Executive Director - Head of International Cyber

About Howden

Howden is a global insurance group distinguished by its employee-owned structure. With a workforce of 23,000 professionals across 56 countries, we excel in aiding clients to navigate and succeed in a fast-changing world. Our strength lies in our collaborative international team driven by an inclusive culture and a people-first approach that fuels our growth and client service quality.

Why Join Howden

We have a longstanding entrepreneurial spirit and empower talented individuals to make significant impacts while building fulfilling careers. Our culture fosters work-life balance, career growth, sustainability efforts, and volunteering initiatives, creating an environment where employees thrive and remain loyal.

Role Overview

The Executive Director role at Howden Group leads the Cyber and Technology practice within the finance and insurance sector. This position is critical in driving business expansion, delivering exceptional client service, and managing high-value accounts. It calls for a strategic mindset combined with technical proficiency to oversee financial results and cultivate a high-performance team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the International Cyber team by developing and executing the global cyber insurance wholesale strategy.
• Guide market-facing teams and manage complex cyber insurance placements across international territories.
• Drive achievement of business growth targets and enhance shareholder value while ensuring compliance.
• Create and implement business plans, support tactical initiatives, and provide comprehensive management reporting.
• Broker sophisticated cyber insurance deals and assure exceptional client experiences through customized solutions.
• Serve as a senior technical mentor and expert within the team.
• Oversee market negotiations to optimize quality, service, and pricing.
• Maintain risk management frameworks and nurture a positive risk culture.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to identify and capitalize on new business opportunities.
• Ensure team adherence to policy, procedure, and compliance standards.
• Foster strong relationships with partners and clients to uphold high service standards and enhance company reputation.

Candidate Profile

• Substantial experience in cyber insurance broking, account management, or technical roles.
• Demonstrated success in business planning, budget management, and delivering positive outcomes.
• Deep understanding of the insurance sector, including commercial and regulatory aspects.
• Advanced knowledge of data, technology, and emerging industry trends.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills with the ability to influence at senior levels.
• Proven leadership and organizational abilities with experience managing teams effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills and capacity to lead change in a dynamic environment.
• Collaborative spirit combined with resilience and tenacity.
• Educational qualifications include Maths and English GCSE or equivalent; A-level or similar preferred.
• LLMIT accreditation (Lloyd's and London Market Introductory Test) as applicable.
• Degree in commerce or business-related field desirable; alternatively, significant commercial experience.
• Preferred industry certifications include ACII or equivalent.

Our Commitment

We support a career defined by your interests, promoting personal development, community involvement, and innovative solutions to societal challenges. We prioritize employee well-being, understanding the link between personal satisfaction and professional success.

Diversity and Inclusion

Howden embraces diversity and values individuals who align with our core values of innovation, mutual support, and making a positive impact. We promote equality, fairness, and respect across all facets of our operations, regardless of personal characteristics.

Reasonable Adjustments

We are dedicated to inclusivity and will provide reasonable accommodations to meet individual needs, including flexible working arrangements and office adaptations where possible.

Sustainability

We are committed to sustainable practices that benefit our people, clients, and the environment, embedding these principles into all aspects of our governance and operations.