The Construction Manager and the Contractor in Bolton

IPS Group are working closely with a specialist Insurer with an excellent reputation in the UK market. We are supporting them in the search for a Head of Construction Underwriting in this key role which will help shape the direction of the business.

This position can be based in either Manchester, Leeds or potentially Birmingham with some travel to the London office, which will be fully expensed. Reporting directly into the UK Underwriting Director, this position will lead a team of three based in the London office and play an influential part in shaping the underwriting approach as the business continues to grow.

This is a key position within the underwriting leadership team, responsible for guiding a small but established group of underwriters while helping to steer the development of our construction portfolio. Recent success in securing several significant new wins in the latent defects space means this is an especially exciting time to join. The team handles a mix of new e-trade opportunities, trades, and contractor business.

You will work closely with colleagues across underwriting, actuarial, sales and operations to help shape pricing approaches, refine product appetite, and support the launch and promotion of new propositions. The role also involves ensuring underwriting governance is met, providing guidance on referrals, and contributing to the wider development of underwriting capability across the team.

Strong communication skills and the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders will be important, as will a history of delivering profitable results in the construction market. We are looking for someone who has built a successful underwriting career within construction who brings strong technical knowledge of construction products and market trends.

Experience in developing or maintaining pricing models will be valuable, as will the ability to work collaboratively across a range of teams to deliver new ideas and improve how the company trades. Leadership experience, whether formal or informal, will be required, as this role is as much about developing a team and helping them grow as it is about driving product performance.

This opportunity offers a salary of around £125,000 plus a 30% bonus and benefits, along with a hybrid working model (three days in the office and two from home). For the right person, it’s a chance to take ownership of a growing product area, shape its future direction, and make a real difference in a business that is continuing to expand.