At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive growth by building relationships and underwriting Life Science risks.
- Company: Fast-growing Managing General Agent (MGA) with an entrepreneurial culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, comprehensive benefits, and clear progression opportunities.
- Other info: Autonomy and influence over regional strategy in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be a key player in shaping a growing MGA and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in Life Science underwriting and strong relationship management skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Location: Manchester (Regional role – other North West / regional locations considered)
Salary: £70,000 – £90,000 + Bonus + Benefits
Reporting to: Underwriting Director
The Opportunity
We're working with a fast-growing Managing General Agent (MGA) to recruit a Senior Life Science Underwriter to act as right hand to the Underwriting Director, playing a pivotal role in driving growth across the region. This is a rare opportunity for an experienced underwriter who wants the autonomy and entrepreneurial pace of an MGA, combined with genuine commercial impact — someone who is as comfortable in front of a broker pitching new business as they are pricing a complex risk within delegated authority.
This isn't a back-office technical role. You'll be out in the market, building relationships, winning business, and acting as a trusted second-in-command to the Director — with a clear path to step up further as the team, binder, and portfolio grow. It's an ideal move for someone who wants to help build something, with real input into proposition, appetite, and strategy rather than just executing on someone else's book.
What You'll Be Doing
- Leading on new business development and broker distribution across the region, building and maintaining strong relationships with key broker partners
- Acting as deputy to the Underwriting Director, supporting strategic decisions and stepping in on their behalf where needed
- Underwriting a portfolio of Life Science risks (e.g. medical devices, pharmaceuticals, biotech, healthcare products/services — adjust to your book) within delegated underwriting authority, applying strong technical judgement to pricing, terms, and risk selection
- Identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, proactively growing the regional footprint and binder income
- Representing the business at broker meetings, industry events, and networking opportunities to raise market profile
- Collaborating closely with underwriting, claims, and distribution colleagues to ensure a joined-up approach to growth
- Supporting the Director on portfolio strategy, performance, and capacity/carrier relationships, including input into MI and bordereaux reporting
- Helping to shape appetite, pricing, and proposition as the MGA continues to grow
What We're Looking For
- Proven experience as a Life Science / Life Sciences Underwriter, ideally at Senior level
- MGA, Lloyd's, or delegated authority experience is highly desirable, though strong candidates from insurer backgrounds with the right entrepreneurial mindset will also be considered
- A strong track record in distribution, broker relationship management, and new business production
- Solid technical underwriting skills — confident pricing and structuring complex risks, not just relationship-led
- Comfortable operating with autonomy and taking on responsibility beyond the day-to-day underwriting remit, in a leaner, faster-paced MGA environment
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the credibility to represent the business externally
- Ambition to grow into a more senior leadership role over time
- Based in or around Manchester, with flexibility to travel across the region as needed
What's on Offer
- £70,000 – £90,000 base salary (dependent on experience)
- Performance-related bonus
- Comprehensive benefits package
- A genuine number 2 position with visibility, autonomy, and influence over regional strategy
- The chance to help shape and build a growing MGA proposition, not just administer an existing book
- Clear progression opportunities within a growing team
Senior Life Science Underwriter in Manchester employer: IDEX Consulting Ltd
IDEX Consulting Ltd is an excellent employer that values innovation and integrity, offering a dynamic work culture where compliance and operational excellence are at the forefront of business growth. With flexible working arrangements and a commitment to employee development, team members are empowered to shape processes and drive meaningful change within the insurance sector. Join us in a role that not only challenges you but also rewards your contributions in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Life Science Underwriter in Manchester
✨Dive Into Industry Networking Events
Get your foot in the door by attending insurance industry events and conferences. Not only will you learn about the latest trends, but you'll also meet potential employers and industry peers. Check out local chapters of professional bodies like the Chartered Insurance Institute for valuable meetups.
✨Use LinkedIn to Your Advantage
Don’t underestimate the power of LinkedIn in the insurance world. Engage with industry content, join relevant groups, and connect with professionals at companies you admire (like IDEX Consulting Ltd). A thoughtful message explaining your interest can really make a difference!
✨Look Out for Graduate Schemes
Many firms in insurance have structured graduate programmes. Keep an eye on application windows and utilise your university's career services for insider tips. These schemes are designed to develop talent and often lead to permanent roles after your initial training.
✨Leverage Your Current Connections
Got friends or family in the industry? Now’s the time to reach out! Personal referrals can give you a head start, so let them know you're on the lookout for full-time opportunities at places like IDEX Consulting Ltd. Don’t shy away from asking for a coffee chat; you never know what doors it might open!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Life Science Underwriter in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Analytical Skills:In insurance, we love a candidate who can crunch numbers and analyse data effectively. When crafting your CV, make sure to showcase any relevant coursework or experiences that highlight your analytical abilities, especially if you’ve tackled risk assessment or financial modelling.
Showcase Industry Knowledge:Don’t be shy about your knowledge of the insurance sector! We want to see that you've done your homework on current trends, regulations, and challenges in the industry. Mention any relevant projects or studies you’ve completed that demonstrate your understanding of the field in your cover letter.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you’re passionate about insurance. Share any personal experiences or what drew you into this profession. We’re looking for enthusiasm and a clear motivation for why you want to be part of our team at IDEX Consulting Ltd.
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don't just send a generic CV! Focus on tailoring it specifically for the insurance role at IDEX Consulting Ltd. Highlight relevant skills such as risk management, customer service experience, or any certifications you've earned in the industry to make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at IDEX Consulting Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers: Insurance Fundamentals
Brush up on your understanding of key insurance concepts, like underwriting principles and risk assessment. Expect the interviewer at IDEX Consulting Ltd to throw some technical questions your way, so be ready to demonstrate your grasp of these essentials.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Side
In the insurance world, it's all about data. Prepare to discuss any analytical tools or methodologies you've used in past experiences. If you have a portfolio of projects where you've tackled complex data, bring that along to impress the team!
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
As a full-timer at IDEX Consulting Ltd, they'll want to know how you handle real-life scenarios, not just theory. Think about challenges you've faced in teamwork or customer service, and how those experiences can relate to a career in insurance.
✨Know the Company Culture Inside Out
Understanding IDEX Consulting Ltd's values and workplace culture is essential. Don’t just memorise their mission statement; think about how your personal values align with theirs. This will show your genuine interest in being part of their team long-term.
