At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and develop an existing portfolio of SME clients while generating new business.
- Company: Dynamic commercial insurance firm based in Leeds with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Opportunity for career growth, structured support, and a warm client base from day one.
- Other info: Perfect for ambitious individuals ready to grow their career in a thriving market.
- Why this job: Step into a client-facing role with real impact and ownership over your work.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial insurance and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 48000 £ per year.
If you are building a career in commercial insurance and want a role where you can inherit clients, grow your own relationships and develop as an Account Executive without being dropped into a pure cold-start position, this should be a strong option.
This Leeds-based opportunity is aimed at a junior commercial insurance professional who is ready to step up into an SME-focused Account Executive role with an existing book to work with from day one.
The appeal here is straightforward.
You will not be expected to create everything from scratch, and you will not be boxed into an internal servicing role with no route forward.
Instead, you will take ownership of an inherited portfolio of SME clients, learn how to build and retain a book properly, and be given the chance to develop your confidence in front of clients while growing your presence in the local market.
The opportunity
This role is centred around small and medium-sized business clients across a broad range of commercial sectors.
You will be dealing with decision-makers who want clear advice, sensible cover recommendations and a broker who understands how to make insurance feel straightforward rather than overcomplicated.
It is a good fit for someone who already has some grounding in commercial insurance and wants to move closer to the front end of client management and business development.
You might already be in an Account Handler, Development Executive or junior Account Executive role and feel ready for more ownership.
Equally, you may already be in an external role but want a better platform, a warmer starting point and more support around you.
- What the role involves
- You will inherit an existing SME book and take responsibility for maintaining and developing those client relationships.
- That means handling renewals well, identifying opportunities to strengthen cover, supporting retention and looking for sensible cross-sale opportunities where they genuinely add value.
- Alongside the inherited book, you will be encouraged to bring in new SME business and build your own pipeline over time.
- This is not a volume-led role where activity matters more than judgement.
- It is better suited to someone who can build trust, communicate well with business owners and develop into a credible adviser in the Leeds commercial insurance market.
Key responsibilities
- Manage and develop an inherited portfolio of SME commercial insurance clients
- Handle renewals, client reviews and day-to-day relationship management
- Identify opportunities to grow accounts through cross-sale and wider cover discussions
- Generate new business across the Leeds and wider Yorkshire SME market
- Work with broking and servicing colleagues to deliver strong client outcomes
- Build relationships with insurers and understand market appetite across core commercial risks
- Develop your own presence as a trusted adviser to SME clients
- Who this role could suit
- An Account Handler looking to move into a more client-facing, development-focused role
- A junior Account Executive who wants more structure, more support and a book to inherit
- Someone with commercial insurance experience across SME or mid-market clients
- A broker who enjoys dealing with business owners and can explain insurance clearly
- A Leeds or West Yorkshire based insurance professional who wants long-term progression in commercial broking
- Someone ambitious, commercially aware and ready to build a career rather than just move jobs
You do not need to arrive with a large personal book.
What matters more is that you understand commercial insurance, can build rapport with clients and want to grow into a successful SME Account Executive over time.
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SME Sales Executive in Leeds employer: STRIDE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LTD
Stride Resource Management Ltd is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering a dynamic work culture where collaboration and innovation thrive. With competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including private medical insurance, the company fosters an environment that encourages coaching and mentorship, making it an ideal place for experienced professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the commercial underwriting sector.
Contact Details:
STRIDE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LTD Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land SME Sales Executive in Leeds
✨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 STRIDE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LTD. 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 SME Sales Executive in Leeds
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 STRIDE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LTD.
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 STRIDE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LTD'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 STRIDE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LTD
✨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 STRIDE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LTD.
✨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 STRIDE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LTD 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 STRIDE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LTD 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.
