The Role
The Executive Director at Howden Group offers a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic team within one of our Operating Entities in the ever-evolving finance and insurance industry. This role is exceptionally positioned at the forefront of driving business growth while delivering flawless client service and managing high-value accounts. With astrong mix of broking and technical expertise, you will work closely withsenior management to successfully implement business strategies, meet ambitioustargets, and ensure that our operations set world-class standards. This position requires a balance of strategicvision and technical acumen, driving financial performance and contributing tothe development of a high-performing team.
What you'll do
- Lead the execution of the Operating Entity strategy to achieve growth, improve shareholder value, and ensure compliance.
- Meet agreed business targets and motivate the team to achieve objectives.
- Develop and implement effective business plans, contribute to tactical strategies, and provide regular management reports.
- Take the lead in broking complex placements and ensuring positive client experiences through tailored, disciplined solutions.
- Act as a senior technical expert within the team, guiding and mentoring more junior team members.
- Coordinate market negotiations to deliver the best balance of quality, service, and pricing.
- Ensure risk management infrastructure is in place and promote a positive risk culture across the team.
- Collaborate with the Managing Director and Head of Team to identify and implement new business opportunities.
- Ensure the successful implementation of policies, procedures, and compliance requirements within the team.
- Foster and maintain positive relationships with collaborators and customers to uphold excellent service standards and enhance the company's reputation.
Who we're looking for
Technical / Construction Insurance
- Deep technical knowledge across the full construction insurance spectrum: CAR/EAR, DSU (Delay in Start-Up), TPL, Professional Indemnity, Marine Cargo, and Marine Cargo DSU
- Working understanding of PPP / Project Finance structures and how insurance requirements are embedded in concession and finance agreements
- Ability to read, review, and advise on insurance, risk allocation, and indemnity clauses within construction contracts
- Working knowledge of major international standard forms of contract, including FIDIC (Red, Yellow, Silver Books), NEC (NEC3/NEC4), JCT, AIA (US forms), ICE conditions, IChemE (process/EPC), and ENAA
- Experience placing and structuring OCIP/CCIP programmes and complex cross-border insurance towers for large infrastructure projects
- Familiarity with Japanese contractor/developer risk practices and international EPC contracting norms, given the role's remit alongside the Global Head of Japanese Construction
Global Collaboration / Placements
- Ability to work effectively across the wider Global Construction & Infrastructure Assets practice, not just the Japan/JIA team - collaborating with London, US, and other regional hubs on cross-border placements
- Experience leading or contributing to global/multinational placement structures, coordinating multiple territories, fronting arrangements, and local admitted/non-admitted requirements
- Comfortable working as part of a matrixed global team - taking direction and sharing pipeline/market intelligence across geographies.
- Strong relationship-building skills with global practice leaders and specialists to ensure Japan-originated risk is placed optimally in international markets
Commercial / Broking
- Extensive experience in broking, account management, or technical expertise in the insurance sector.
- Proven ability to develop business plans, manage budgets, and deliver successful business results.
- Extensive knowledge of the insurance sector and regulatory environment, with a strong understanding of its commercial competence.
- Advanced knowledge of data, technology, and emerging trends within the insurance market.
- Strong negotiation, communication, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence senior collaborators.
- Strong leadership and organizational skills with a track record of managing teams effectively.
- Ability to navigate complex issues, make decisive decisions, and manage change in a dynamic environment.
- A great teammate with resilience, tenacity, and the ability to collaborate across different teams and departments.
- Maths and English GCSE (or equivalent).
- A level or equivalent (desirable).
- Attainment of the LLMIT (the Lloyd's and Singapore Market Introductory Test) where relevant.
- A degree in commerce or business-related disciplines is desirable, or substantial commercial experience in lieu. ACII qualification or relevant industry certifications preferred.
