Head of Marine - Europe 80-100%

Global Specialty is a strategic growth business within Zurich, bringing together deep technical expertise, disciplined underwriting and global capabilities to help customers manage complex and evolving risks. With specialist teams across Marine, Energy, Financial Lines, Construction, Cyber, Credit & Surety, Accident & Health and other specialty lines, Global Specialty combines market-leading underwriting, claims and risk engineering expertise to deliver tailored solutions for clients around the world.

Our Marine Europe business plays a vital role in supporting international trade and commerce by providing specialist insurance solutions across a broad range of marine risks. Working closely with customers, brokers and colleagues across the region, the team offers deep technical expertise in marine underwriting and portfolio management, helping clients navigate an increasingly complex risk landscape while driving profitable and sustainable growth.

We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated individual to join Zurich’s Global Specialty Underwriting team as Head of Marine – Europe. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the underwriting strategy and performance of Zurich's Marine portfolio across Europe, driving profitable growth, portfolio optimisation and underwriting excellence whilst ensuring consistent execution across the region.

What you will do

• Set and oversee execution of the Marine underwriting strategy across Europe, ensuring alignment with business objectives and delivery of target portfolio performance.
• Take accountability for portfolio performance through the use of data, analytics, performance metrics and market insights, identifying opportunities and risks and implementing changes where required.
• Monitor and analyse market trends, customer needs, distribution dynamics and regulatory developments relevant to the marine sector and adjust strategy accordingly.
• Hold ultimate accountability for financial results across the European Marine portfolio.
• Collaborate closely with Claims, Risk Engineering, Distribution and other internal stakeholders to achieve business objectives and deliver strong customer outcomes.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key clients, brokers and market partners to support profitable portfolio growth, and engage with reinsurers, regulators and rating agencies as required.
• Participate in regulatory, compliance and governance-related activities relevant to the line of business.
• Ensure the development of appropriate underwriting capabilities across Marine and foster a proactive, inclusive approach to talent development, succession planning and recruitment.
• Act as a subject matter expert, supporting the development and delivery of line of business underwriting training across the region.
• Drive continuous improvement of underwriting tools, processes and operational efficiency across the Marine line of business.
• Act as a referral point for underwriting decisions requiring higher levels of empowerment and support underwriters on the largest and most complex individual deals.
• Lead and contribute to underwriting reviews, identifying performance trends and ensuring agreed actions are implemented.

What you will bring

• Demonstrated expertise in underwriting marine risks and managing marine underwriting portfolios, with a proven track record of delivering profitable growth.
• Deep understanding of the European marine market, underwriting landscape and regulatory environment.
• Strong portfolio management capabilities with experience leveraging data-driven insights to inform strategic decisions.
• Proven ability to develop and implement underwriting strategies across multiple markets.
• Excellent leadership skills, with the ability to lead, motivate and foster a culture of trust, accountability and high performance across geographically dispersed teams.
• Strong technical underwriting expertise and credibility within the market.
• Exceptional influencing, negotiation and stakeholder management skills, including experience engaging with senior executives, brokers and external partners.
• Highly effective communicator with the ability to build strong internal and external relationships.
• Strong commercial acumen and customer-centric mindset.
• Excellent English language skills.
   

You belong here. 

Imagine working in one of the world’s most sustainable workplaces. At Quai Zurich Campus, you’ll enjoy an environment designed to help you thrive, with benefits that support your well-being and impact, and opportunities to perform at your best, surrounded by top talent and supportive colleagues.  
You’ll have access to healthy food options, fitness facilities, and bright, collaborative spaces that spark creativity. Located in the heart of Zurich on the shores of Lake Zurich, the campus offers excellent public transportation links, making your commute simple. 
Grow with us through access to learning resources, on-the-job development, and continuous empowerment and support. Be part of a team that is creating a brighter future together. 

About Us 

Zurich is a leading multi-line insurer, serving over 82 million customers in more than 200 countries and territories with more than 65,000 employees.
For over 150 years, Zurich has been transforming insurance – offering not just protection, but also prevention services that promote well-being and climate resilience.
Guided by our purpose to ‘create a brighter future together,’ we aim to be one of the most responsible and impactful businesses in the world. 
We look forward to receiving your online application today!

Information for recruitment agencies

Zurich does not accept any applications from recruitment agencies for this position. We refuse any responsibility for unsolicited applications, as well as any associated fees. 

Why Zurich

At Zurich, we like to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. We take an optimistic approach by focusing on the positives and constantly asking What can go right? 

We are an equal opportunity employer who knows that each employee is unique - that’s what makes our team so great! 
Join us as we constantly explore new ways to protect our customers and the planet.
 

• Location(s):  CH - Zürich 
• Remote working: Hybrid
• Schedule: Full Time
• Recruiter name: Grace Cunningham