IPS Group are supporting a leading insurer in the search for an experienced Senior Underwriter to join its established Life Science team.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced underwriter to step into a role that offers far more than day-to-day underwriting responsibilities. Acting as the Team Manager's trusted deputy, you'll play a key role in the continued growth and development of a highly respected Life Science portfolio while helping to shape the technical direction of the team.
You'll take ownership of some of the portfolio's largest and most complex renewal accounts, underwriting risks across pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, clinical trials, cosmetics, vitamins & supplements, and research & development organisations. Typically working on accounts averaging around £50,000 premium, with larger cases significantly exceeding this, you'll be responsible for negotiating terms, assessing complex exposures and maintaining underwriting profitability.
In addition to underwriting responsibilities, you'll act as a technical referral point for colleagues, supporting the development of junior team members and helping to raise capability across the wider team. You'll also contribute to trading discussions, support strategic decision-making and deputise for the Team Manager when required.
We're keen to speak with candidates who have strong underwriting experience within Life Science, Property & Casualty or Commercial Combined business. Whilst previous Life Science experience would be highly desirable, applications are equally welcomed from technically strong Property & Casualty and Commercial Combined Underwriters looking to specialise within the Life Science market.
The successful individual will combine strong technical underwriting ability with commercial awareness, leadership potential and excellent relationship-building skills. You'll be a confident decision maker who enjoys mentoring others, engaging with brokers and contributing to portfolio growth.
Having recently invested in an enhanced Life Science proposition with broader coverage and additional value-added services, the business is entering an exciting phase of growth. As a result, this role offers genuine visibility with senior leadership and excellent long-term progression opportunities within leadership, people management or product development.
For underwriters looking to combine technical complexity, strategic influence and leadership responsibility within one of the most specialist areas of commercial insurance, this represents an outstanding career opportunity.
For further information or a confidential discussion, please contact Richard Coleman at the IPS Group.
Senior Life Science Underwriter in Birmingham employer: IPS Group Careers
Join a dynamic and supportive insurance business that values your leadership skills and offers a collaborative work culture. With opportunities for professional growth and development, you'll be at the forefront of driving team performance and customer satisfaction in a hybrid working environment that balances office presence with flexibility. Located in Sheffield with travel to the South Coast, this role provides a unique chance to influence key strategic initiatives while enjoying comprehensive benefits and a strong focus on employee engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Life Science Underwriter in Birmingham
✨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 IPS Group Careers). 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 IPS Group Careers. Don’t shy away from asking for a coffee chat; you never know what doors it might open!
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 IPS Group Careers.
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don't just send a generic CV! Focus on tailoring it specifically for the insurance role at IPS Group Careers. 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 IPS Group Careers
✨Know Your Numbers: Insurance Fundamentals
Brush up on your understanding of key insurance concepts, like underwriting principles and risk assessment. Expect the interviewer at IPS Group Careers 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 IPS Group Careers, 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 IPS Group Careers'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.
