Account Executive - Step Up/Succession Planning Opportunuity

Here is your opportunity to move into an Account Executive role. Many good insurance professionals could be successful Account Executives - Account Handlers, Account Managers, Development Executives, Underwriters, Claims Executives - people who already understand commercial insurance and how to work with clients. They’re often just waiting for someone to give them the opportunity and the step into an Account Executive role can be surprisingly difficult to find. Many firms still expect people to arrive fully formed with a client book already behind them. At the same time, the broking market is facing a simple reality with many experienced Account Executives retiring over the next few years. Which means firms need to start developing the next generation of client-facing brokers rather than simply trying to hire them. Some businesses are talking about it. This firm already is already doing it.

The opportunity

One of the UK’s most respected insurance broking groups is hiring a number of future Account Executives across its UK offices. These roles are designed for insurance professionals who already understand commercial insurance and client relationships but want the opportunity to step into an Account Executive position with proper backing. And importantly… You won’t be starting from scratch. You’ll inherit an existing portfolio worth £200k+ income, with a structured handover from experienced Executives who have looked after these clients for years. Alongside that comes mentoring, development and the time to grow into the role properly.

What the role looks like

This is primarily a client relationship role - looking after existing clients, understanding their businesses and becoming a trusted adviser. Growth matters, but the expectations are realistic. New business typically forms around 25% of the role. Annual new business targets are usually £40k–£60k income. Targets vary depending on the size of your inherited book. You won’t be expected to create every opportunity yourself. The firm invests heavily in lead generation. Opportunities range from renewal date prospects where some work is required, through to qualified meetings already arranged with decision makers. Behind the scenes you’ll also have experienced account handlers, brokers and claims specialists supporting your clients.

Responsibilities

• Manage and develop an inherited portfolio of commercial insurance clients
• Build trusted relationships with business owners and decision makers
• Advise clients on their insurance programmes and risk strategy
• Identify opportunities to improve cover and add value
• Grow your portfolio through referrals, networking and qualified leads
• Meet prospective clients introduced through internal lead generation
• Work closely with broking, claims and account handling colleagues

Who this could suit

The firm is open minded about background. What matters most is your ability to build relationships, communicate well with clients and understand commercial insurance risks. You might currently be:

• An Account Handler or Account Manager working closely with an AE and ready for more responsibility
• A Sales or Development Executive who wins new business but hands clients over afterwards
• A Commercial Underwriter or Claims professional who enjoys working with brokers and clients and wants to move closer to the advisory side of the industry
• An existing Account Executive looking for a more supportive and less aggressive environment

Above all, they are looking for smart, personable insurance professionals who take pride in looking after clients properly. This isn’t a high-pressure sales environment. It’s a broking role for people who enjoy building long-term client relationships and doing the job well.

The business

This is one of the UK’s largest and most respected insurance broking groups, built on traditional independent broking values rather than private equity pressure. Executives are trusted to build long-term client relationships and grow their portfolios sustainably. The business now has offices across the UK’s major broking centres and supports flexible working, although time with colleagues, client meetings, training and team collaboration remain an important part of how they work.

Package

• Salary up to £60,000 depending on experience
• Bonus paid as a percentage of growth in your book
• Realistic bonus £5k–£10k in the early years, increasing as your portfolio grows
• Car allowance or business mileage
• Pension and wider benefits package
• Inherited client portfolio worth £200k+ income
• Dedicated account handling, broking and claims support
• Structured mentoring and development

Locations

Candidates can be based near to one of the firms regional offices, within commuting distance to London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Leicester, Newcastle, Bristol or Edinburgh for work, meetings, training and coaching purposes. Remote applicants will also be considered.

The next step

If you’re building a career in commercial insurance and looking for the opportunity to step into an Account Executive role properly, this is exactly that type of role. You’ll inherit clients, receive proper support and have the time to develop into the position. No unrealistic targets. No sink-or-swim expectations. Just the chance to build a successful client book with the backing of a well-established broking business. If you’d like to explore the role in confidence, apply or get in touch for a conversation.