Head of Life Science Underwriting

Markel

Head of Life Science Underwriting at Markel shaping and scaling a Life Science portfolio with sustained growth. Blending technical leadership and commercial impact in the UK broker market.

Posted 6/9/2026full-timeLeeds • 🇬🇧 United KingdomLeadWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Drive Growth & Market Presence: Own and deliver ambitious growth targets across new business and renewals
Build and position a market-leading Life Science proposition
Work closely with brokers to uncover and convert opportunities
Be a visible, credible presence in the market
Lead from the Front (Trading + Technical): Combine deep technical underwriting expertise with commercial decision-making
Take calculated risks to unlock growth
Provide technical guidance on complex and specialist risks
Act as the highest authority on underwriting appetite and referrals
Shape the Product & Proposition: Lead ongoing product development and innovation
Optimise wordings, pricing, and coverage
Partner with distribution and actuarial teams to maximise performance
Ensure the proposition remains competitive and relevant
Influence & Develop Capability: Coach and upskill underwriters across new business and renewals
Act as a technical and commercial leader without direct reports
Drive a stronger, more daring underwriting outlook across the team

Requirements

What you’ll need

Life Science underwriting experience (essential)
Strong technical expertise across complex casualty risks
A track record of delivering profitable growth
Confidence operating in broker-facing, market-facing roles
The ability to balance detail with decision-making and pace

Benefits

Comp & perks

Great salary + excellent annual bonus & benefits package
Hybrid working and flexibility
Private medical, life assurance, and income protection
25 days holiday + buy/sell options
Ongoing development and career progression

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

life science underwritingtechnical underwriting expertisecomplex casualty risksproduct developmentpricing optimizationcoverage optimizationrisk assessmentcommercial decision-makinggrowth strategyperformance maximization

Soft Skills

leadershipcoachinginfluencingdecision-makingcommunicationmarket presencecredibilityrisk-takingcollaborationadaptability