Senior Development Underwriter - Mid-Market Retail Insurance - North West in Manchester

Senior Development Underwriter - Mid-Market Retail Insurance - North West in Manchester

Manchester Full-Time 60000 - 70089 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Zurich 56 Company Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Drive strategic growth and lead the underwriting of complex mid-market retail insurance risks.
  • Company: Join Zurich, a leading insurer with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working options, and extensive employee benefits.
  • Other info: Be part of a supportive community focused on wellbeing and continuous improvement.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic role that shapes the future of insurance.
  • Qualifications: Significant experience in underwriting and strong business development skills required.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70089 £ per year.

  • Senior Development Underwriter – Mid-Market Retail Insurance - North West
  • Working hours: This role is available on a part‑time, job‑share or full‑time basis
  • Location: North West based (Greater Manchester, Liverpool, Cheshire, North Lancs)

The opportunity

Are you an accomplished underwriter with a passion for market growth and strategic leadership?

Do you thrive on influencing the market, unlocking new opportunities, and shaping portfolios?

At Zurich, we’re excited to announce a newly created Senior Development Underwriter position—offering the opportunity to champion our new business strategy and play a leading role in strengthening our position across the mid‑market retail insurance sector.

As Senior Development Underwriter, you will drive Zurich’s growth agenda across our mid‑market retail portfolios.

This is a new and highly visible role, designed to accelerate business development and deliver strategic impact.

You’ll combine deep technical expertise with commercial acumen, leading the origination, negotiation, and underwriting of complex risks.

Your ability to develop relationships with brokers, clients, and market influencers will be key to growing Zurich’s business and reputation.

Many of our employees work flexibly in a variety of different ways, including part‑time, flexible hours, job share, an element of working from home or compressed hours.

This is because we want the best people for our roles, and we recognise that sometimes those people aren’t available full‑time.

Please talk to us at the interview about the flexibility you may need.

What will you be doing?

  • Driving strategic growth: Lead the identification, development, and conversion of high‑value mid‑market retail insurance opportunities, positioning Zurich as an underwriter of choice.
  • Market leadership: Build and leverage senior relationships with brokers, clients, and industry stakeholders to secure new business and enhance Zurich’s presence in target markets.
  • Expert underwriting: Take ownership of complex, high‑value risks—providing expert analysis, bespoke solutions, and profitable decision‑making.
  • Insight‑led strategy: Monitor, interpret, and respond to market trends, competitor activity, and regulatory change—informing the development of market‑leading propositions.
  • Mentoring and collaboration: Coach and support regional teams, share specialist knowledge, and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement to drive commercial success.

What are we looking for?

  • Significant experience in mid‑market retail insurance underwriting, with a strong track record of business development and portfolio growth.
  • Advanced technical and analytical skills—confident in assessing and structuring complex risks.
  • Proven ability to engage, influence, and negotiate with senior brokers, clients, and internal stakeholders.
  • A strategic, commercially minded approach, with a focus on innovation and business results.
  • Experience mentoring others or leading team development is highly desirable.

As an inclusive employer we want to ensure that all candidates feel comfortable and are able to perform at their best during the interview.

You’ll have the opportunity to let us know of any reasonable adjustment or practical support needed when you apply.

What will you get in return?

Everyone’s different.

That’s why at Zurich, we offer a wide range of employee benefits so our people can choose what fits them and their life.

Our benefits provide real flexibility so our people can make considered choices and tailor their benefits throughout the year.

Our benefits include 12% defined non‑contributory pension scheme, annual company bonus, private medical insurance and the option to buy up to an additional 20 days or sell some of your holiday.

  • The financials
  • 12% defined non‑contributory pension scheme.
  • Annual company bonus.
  • Income Protection.
  • Life cover – four times your salary.
  • Time away
  • 28 days holiday a year plus bank holidays.
  • You can also request to swap UK bank holidays for days off that have cultural or religious significance to you.
  • The option to buy up to an additional 20 days or sell some of your holiday.
  • Three days paid volunteering.
  • Up to 16 weeks’ full pay for maternity, paternity and adoption leave.
  • Your health is important to us
  • Access to Private medical insurance.
  • Virtual GP appointments.
  • Discounted gym membership.
  • Free flu jab.
  • Access to a wealth of support from our wellbeing partners.
  • We're making a difference
  • Creating a brighter, more sustainable future underpins all that we do here in Zurich. We were the first insurer to sign the ‘UN Business Ambition for 1.5˚C’ pledge.
  • Our charitable arm, Zurich Community Trust, has awarded grants and volunteered time to deserving causes in the UK valued at over £90 million.
  • Our Culture

At Zurich, our sense of community is strong and we’re particularly passionate about diversity and inclusion, which we’ve won numerous awards for.

We want our people to bring the whole of themselves to work and ensure everybody is made to feel welcome, regardless of their background, beliefs or culture.

We want our employees to reflect the diversity of our customers, and so are committed to treating all of our applicants fairly and with respect, irrespective of their actual or assumed background, disability or any other protected characteristic.

We’ve an environment that places a real importance on our people’s wellbeing from a physical, mental, social and financial perspective.

We work with our wellbeing partners and industry experts to provide the best advice and access to a wealth of lifestyle support.

We’re also committed to continuous improvement, and we offer access to a comprehensive range of training and development opportunities.

We’re passionate about supporting employees to help others by getting involved in volunteering, charitable and community activity.

Our charitable arm, Zurich Community Trust, is one of the longest‑established corporate trusts in the UK.

In that time, we’ve awarded grants and volunteered time to deserving causes in the UK valued at over £90 million.

We’dlove it if you couldsubmityour application online. If yourequirean alternative method of applying, please send an email to recruitment@uk. zurich. com

So make a difference. Be challenged. Be inspired. Be supported, Love what you do. Work for us. #LI‑Hybrid

With over 55,000 employees in more than 170 countries , you’ll feel the support of being part of a strong and stable company who are a long‑standing player in the insurance industry.

We’ve made a promise to each other and every employee; to focus on sustainable impact, to care about each other’s wellbeing, to use our diverse expertise to be curious and optimistic and to develop the skills needed for our future.

If you're interested in working in a dynamic and challenging environment for a company that recognises and rewards your creativity, initiatives and contributions - then Zurich could be just the place for you.

Be part of something great.

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Senior Development Underwriter - Mid-Market Retail Insurance - North West in Manchester employer: Zurich 56 Company Ltd

Zurich Legacy Solutions (ZLS) is an exceptional employer that prioritises flexibility and inclusivity, offering various working arrangements to accommodate diverse employee needs. With a strong commitment to professional growth, ZLS provides robust benefits including a generous pension scheme, annual bonuses, and extensive parental leave, all within a supportive culture that values diversity and community engagement. Employees are encouraged to thrive in a dynamic environment where their contributions are recognised and respected, making ZLS a rewarding place to advance your career in finance.

Zurich 56 Company Ltd

Contact Details:

Zurich 56 Company Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Development Underwriter - Mid-Market Retail Insurance - North West in Manchester

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 Zurich 56 Company Ltd). 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 Zurich 56 Company Ltd. 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 Senior Development Underwriter - Mid-Market Retail Insurance - North West in Manchester

Mid-Market Retail Insurance Underwriting
Business Development
Portfolio Growth
Technical and Analytical Skills
Risk Assessment
Negotiation Skills
Relationship Building

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 Zurich 56 Company Ltd.

Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don't just send a generic CV! Focus on tailoring it specifically for the insurance role at Zurich 56 Company Ltd. 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 Zurich 56 Company Ltd

Know Your Numbers: Insurance Fundamentals

Brush up on your understanding of key insurance concepts, like underwriting principles and risk assessment. Expect the interviewer at Zurich 56 Company Ltd 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 Zurich 56 Company Ltd, 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 Zurich 56 Company Ltd'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.