At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape the future of a growing Life Science portfolio with strategic influence.
- Company: Join a successful specialist underwriting firm with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, strong investment support, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative leadership team driving significant portfolio growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic role that goes beyond traditional underwriting.
- Qualifications: Proven Life Science underwriting experience and strong broker relationship skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Ready to step beyond underwriting and shape the future of a growing Life Science portfolio?
This is a rare opportunity for an accomplished Life Science Underwriter to step into a strategic leadership role within one of the market's most successful specialist underwriting portfolios.
We're looking for a technically strong, commercially minded underwriting leader who wants more than just case underwriting.
This role offers the chance to influence strategy, drive portfolio growth, shape product development, and become the recognised market-facing expert for a rapidly expanding Life Science proposition.
If you're currently operating as a Senior Underwriter, Technical Specialist or Portfolio Underwriter within life sciences and feel ready to take ownership of a business line, this could be the career-defining move you've been waiting for.
The Life Science portfolio currently generates approximately £8m GWP and has ambitious plans for significant growth over the coming years, with annual expansion targets exceeding 25% year-on-year.
As Head of Life Science Underwriting, you'll be trusted to lead that growth journey by combining technical underwriting expertise with commercial leadership and market engagement.
This is not a traditional desk-based technical role.
We're seeking someone who enjoys being in front of brokers, identifying opportunities, influencing underwriting strategy and helping shape the direction of the portfolio.
You'll be part of the Trading Leadership Team, working closely with both underwriting and technical leadership functions to deliver profitable, sustainable growth.
Key duties: Take ownership of the Life Science portfolio strategy and performance Deliver profitable growth across both new business and renewals Identify untapped opportunities within broker relationships and trading portfolios Challenge existing underwriting appetite and contribute to future strategy Help accelerate growth in a business with strong investment and leadership support Act as the face of the Life Science proposition externally Build relationships with key brokers across the UK market Unearth Life Science opportunities that may sit within broader commercial accounts Champion the proposition and clearly articulate appetite, capability and competitive strengths Become a trusted adviser to brokers on complex risks Serve as the technical lead for the Life Science product Provide guidance and referral support on complex and specialist risks Influence wordings, coverage enhancements and product development Contribute to rating strategy and underwriting performance optimisation Own underwriting authority and help shape future digital and online trading capability Coach and support underwriting teams across both new business and renewals Share technical expertise and market insight across the wider business Lead through credibility and influence rather than formal line management Act as a key contributor within a collaborative matrix structure Play an active role within the Trading Leadership Team Contribute to strategic decision-making and portfolio direction Partner with technical, underwriting and distribution leaders across the business Help define what market-leading Life Science underwriting looks like over the next decade We're interested in speaking with experienced Life Science Underwriters who combine technical excellence with a commercial mindset.
To be considered you must have proven Life Science underwriting experience combined with the ability to develop broker relationships and win business.
You must have a desire for portfolio growth and trading-led underwriting with the confidence to challenge, influence and lead without direct authority.
Head of Life Science Underwriting employer: IPS Group
Join a well-established independent firm of Chartered Accountants in Selby, where you will thrive in a supportive work culture that values professional growth and development. With a diverse client base, this role offers the chance to enhance your skills while enjoying competitive benefits and a collaborative environment that fosters teamwork and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Life Science Underwriting
✨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). 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. 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 Head of Life Science Underwriting
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.
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. 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
✨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 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, 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'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.
