At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Transportation underwriting team and drive profitable growth in US insurance.
- Company: Join Munich Re Specialty North America, a leader in innovative insurance solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 25 days leave, health perks, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive culture that values innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a dynamic environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in underwriting and strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
Munich Re Specialty North America is a leading expert in understanding and connecting US coverholders and brokers to flexible and innovative insurance solutions. We are also a registered Lloyd’s Broker. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Munich Re, we have access to the expertise, products and risk appetite of one of the largest and most successful insurance groups in the world. We are specialists in offering expertise in underwriting, broking and capacity management for US Excess and Surplus (E&S) lines insurance solutions.
Why join us? We are a responsible employer, with a reputation for innovation and adding value in the insurance distribution chain. As our business continues to grow, we are committed to expanding our team and providing development opportunities to ensure we are always supporting our people in their career journey. Our talent pool makes us who we are, and our inclusive culture means we are looking to continue to build our team with broad expertise, diverse backgrounds, and ambitious employees. Being part of Bell & Clements provides access to multiple health and wellbeing benefits, work-life balance initiatives (including hybrid working), financial wellbeing packages as well as training, development and career opportunities.
Purpose of the Role: To provide day-to-day underwriting leadership of the Transportation department, driving the profitable underwriting, production and development of US Transportation business across both In-House and Delegated Authority portfolios. Working in close partnership with the Head of Direct Underwriting, the role is responsible for delivering profitable growth and implementing the strategic business plan for the Transportation department.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Leadership & People Management: Provide overall leadership and management of the in-house Transportation underwriting department. Take responsibility for day-to-day staffing, mentorship and on-the-job training of the team. Foster a culture of cross-collaboration and synergy across Munich Re teams, departments and group companies. Embrace and actively implement the core principles of Continuous Conversations — including commitments, feedback and development — in day-to-day activities. Take ownership of personal and professional development by setting clear commitments and engaging in regular, constructive feedback in line with Continuous Conversations.
- Underwriting & Business Development: Oversee and continually seek to optimise the underwriting performance and processes of the Transportation department. Analyse underwriting data and statistics to identify trends and inform decision-making. In conjunction with the Head of Direct Underwriting, develop and deliver the annual business plan for the Transportation team. Maintain and develop existing client and broker relationships whilst proactively creating new business relationships. Implement and manage the department's annual travel programme, including office visits and conference attendance as required. Propose new wordings and clauses, or amendments to existing ones, to reflect evolving market conditions. Develop new coverages and products in line with market opportunities and strategic objectives. Drive forward and expand the digital capabilities of Transportation underwriting. Produce regular management and committee reports as required.
- Data Governance: Act as Deputy Data Owner, supporting the Lead Data Owner in the oversight and maintenance of the Data Asset Register. Assist in the implementation and ongoing oversight of Data Classification, and review data access rights and the use of data in respect of storage, transfer and retention. Work in conjunction with the Data Protection Officer on Data Access Requests and related matters. Approve access to data through file share and IT systems, and assist in the anonymisation of data where required. Ensure that appropriate controls are in place to manage data in line with Munich Re Specialty North America's policies and procedures. Support the Lead Data Owner within the applicable business unit(s) on data protection enquiries, and undertake specific Data Protection training (e.g. Data Classification) as required. Work collaboratively with the Lead Data Owner, Data Protection Officer, Chief Risk, Compliance and Legal Officer, and Compliance Officer to ensure ongoing regulatory and policy compliance.
- Compliance: Abide by all policies and procedures of Munich Re North America – Binding Authorities.
Benefits: This position is offered on a Permanent basis. Annual salary will be dependent on the skills and experience of the successful candidate. Annual leave - 25 days per year (plus bank holidays), increases with length of service. Health & Wellbeing – our offering includes private medical insurance for employees, their partners and their families, a Digital GP service and an annual allowance (currently £550) for activities that support health and wellbeing. Hybrid and remote working – to support your work balance we have introduced hybrid working. Flexible working hours – the opportunity to flex your working hours. Professional Qualification Support – (discretionary) financial support covering the cost of professional qualifications, including institute membership, exams, study materials and completion bonuses. Generous gender-neutral family leave policy – employees with 26 weeks’ continuous service at the Expected Week of Childbirth are eligible to receive 26 weeks full pay. Team fun – warm and social culture with regular get-togethers.
About us: You will work in an environment where we think big: Change and culture are continuously role‑modelled. We create and articulate a compelling and ambitious shared purpose, vision and direction. We pave the way towards success and see failure as learning. You are going to experience that we care & dare: We are empathetic. We know when to lead and know when to let others lead. We attract, grow and coach future leaders. We communicate in a clear & authentic way: We interact with a positive and humble spirit. We solicit feedback, ask and listen, learn and unlearn. At Munich Re, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion foster innovation and resilience and enable us to act braver and better. Embracing the power of DEI is at the core of who we are. We recognise diversity can be multi‑dimensional, intersectional, and complex, so we want to build a diverse workforce that includes a wide range of racial, ethnic, sexual, and gender identities; economic and geographic backgrounds; physical abilities; ages; life, school, and career experiences; and political, religious, and personal beliefs. Additionally, we are committed to building an equitable and inclusive work environment where this diversity is celebrated, valued, and has equitable opportunities to succeed. If you are excited about this role but your experience does not align perfectly with everything outlined, or you don’t meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply anyway. You might just be the candidate we are looking for! All candidates in consideration for any role can request a reasonable adjustment at any point in our recruitment process. You can request an adjustment by speaking to your Talent Acquisition contact.
Application Closing Date - 5pm, 31st May 2026
Head of Transportation (Underwriting) employer: Munich Re
Munich Re Specialty North America is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises innovation and employee development. With access to the extensive resources of one of the world's largest insurance groups, employees benefit from comprehensive health and wellbeing packages, flexible working arrangements, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. The collaborative culture fosters professional growth, making it an ideal place for ambitious individuals seeking meaningful careers in the insurance industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Transportation (Underwriting)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend relevant events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with yours. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Transportation role. Highlight your leadership skills and experience in underwriting, and don’t forget to showcase your passion for the industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our innovative team at Munich Re Specialty North America.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Transportation (Underwriting)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Transportation. Highlight your experience in underwriting and leadership, and don’t forget to mention any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to drive profitable growth.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about the transportation sector and how your skills align with our mission at Munich Re. Be authentic and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Data Skills:Since data governance is key in this role, make sure to highlight your experience with data analysis and decision-making. Share specific examples of how you've used data to optimise processes or improve outcomes in previous roles.
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. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Munich Re
✨Know Your Underwriting Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your underwriting knowledge, especially in the Transportation sector. Understand the key trends and challenges in US Excess and Surplus lines insurance. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to lead the team.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about times when you fostered collaboration or mentored others. Munich Re values leadership, so be ready to discuss how you can inspire and develop your team.
✨Understand the Business Strategy
Familiarise yourself with Munich Re's strategic business plan for the Transportation department. Be prepared to discuss how you would contribute to profitable growth and what innovative ideas you might bring to the table.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the company. Inquire about their approach to data governance or how they plan to expand digital capabilities in underwriting. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.