Head of Life Science Underwriting

Head of Life Science Underwriting

Location:

Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, London (flexible UK locations considered)

Full-time | Permanent, Hybrid working

Shape 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‑trading impact.

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 strategy Act as the technical authority for complex underwriting decisions Lead the market conversation with brokers Drive product innovation and commercial performance. This is a highly visible leadership role, with the autonomy to influence direction, without the burden of direct line management.

• 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

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 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

Most importantly, you’ll be someone who:

• Wants to build, grow, and shape something
• Is comfortable influencing without formal authority
• Brings energy, ambition, and a strong market reputation

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 portfolio A seat at the table within Trading Leadership The autonomy to shape strategy and drive outcomes The opportunity to make a visible, lasting impact

• 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

If you’re a Life Science underwriting expert looking for a…