curious Law and Finance graduates who are keen to start their careers in insurance. This programme is designed to give you early exposure to real client work, supported by structured training and hands-on learning from experienced professionals.
What you'll be doing
- Learn about our surety products and the end-to-end process for placing surety bonds.
- Work directly with clients, insurers and underwriters to structure and place surety bonds.
- Review legal contracts, financial records to identify any risks that may make the surety bond too risky for an insurer.
- Support with reviewing client documentation and preparing materials for upcoming meetings.
- Assist with taking meeting notes to ensure that client files are accurate and up to date.
- Gain early exposure to client and insurer meetings, learning how our clients are advised and how deals are negotiated.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external contacts.
What are we looking for?
- No experience or technical knowledge is required - we'll teach you everything you need to know!
- Soon-to-be or recent Law and Finance graduates who have a strong interest in commercial, legal, and financial matters.
- A keen eye for detail and strong analytical skills.
- Individuals with strong interpersonal skills who thrive on connecting and building relationships with others.
- Ability to influence and negotiate in professional settings.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, and comfortable speaking on the phone with senior individuals.
- Resilient and hard-working graduates who are curious to learn and develop.
- You must have full unrestricted right to work in the UK.
Why apply?
- Opportunity to complete fully funded professional and technical training relevant for your role and career pathway.
- Access to discounted personal health policies as well as a range of insurance products.
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and an extra day off for Christmas.
- Competitive salary and generous pension scheme.
- Excellent training and development schemes and accelerated career progression.
- Cycle to work loan scheme and discount on gym memberships.
- 2 days allocated to take part in volunteering schemes.
Application process
Our application process is designed to help you show your potential, not to test what you already know!
- Online application form - no CV required: We believe you're more than just a document, so we won't ask you to submit a CV. Please upload a blank document on the application form.
- Online gamified assessment: These games will help us understand your natural strengths and how you approach different situations. There are no right or wrong answers. You can complete this stage on your phone or laptop, whichever suits you best!
- Pre-recorded video interview: You will record your answers to a few questions using your phone or laptop, giving you the chance to tell us more about yourself in your own time in a relaxed setting.
- Assessment centre: Our final stage is an in-person assessment day at one of our offices close to you. You'll take part in some fun group activities and meet our team in a relaxed setting. This day is all about getting to know you better and for you to see what it's like to be part of Howden and experience our culture. We'll cover all your travel costs for this day!
At Howden, we are committed to developing and maintaining a culture of equality and diversity in the workplace and welcome applications from all backgrounds.
Surety Insurance Graduate Programme employer: Howden
Howden CAP is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering a structured Graduate Programme designed for Law and Finance graduates eager to embark on a rewarding career in insurance. With a collaborative work culture, competitive salary, generous benefits including 25 days annual leave, and opportunities for professional training, employees are empowered to thrive while making meaningful contributions to client success. Located in the UK, Howden fosters an inclusive environment where curiosity and resilience are celebrated, ensuring that every team member can build strong relationships and advance their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Surety Insurance Graduate Programme
✨Get Clued Up on Insurance Events
Join local insurance events or workshops to network and soak in knowledge about the industry. It's a great way to meet potential employers, like Howden, and show off your enthusiasm for the field. Plus, you’ll gain insights that'll make you stand out during your interviews!
✨Tap into Your University’s Resources
Many universities offer career services specifically tailored for students looking for trainee roles in insurance. Make sure to utilise these—they can connect you with alumni in the industry or help you snag those hidden opportunities that aren't advertised widely!
✨Showcase Your Knowledge
Start a blog or social media account where you can share insights about current trends in insurance. This demonstrates your passion and keeps you in the minds of recruiters at places like Howden. A personal touch always helps in making a memorable impression!
✨Apply Through Our Website & Make It Personal
Don’t just hit 'apply' on the Howden website. Tailor your application to highlight your interest in the insurance sector and showcase any relevant projects or experiences. A few personal touches can go a long way in landing that trainee spot!
We think you need these skills to ace Surety Insurance Graduate Programme
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Analytical Skills:In the insurance industry, analytical skills are a must. Make sure to showcase any relevant coursework or projects where you've solved complex problems or worked with data. This can really set you apart, especially in your CV or cover letter!
Show Your Interest in the Sector:For a trainee role, it’s super important to demonstrate your genuine interest in insurance. Talk about any internships, part-time jobs, or relevant studies that have sparked your passion for this field. We want to see that you're eager to learn and grow with us at Howden!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:Your cover letter should reflect your enthusiasm for the trainee position at Howden. Use it to explain why you're excited about a career in insurance and what you hope to learn during your time with us. Make it personal and engaging—it’ll catch our eye for sure!
Include Relevant Certifications or Courses:Even as a trainee, any extra certifications or courses related to insurance can really boost your application. Whether it's online courses or workshops, throw them in your CV to show us that you’re proactive about your professional development. It’ll demonstrate your commitment to stepping into this industry with enthusiasm!
How to prepare for a job interview at Howden
✨Understand the Basics of Insurance
Since you're interviewing for a trainee role in insurance, it’s vital to brush up on the key concepts in the industry. Familiarise yourself with terms like underwriting, risk assessment, and claims processing. It shows your genuine interest and helps you answer those technical questions more confidently.
✨Prepare for Scenario-based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions during your interview! They might dive into how you would handle specific insurance situations or customer complaints. Think about examples from your studies or past experiences where you demonstrated problem-solving and customer service skills. They're looking for how you approach issues in a practical setting.
✨Focus on Your Learning Potential
As a trainee, your eagerness to learn is key. Be ready to discuss what excites you about the insurance field and how you plan to grow within the role at Howden. Highlighting your adaptability and willingness to learn will make a great impression.
✨Show Your People Skills
Insurance is all about building relationships, whether it's with clients or colleagues. Prepare to share experiences where you’ve effectively communicated or worked as part of a team. Remember, your soft skills are just as important as your technical knowledge in this industry!
