Senior Corporate Account Handler/Team Lead

Howden is a global insurance group with employee ownership at its heart. Together, we have pushed the boundaries of insurance.

The Senior Corporate Account Handler/Team Lead will combine high-level corporate client handling with day-to-day leadership of the Bristol Corporate Handling Team. They will deliver expert support across new business, renewals and mid-term changes, assist with complex and high-value placements, and ensure clients receive suitable cover and strong pricing.

Responsibilities:

• Regularly track renewal and new business activity to support effective planning, forecasting and team resourcing.
• Supervise the prompt, accurate production of client documentation to ensure it meets service standards and client needs.
• Manage market and third-party queries, producing high-quality market documentation that supports effective placement.
• Plan and prioritise personal and team activities to ensure objectives, deadlines and service commitments are achieved.
• Ensure accurate client records and oversee credit control, liaising with support technicians and IBA where required.
• Deliver the Operating Entity's strategy within the team to drive growth, maximise shareholder value and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Achieve agreed financial and performance targets for the team.
• Provide updates and progress reports to senior management as required.
• Support the development and refinement of operational systems and processes.
• Manage assigned projects and contribute to wider business initiatives.
• Supply accurate, timely management information to support decision-making and performance oversight.
• Create innovative, profitable insurance structures and marketing strategies for allocated clients.
• Review documentation and provide technical guidance to coach team members and ensure high-quality decision-making.
• Work with the team to design appropriate broking solutions aligned to client demands and needs.
• Lead the production of Request for Proposal and tender documentation.
• Negotiate with insurers to secure the best balance of coverage, service and price.
• Maintain delegated authority contracts effectively, ensuring compliance and cost efficiency.
• Lead, motivate and develop the team, fostering a high-performance culture that supports individual growth, collaboration and business success.
• Drive employee engagement and wellbeing, promoting an inclusive and supportive working environment in line with company values.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, coaching sessions and development discussions, providing clear feedback and support to help colleagues achieve their full potential.
• Provide day-to-day leadership, managing workloads, resolving issues and supporting the team in delivering exceptional service to clients and stakeholders.
• Identify training and development needs across the team and facilitate opportunities to enhance technical knowledge, broking expertise and professional skills.

Requirements:

• Bring a customer-focused approach, working independently and flexibly to meet tight deadlines.
• Combine analytical thinking with an approachable style to build strong, sustainable relationships with colleagues and clients.
• Show willingness to learn and support junior team members to help develop the wider team.
• Work towards or hold ACII status, which is desirable but not essential.
• Hold or work towards the LLMIT qualification where relevant to the role.
• Bring extensive experience as a broker, account executive or technical expert within the insurance market.
• Operate effectively in a high-pressure, multi-tasking environment.
• Demonstrate detailed knowledge of the insurance market and strong understanding of product lines and associated wordings.
• Apply advanced understanding of regulatory and legal frameworks relevant to client risk profiles.
• Previous people management experience is desirable but not essential; we are equally interested in individuals who have demonstrated leadership potential and are eager to take the next step into a team leadership role.
• Demonstrate a passion for coaching, mentoring and developing others, with the ability to inspire high levels of performance and engagement.
• Show the confidence to lead by example, influence stakeholders and positively contribute to team culture and performance.
• Possess strong interpersonal skills with the ability to support, motivate and build credibility with colleagues at all levels.
• Demonstrate the ability to delegate effectively, manage competing priorities and support the delivery of team objectives.
• Have a collaborative mindset and a genuine desire to help others succeed, fostering an inclusive and supportive team environment.
• Show awareness of data and emerging technologies and how they apply within the insurance environment.
• Communicate and negotiate effectively with clients, colleagues and markets.
• Demonstrate strategic thinking, planning and business development capability.
• Show strong organisational and leadership abilities with high levels of personal integrity.
• Make sound decisions and solve problems effectively.

What we offer:

• A career that you define.
• Our successes have all come from someone brave enough to try something new.
• We support each other in the small everyday moments and the bigger challenges.
• We are determined to make a positive difference at work and beyond.

Reasonable adjustments:

• We're committed to providing reasonable accommodations at Howden to ensure that our positions align well with your needs.
• Besides the usual adjustments such as software, IT, and office setups, we can also accommodate other changes such as flexible hours or hybrid working.