Head of Life Science Underwriting

Head of Life Science UnderwritingLocation: Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, London (flexible UK locations considered)Full-time | Permanent, Hybrid workingShape the future of Life Science underwriting!This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a high-growth, high-profit Life Science portfolio and play a defining role in its next phase.At Markel, Life Science is a key strategic priority. With a strong foundation already in place and significant investment behind it, we’re now looking for a market-leading specialist to accelerate growth, strengthen our proposition, and elevate our position in the UK broker market.This isn’t your typical “Head of”, it’s a unique hybrid role blending technical underwriting leadership with front-line trading impact.The Opportunity:You’ll take responsibility for shaping and scaling a Life Science portfolio currently at ~8m GWP, with a clear mandate to deliver sustained, profitable growth (25%+ YoY).Working closely with Trading and Technical leadership, you’ll:Define and implement the growth strategyAct as the technical authority for complex underwriting decisionsLead the market conversation with brokersDrive product innovation and commercial performanceThis is a highly visible leadership role, with the autonomy to influence direction, without the burden of direct line management.What You’ll Be Doing:Drive Growth & Market Presence:Own and deliver ambitious growth targets across new business and renewalsBuild and position a market-leading Life Science propositionWork closely with brokers to uncover and convert opportunitiesBe a visible, credible presence in the marketLead from the Front (Trading + Technical):Combine deep technical underwriting expertise with commercial decision-makingTake calculated risks to unlock growthProvide technical guidance on complex and specialist risksAct as the highest authority on underwriting appetite and referralsShape the Product & Proposition:Lead ongoing product development and innovationOptimise wordings, pricing, and coveragePartner with distribution and actuarial teams to maximise performanceEnsure the proposition remains competitive and relevantInfluence & Develop Capability:Coach and upskill underwriters across new business and renewalsAct as a technical and commercial leader without direct reportsDrive a stronger, more daring underwriting outlook across the teamWhat We’re Looking For:We’re looking for a genuine Life Science specialist who brings both technical credibility and commercial drive.You’ll likely have:Life Science underwriting experience (essential)Strong technical expertise across complex casualty risksA track record of delivering profitable growthConfidence operating in broker-facing, market-facing rolesThe ability to balance detail with decision-making and paceMost importantly, you’ll be someone who:Wants to build, grow, and shape somethingIs comfortable influencing without formal authorityBrings energy, ambition, and a strong market reputationWhy Join Markel?At Markel, we do things differently.We’re a global, Fortune 500 business but we’ve built our success on a people-first culture, strong relationships, and a willingness to take on risks others can’t.In this role, you’ll get:Real ownership of a strategic, growing portfolioA seat at the table within Trading LeadershipThe autonomy to shape strategy and drive outcomesThe opportunity to make a visible, lasting impactWhat’s In It for You:Great salary + excellent annual bonus & benefits packageHybrid working and flexibilityPrivate medical, life assurance, and income protection25 days holiday + buy/sell optionsOngoing development and career progressionReady to Make Your Mark?If you’re a Life Science underwriting expert looking for a role where you can combine technical excellence with real commercial influence, we’d love to hear from you.Apply now and help us build something exceptional.Markel celebrates the value of a diverse workforce that brings experience and expertise from a wide variety of backgrounds and life circumstances. Whatever your background, if you feel you meet the requirements of this role then we want to hear from you. We are also happy to consider candidates who are looking for flexible working patterns.We are an equal-opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with all reasonable accommodations to be able to participate in the job application or interview process and to perform essential job functions if successful. Please contact us via email at rec@markel.com or call us at 0161 507 5827 to request any accommodations that may be needed. This includes any alternative formats of any documents or information on how to apply offline.#LI-PC1#LI-Hybrid #PlayYourPartUKSummaryLocation: Leeds - UK; London - UK; Manchester - UK; Birmingham - UKType: Full time