Reed is recruiting on behalf of a well-established Bristol based insurer, located just a short walk from Temple Meads Station, making this role ideal for commuters from Cardiff, Cheltenham, Gloucester, Swindon, Exeter, and the wider Southwest.
We are looking to speak with an experienced Trading Underwriter who enjoys owning accounts, building strong broker and partner relationships, and underwriting profitable business within agreed authority levels. This role is suited to someone already working in underwriting or commercial insurance who is ready to take responsibility for key accounts and complex risks.
The Role
As a Trading Underwriter, you will take ownership of a portfolio of business partner accounts, underwriting scheme and standalone risks while balancing commercial opportunity with sound risk management. You’ll act as a technical point of contact for partners, support profitable growth, and contribute to wider underwriting strategy and improvement initiatives.
This is a hands-on, relationship-led underwriting role, offering real exposure to renewals, negotiations, performance reviews, and stakeholder interaction.
Key Responsibilities
*Underwrite and manage scheme and standalone policies, including renewals, MTAs, and new business
*Analyse data, declarations, and performance to assess profitability and risk exposure
*Negotiate rates, premiums, exclusions, and terms within delegated authority
*Manage and develop a portfolio of key accounts and business partners
*Produce renewal and performance packs, reviews, and supporting documentation
*Act as a technical referral point for complex underwriting queries
*Attend broker and partner meetings, supporting relationship development
*Ensure all underwriting decisions comply with governance frameworks, authority levels, and audit requirements
*Maintain accurate records and diarise contractual obligations
*Support junior colleagues through knowledge sharing and referrals
*Contribute to process improvements and department-wide projects
About You
You’ll be an experienced and commercially minded underwriter who is confident handling conversations with brokers and internal stakeholders alike.
Essential:
*Proven experience in underwriting within general or commercial insurance
*Strong technical underwriting ability and commercial judgement
*Confidence negotiating terms and managing accounts within authority
*Excellent communication and relationship management skills
*Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage deadlines and priorities
*Competent with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
Desirable:
*Experience within schemes or delegated authority environments
*CII qualification (or working towards)
*Previous exposure to broker or business partner-facing underwriting roles
Benefits
*26 days holiday, plus the option to buy up to 5 additional days
*Enhanced company pension scheme
*Group Income Protection and Legal Protection
*Health Cash Plan
*Salary sacrifice benefits (e.g. Cycle to Work)
*Comprehensive wellbeing programme
*Access to exclusive retail discounts and gym memberships
*Hybrid working and a central Bristol location
Why Apply?
This is a strong opportunity for an underwriter who wants:
*Real ownership of accounts
*Exposure to complex, commercial underwriting
*A business with long-term stability and clear underwriting governance
*Excellent commuting links and a supportive, collaborative team culture