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-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 strategy Act as the technical authority for complex underwriting decisions Lead the market conversation with brokers Drive 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 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 marketLead 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 referralsShape 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 relevantInfluence & 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 What 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 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 paceMost 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 Why 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 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 What's In It for You: 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 Ready 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.