At a Glance
- Tasks: Identify and secure new business opportunities in commercial and agricultural sectors.
- Company: Join NFU Mutual, a leading rural insurer with over 110 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive training, competitive salary, and a friendly team culture.
- Other info: Clear pathway to agency leadership with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the community while building a rewarding career.
- Qualifications: Ideal for recent graduates or junior professionals with a passion for agriculture.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
Region: North East
Location: Vale of York, Leeds & Harrogate
Job reference: ANEE02134
Closing date: 2nd December 2026
The Role
Commercial/Agricultural Executive – Potential Progression Opportunity toward NFU Mutual Agency Leadership
Salary: Dependant on experience
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Location: York, Thirsk & Boston Spa
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8.30am – 5:30 pm (40 hours per week)
Introduction to NFU Mutual
NFU Mutual offers a wide range of products and services, including general insurance, life, pensions and investments and has been providing quality insurance for its customers for over 110 years. We carefully balance delivering excellent service to our customers whilst ensuring the business is run effectively. As a mutual, supporting our customers and paying their claims comes first. We are a top ten UK insurance company and the UK’s largest rural insurer, with an agency network of over 250 local offices.
About the Vale of York, Leeds & Harrogate Agency
As a local agency of NFU Mutual we deliver a first-class service, and sell their product range across our region, to customers old and new, who are at the core of everything we do. We are a business where honesty, integrity, and trust are at the heart of our values. We champion the personal approach to customer service that NFU Mutual are famous for. An exciting opportunity has now arisen within the Vale of York Agency.
The Role: Commercial/Agricultural Executive
This is an exciting new position within our expanding agency, reflecting our commitment to growth and our evolving commercial client base. As Commercial/Agricultural Executive, you’ll focus on identifying, developing, and securing new business opportunities across key commercial and agricultural sectors alongside servicing current holdings and building on existing relationships. You’ll play a pivotal role in delivering our sales strategy, driving sustainable growth, and building relationships that stand the test of time.
Key Responsibilities
- Servicing Existing Policies: Completing annual policy reviews and mid-term adjustments for existing clients identifying any gaps in cover and building stronger relationships.
- New Business Development: Proactively identify, prospect, and secure new clients across commercial and rural markets, achieving agreed sales targets.
- Sector Growth: Focus on key sectors such as:
- Agriculture and Rural Enterprises
- Motor Trade
- Manufacturing, Building & Allied Trades
- Property Owners and Rural Estates
- Retail, Wholesale & Fleet Operations
- Sales Strategy: Develop and execute targeted sales plans using market research, sector insight, and local knowledge.
- Client Relationships: Build long-term, trust-based relationships by providing tailored insurance and risk solutions.
- Cross-Selling: Introduce clients to the wider NFU Mutual proposition, including:
- Financial Services (Protection, Pensions & Investments)
- Risk Management Services
- Health & Safety Consultancy
- Compliance: Operate within the regulatory and compliance framework, maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.
- Collaboration: Work closely with the wider agency and NFU Mutual colleagues to deliver seamless customer experiences.
- Continuous Development: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of products, regulations, and market trends to support your professional growth.
About You
We’re looking for someone who combines commercial drive with a genuine understanding of rural and agricultural business communities. Ideally suited for a recent graduate or junior insurance professional looking for development within an established agency.
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Proven success in commercial insurance sales or agricultural/commercial account management
- Experience managing mid-to-high premium clients
- Excellent communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills
- Strong commercial awareness and understanding of client needs
- Goal-driven, organised, and customer-focused
- Committed to compliance and delivering excellent customer outcomes
If you have a background in agriculture, farm management, or rural business, and are looking to apply your expertise in a commercial insurance environment — this role offers a clear pathway to becoming a part of the agency leadership team.
Benefits
- Comprehensive training and professional development
- Support toward CII qualifications
- Friendly, supportive team culture
- 21 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Free on-site parking at York, Thirsk & Boston Spa
- Company pension scheme, death in service and health benefit scheme
- Regular team socials and events
This role offers an exceptional opportunity for a forward-thinking agricultural or commercial professional to build a rewarding career with NFU Mutual through a local self-employed agency— combining business growth, customer care, and with the potential to progress into an Agency leadership position.
Commercial/Agricultural Executive Vale of York, Leeds & Harrogate employer: NFU Mutual
NFU Mutual is an excellent employer that values collaboration and innovation, offering a hybrid work model that allows for 80% homeworking. With a strong focus on employee development and a supportive work culture, team members are encouraged to grow their skills in data analysis and coding while making a real impact on customer outcomes. The Stratford-upon-Avon office provides a vibrant environment where employees can connect with colleagues across various departments, enhancing both professional and personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial/Agricultural Executive Vale of York, Leeds & Harrogate
✨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 NFU Mutual). 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 NFU Mutual. 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 Commercial/Agricultural Executive Vale of York, Leeds & Harrogate
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 NFU Mutual.
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don't just send a generic CV! Focus on tailoring it specifically for the insurance role at NFU Mutual. 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 NFU Mutual
✨Know Your Numbers: Insurance Fundamentals
Brush up on your understanding of key insurance concepts, like underwriting principles and risk assessment. Expect the interviewer at NFU Mutual 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 NFU Mutual, 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 NFU Mutual'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.
