Avencia Talent Solutions
Head of Life Science Underwriting
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Head of Life Science Underwriting
Location: Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, London (flexible UK locations considered)
Full-time | Permanent, Hybrid working
Are you an established Life Science Underwriter ready to shape the future of a growing, specialist portfolio?
We're partnering with a leading insurer to appoint a Head of Life Science Underwriting. This is a rare opportunity to lead and grow a well-established proposition, driving strategy, underwriting excellence, and profitable growth across the UK broker market.
The Opportunity
As Head of Life Science Underwriting, you'll be responsible for developing the long-term strategy for the portfolio, strengthening market presence, and building a high-performing underwriting function. Working closely with Distribution, Actuarial, and Commercial Leadership teams, you'll play a pivotal role in delivering sustainable growth while maintaining technical underwriting excellence.
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Key Responsibilities
- Lead the growth and profitability of the UK Life Science portfolio.
- Develop and execute the underwriting strategy and market proposition.
- Build strong relationships with brokers and become a recognised market leader.
- Drive product development and innovation to meet evolving customer needs.
- Own underwriting appetite, pricing strategy, and portfolio performance.
- Act as the technical referral point for complex risks.
- Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing underwriting team.
- Work collaboratively across underwriting, distribution, actuarial, and governance functions.
About You
- Significant underwriting experience within the UK Life Science insurance market.
- A proven track record of delivering profitable portfolio growth.
- Strong broker relationships and market credibility.
- Experience developing underwriting strategy, products, and pricing.
- Excellent leadership skills with the ability to inspire and develop teams.
- A commercial mindset combined with strong technical underwriting expertise.
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Why Apply?
This is an opportunity to join an ambitious insurer investing in its specialist capabilities. You'll have the autonomy to shape the future direction of the portfolio while working with an experienced leadership team committed to growth, innovation, and technical excellence.
If you're interested in finding out more, or would like a confidential conversation, please get in touch directly.
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