Descartes Underwriting offers a new generation of parametric insurance against climate, cyber and other emerging risks. Utilizing state-of-the-art risk modelling techniques and advanced technology, we collaborate with brokers around the world to protect corporate and public sector clients against natural catastrophes and weather risks.
ABOUT DESCARTES UNDERWRITING
Descartes was born out of the conviction that the ever-increasing complexity of risks faced by corporations, governments and vulnerable communities calls for a renewed approach in insurance. Our team brings together industry veterans from the most renowned institutions (AXA, SCOR, Swiss Re, Marsh, Aon, ...) and scientists on top of their field to bring underwriting excellence. After 5 years of existence, Descartes has secured a leading position in parametric insurance for weather and climate-related risks utilizing machine learning, real-time monitoring from satellite imagery & IoT. After a successful Series B raise of $120M USD, we launched Descartes Insurance, a 'full stack' insurer licensed to underwrite risk by the French regulator ACPR. With a growing corporate client base (400+ and counting), our diverse team is headquartered in Paris and operates out of our 17 global offices in North America, Europe, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan. Descartes is trusted by a panel of A-rated (re)insurers to carry out its activities.
ABOUT YOUR ROLE
In close collaboration with the Commercial Director UK & Ireland, you will support business development activities:
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
- Support the expansion of Descartes’ corporate broker network in the UK market, building strong relationships to generate new business opportunities;
- Build and maintain relationships with a panel of brokers to support our growth agenda;
- Develop and promote the value proposition of Descartes’ parametric products as a pro-active element within brokers' strategic toolkit;
- Understand and identify UK market needs for parametric offerings in order to generate meaningful business opportunities;
- Represent Descartes externally at Broker, Client and Industry meetings & events; including occasional public speaking engagements;
- Develop and adapt sales & marketing strategies (incl. digital) for the UK market;
- Support UK colleagues with broker facing material such as pitch decks, quote documents and marketing insights.
TEAM WORK
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Paris-based Underwriting & BD teams to optimize business opportunities & meet ratio objectives;
- Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to ensure smooth underwriting and claims settlement processes;
- Monitor insurance industry, and parametric specific, developments in the UK market, effectively communicating insights internally;
- Travel: this position will entail travel activities, including overnight stays.
ABOUT YOU
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
- Minimum 6 years in (re)insurance, or related industries
- Candidates with experience from brokerage firm or underwriting company preferred.
SKILLS
- Fluency in English (written and verbal communication) – required;
- Good command of one additional language (e.g. Spanish) – valued but not essential;
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills;
- Strong analytical capabilities and financial acumen.
MINDSET
- Results oriented, high energy, and self-motivated with the ability to work in a dynamic and multi-cultural environment;
- Excellent team player with an entrepreneurial mindset and value of diversity;
- Motivated to help improve businesses’ and communities’ resilience to climate change.
WHY JOIN DESCARTES UNDERWRITING?
- Opportunity to work and learn with teams from the most prestigious schools and research labs in the world, allowing you to progress towards technical excellence;
- Commitment from Descartes to its staff of continued learning and development (think annual seminars, training etc.);
- Work in a collaborative & professional environment;
- Be part of a dynamic international team, passionate about diversity;
- Join a company with a true purpose – help us help our clients be more resilient towards climate risks;
- A competitive salary, bonus and benefits.
At Descartes Underwriting, we cherish value of diversity whatever it may be. We are committed to fighting against all forms of discrimination and for equal opportunities. We foster an inclusive work environment that respects all differences.
With equal skills, all our positions are open to people with disabilities.
