At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to analyse global risks and support international trade projects.
- Company: Howden, a global insurance group with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: £40,000 salary, hybrid work, 25 days leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a structured 18-month development programme and a vibrant team culture.
- Why this job: Make an impact in global finance while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Recent graduates or final-year students from any degree background welcome.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
Howden is a global insurance group with employee ownership at its heart. Together, we have pushed the boundaries of insurance. We are united by a shared passion and no-limits mindset, and our strength lies in our ability to collaborate as a powerful international team comprised of 24,000 employees spanning over 56 countries. People join Howden for many different reasons, but they stay for the same one: our culture. It’s what sets us apart, and the reason our employees have been turning down headhunters for years. Whatever your priorities – work / life balance, career progression, sustainability, volunteering – you’ll find like-minded people driving change at Howden.
Specialty Credit & Political Risk Graduate Programme
Please read before submitting: You may only apply to one graduate programme for our 2027 intake. Submitting duplicate applications will result in them not being considered.
Location: London
Start date: September 2027
Salary: £40,000
Working structure: Hybrid
Help Shape Global Trade, Finance and Investment
Looking for a graduate role where you'll combine analytical thinking, commercial awareness and relationship-building whilst being at the centre of geopolitical events? Join Howden's Credit & Political Risk team and learn how we help organisations navigate the risks that come with lending, trading and investing around the world. From supporting major infrastructure projects to protecting international trade transactions, we work with financial institutions, corporates, funds and public entities across a wide range of industries. As part of our global team, you'll gain exposure to complex risks, innovative solutions and some of the most interesting transactions in the market. This is a fast-paced, international environment where you'll develop both technical knowledge and commercial skills while learning how transactions are negotiated, structured and executed. This is a permanent role supported by a structured development programme, designed to accelerate your technical expertise, professional confidence and long-term career growth.
What you’ll be doing?
- Learn how Credit & Political Risk Insurance supports businesses, financial institutions and investors operating around the world.
- Support the placement of insurance solutions that help clients manage financial and political risks.
- Research countries, industries, companies and market trends to support client activity and business development.
- Assist in preparing client presentations, reports and insurance submissions.
- Build relationships with clients, insurers and internal teams across the business.
Who are we looking for?
No insurance experience is needed; we’ll teach you everything you need to know!
- A recent graduate, or in your final year of university study from any degree background.
- Interested in global markets, international business and current affairs, with a curiosity about how organisations manage financial and political risks.
- A strong communicator who enjoys building relationships with a range of people.
- Analytical and naturally curious, and willing to ask questions.
- Comfortable working with numbers and data to support decision-making and problem-solving.
- Organised and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Resilient and able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment where priorities can change quickly.
- Someone who takes ownership, shows initiative and enjoys learning new concepts and industries.
- A collaborative team player who enjoys working across various teams.
To be eligible for our programme, you must have the full and unrestricted right to work in the UK.
Application process
Our application process is designed to help you show your potential, not to test what you already know!
- Online application form – no CV required: We believe you're more than just a document, so we won’t ask you to submit a CV. Please upload a blank document on the application form.
- Online gamified assessment: We’ve created games that will help us understand your natural strengths and how you approach different situations. There are no right or wrong answers. You can complete this stage on your phone or laptop, whichever suits you best!
- Pre-recorded video interview: You will record your answers to a few questions using your phone or laptop, giving you the chance to tell us more about yourself in your own time in a relaxed setting.
- Assessment centre: Our final stage is an in-person assessment centre at one of our offices. You'll take part in some fun group activities and meet our team in a relaxed setting. This day is all about getting to know you better and for you to see what it's like to be part of Howden and experience our culture. We'll cover all your travel costs for this day, because where you are now, shouldn’t hold back your future!
Why should you apply?
At Howden, people are at the heart of everything we do. As an employee-owned business, we believe success is built through collaboration, learning and supporting one another. You'll join a permanent role from day one and take part in our structured 18-month development programme, designed to accelerate your technical, commercial and professional growth.
You’ll also benefit from:
- A starting salary of £40,000 and a generous pension scheme.
- Opportunity to complete fully funded professional qualifications, such as the CII or CFA, to support your long-term career development.
- Structured learning and development through our 18-month graduate development programme.
- 25 days' annual leave, plus bank holidays and an additional day off at Christmas.
- Access to discounted personal health policies, wellbeing support and a range of employee benefits and insurance products.
- 2 days allocated to take part in volunteering schemes.
Ready to apply?
Follow our TikTok pages: @earlycareersjo and @millieinsurancecareers, and explore our Connectr hub to discover more about Howden, our culture, and the insurance industry. You'll find resources to help you prepare for our recruitment process and understand which career path could be the best fit for you.
What do we offer in return?
A career that you define. At Howden, we value diversity – there is no one Howden type. Instead, we’re looking for individuals who share the same values as us:
- Our successes have all come from someone brave enough to try something new.
- We support each other in the small everyday moments and the bigger challenges.
- We are determined to make a positive difference at work and beyond.
Reasonable adjustments
We're committed to providing reasonable accommodations at Howden to ensure that our positions align well with your needs. Besides the usual adjustments such as software, IT, and office setups, we can also accommodate other changes such as flexible hours or hybrid working. If you're excited by this role but have some doubts about whether it’s the right fit for you, send us your application – if your profile fits the role’s criteria, we will be in touch to assist in helping to get you set up with any reasonable adjustments you may require.
Credit & Political Risk Graduate Programme 2027 in London employer: London Insurance Life
Howden is an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and dynamic work culture, perfect for those who thrive in fast-paced environments. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, we offer comprehensive training and development opportunities to help you excel in your role as a Hybrid Mortgage Applications Specialist. Located in a vibrant area, our team enjoys a supportive atmosphere where accuracy and teamwork are highly valued, making it a rewarding place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Credit & Political Risk Graduate Programme 2027 in London
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like London Insurance Life. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Credit & Political Risk Graduate Programme 2027 in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to London Insurance Life.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on London Insurance Life's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at London Insurance Life
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with London Insurance Life.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at London Insurance Life will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former London Insurance Life employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
