At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and develop client relationships in commercial insurance without cold calling.
- Company: Independent insurance broker with a supportive and collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous holiday, and professional development support.
- Other info: Enjoy a balance of work and life with hybrid options and a friendly team.
- Why this job: Focus on client service in a relaxed environment with no pressure sales tactics.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Commercial Account Executive and strong customer service skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
York City Centre | Full-Time or Part-Time | Hybrid & Flexible Working
Build Trusted Client Relationships — Without Cold Calling or Aggressive Targets
At Illingworths, we believe the best insurance advice comes from experience, trust, and genuinely understanding our clients’ businesses. For more than 50 years, we’ve grown through reputation and referrals — not pressure sales tactics or unrealistic KPIs. We’re now looking for an experienced Commercial Account Executive to join our friendly, supportive team in the heart of York. Whether you’re seeking a full‑time role or greater flexibility through part‑time or hybrid working, we’re open to creating the right fit for the right person.
Founded in York in 1973, Illingworths is one of Yorkshire’s leading independent Insurance Brokers and Financial Services Advisers. Unlike many firms in the industry, we’ve chosen to remain proudly independent rather than become part of a national consolidator. That independence gives our team something increasingly rare in the industry: stability, consistency, and a genuinely personal working environment. Our directors remain actively involved in the day‑to‑day business, creating an approachable, collaborative culture where people are valued, supported, and trusted to do their best work.
Relationships matter more than sales scripts
- Your expertise and judgement are genuinely valued
- You’ll inherit an established portfolio — no need to bring your own book of business
- Colleagues work together in a relaxed, supportive environment
The Role
You’ll manage and develop an existing portfolio of commercial insurance clients, providing tailored advice and ongoing support across a broad range of risks, including:
- Commercial Combined Business Packages
- Liability
- Property Owners
- Construction
- Fleet
- Charities
- Directors & Officers (D&O)
- Professional Indemnity
- Cyber
- And more
You’ll handle all aspects of client servicing, including renewals, new business, mid‑term adjustments, and claims support, with occasional client visits for larger or more complex cases.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Building strong, long‑term relationships with clients and insurers
- Preparing market presentations and placing risks through schemes, portals, and the open market
- Reviewing client requirements ahead of renewals
- Negotiating competitive terms, cover, and premiums
- Preparing quotations, reports, and recommendations
- Managing policy documentation accurately and efficiently
- Supporting clients throughout the policy lifecycle, including claims
- Handling invoicing, finance arrangements, and payments
- Maintaining accurate records and risk information
- Keeping up to date with market developments and insurance products
About You
We’re looking for someone with previous Commercial Account Executive experience who enjoys delivering high‑quality advice and building lasting client relationships. You’ll likely be someone who:
- Takes pride in providing excellent customer service
- Communicates confidently and professionally
- Has strong commercial insurance knowledge
- Works well independently and collaboratively
- Is organised, proactive, and detail‑oriented
- Enjoys understanding clients’ businesses and identifying ways to support them
Experience with OpenGI, insurer portals, and Microsoft Office would be beneficial, although attitude and team fit are equally important to us.
Flexibility & Working Arrangements
- Full‑time preferred (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm)
- Part‑time applications welcomed
- Hybrid working available
- Flexible working arrangements can be discussed
We understand that people work best when they have balance and flexibility, and we’re happy to have open conversations around what works for both you and the business.
What We Offer
- Minimum 22 days holiday plus bank holidays, increasing with service
- Company pension with employer contributions
- Life insurance at 2× annual salary
- Perkbox membership with retail discounts and cinema tickets
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Access to selected insurance products for you and your family on a commission‑free basis, including home, motor, and travel insurance
- Ongoing support for professional qualifications
Join Our Team
If you’re looking for a role where you can focus on delivering great client service, enjoy genuine flexibility, and be part of a supportive independent business that values its people, we’d love to hear from you.
Commercial Account Executive employer: Illingworths Insurance & Financial Services
At Illingworths, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture in the heart of York City Centre. With flexible working arrangements, competitive benefits, and a commitment to employee growth, we empower our team to build trusted client relationships without the pressure of aggressive sales tactics. Join us to enjoy a stable and personal working environment where your expertise is genuinely valued and you can thrive both professionally and personally.
Contact Details:
Illingworths Insurance & Financial Services Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Account Executive
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend local events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. Building relationships can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your pitch! You never know when you’ll meet someone who could help you land that dream job. Have a clear, concise way to explain who you are, what you do, and what you’re looking for. Make it memorable!
✨Tip Number 3
Research the company culture! Before any interview, dive into what makes Illingworths tick. Understanding their values and how they operate will help you tailor your approach and show you’re a perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our supportive team. Don’t miss out on the chance to join us!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Account Executive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Commercial Account Executive role. Highlight your experience in commercial insurance and how it aligns with our values of building trusted client relationships.
Showcase Your Client Relationship Skills:We want to see how you’ve built strong, long-term relationships in your previous roles. Share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to provide excellent customer service and support clients throughout their journey.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to read and understand your key achievements and skills relevant to the role.
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 without any hassle!
How to prepare for a job interview at Illingworths Insurance & Financial Services
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your commercial insurance knowledge. Understand the different types of policies and risks mentioned in the job description, like liability and professional indemnity. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also have the expertise to back it up.
✨Build Rapport
Since Illingworths values relationships over sales tactics, focus on building a genuine connection with your interviewers. Be friendly, approachable, and show that you understand the importance of trust in client relationships. Share examples from your past where you've successfully built long-term client connections.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask during the interview. This could be about their approach to client servicing or how they support their team’s professional development. It shows you're engaged and genuinely interested in how you can fit into their culture.
✨Show Flexibility
Highlight your adaptability and willingness to work in a hybrid or flexible environment. Discuss how you manage your time effectively and how you can contribute to the team, whether working remotely or in the office. This aligns perfectly with their emphasis on flexibility and balance.
