Deputy Head of Legal and Insurance in Basildon

The role

Position: Deputy Head of Legal and Insurance

Contract type: Full Time – Permanent

Reporting to: Head of Legal (Maritime) and Insurance

Location: London – Office based 5 days per week

Overview of role

This position involves deputising for the Head of Legal (Maritime) and Insurance.

Managing complex and high-value marine claims.

The successful candidate will be a key leader in ensuring operational excellence, managing a dedicated team, and fostering strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Key responsibilities and primary deliverables

• Claims Management and Resolution: Lead the handling of high-volume and complex P&I (Protection & Indemnity), Marine Liability, or Hull claims, ensuring efficient and cost-effective resolution in line with company ethos.
• Leadership & Team Management: Deputise for the Head of Legal (Maritime) and Insurance in their absence, providing leadership and mentorship to the claims team. This includes supporting recruitment, training, and development of junior team members.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate strong relationships with different teams within Zodiac and also the various insurers such as P&I Clubs and various law firms, surveyors etc.
• Strategy & Process Improvement: Support the implementation of the department\’s strategy, contributing to the continuous improvement of claims handling processes and procedures.
• Reporting & Compliance: Produce detailed reports on claims trends and performance metrics for management.
• Risk Mitigation: Assist in identifying and advising on risk issues arising from claims experience, working with other divisions on risk management and loss prevention initiatives.

Skills profile

Experience

• Significant experience (typically 10-15 years) in marine insurance claims, preferably within a P&I Club or shipping company, with demonstrated leadership and experience managing complex claims.

Qualifications

• A law degree or equivalent qualification.

Key Skills

• In-depth knowledge of maritime law, P&I rules, charter parties, and dispute resolution.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Strong organisational, time management, and problem-solving abilities.
• Adaptability, resilience, and IT proficiency, including Microsoft Office and claims management systems.

Regrettably due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted