This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Insurance Officer to join a world-renowned institution. The University of Leeds, consistently ranked among the top 80 universities globally, offers a vibrant and diverse academic environment with a rich history of excellence dating back to 1904. With a significant international presence, welcoming over 39,000 students from 170 countries and employing over 9,000 staff from 100 nationalities, this role places you at the heart of a truly global community.
The successful candidate will play a crucial advisory role, serving as the University's primary specialist on all insurance-related matters. This position demands a proactive and experienced individual, ideally with prior experience within the higher education sector. Key responsibilities will include spearheading the annual insurance renewal process, fostering strong relationships with internal stakeholders, external brokers, and direct insurers, all while adhering to strict timelines and agreed renewal schedules.
Beyond renewals, the role encompasses the comprehensive day-to-day administration of the University's extensive insurance portfolio. This includes maintaining meticulous insurance records, adeptly responding to complex queries, managing claims efficiently, and critically, identifying and communicating potential areas of risk to senior management.
Key Advantages for Candidates:
- Impactful Role: You'll be a vital advisor and specialist, influencing key insurance strategies within a leading global university.
- Professional Growth: The opportunity to manage significant insurance processes and deal with a diverse range of stakeholders provides substantial career development.
- Work-Life Balance: The University is committed to flexible working, with a hybrid working model and the openness to discuss flexible arrangements, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
- Generous Benefits: Enjoy an impressive holiday allowance of 26 days plus approximately 16 bank holidays/university closure days (totaling 42 days annually), a generous pension scheme with a 14.5% employer contribution plus life assurance, and access to excellent health and wellbeing facilities.
- Global Environment: Immerse yourself in a multicultural and dynamic academic setting, contributing to the University's international reputation.
- Visa Opportunities: The role may be suitable for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. For research and academic posts, eligibility under the Global Talent visa will also be considered.
Key Considerations for Candidates:
- Experience Requirement: While prior higher education experience is preferred, extensive experience in insurance management is essential for success in this role.
- Deadline Awareness: Be mindful of the interview schedule, with interviews expected to commence the week commencing 3 November 2025.
- Stakeholder Management: The role requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively liaise with a broad spectrum of internal and external parties.
- Risk Acumen: A strong understanding of risk identification and mitigation strategies is crucial for the proactive management of the University's insurance portfolio.
This position represents a significant career step for a motivated insurance professional seeking to contribute to a prestigious and forward-thinking institution. The combination of a challenging and rewarding role, coupled with the University's commitment to staff wellbeing and development, makes this an attractive prospect.