NZ Underwriting Graduate Program 2027

Program Overview

The QBE Graduate Program 2027 offers a comprehensive 18-month full-time opportunity based in Auckland, New Zealand, designed for graduates who want to develop expertise in insurance underwriting. Graduates will undertake three distinct 6-month rotations across different teams, gaining hands-on experience in various business insurance sectors. This program is celebrated for its structure and has been recognized as one of Australia's leading small-scale graduate initiatives.

Underwriting Focus

This program emphasizes the development of technical underwriting capabilities, particularly in the complex field of business insurance. You will assess unique risks presented by companies of differing sizes and industries before extending insurance coverage. Success in this role depends on your analytical skills and your ability to engage effectively with a broad range of stakeholders.

Graduate Learning and Development

• Experience working within three distinct teams through planned rotations, gaining diverse perspectives on the business.
• Participate in structured classroom learning combined with practical application.
• Access tailored digital learning pathways developed specifically for graduates in underwriting.
• Engage in informal learning through interactions within the graduate cohort.
• Unlimited access to a wide array of digital courses and certification opportunities.
• Receive mentoring and support from graduate program leaders, rotation leaders, and technical mentors.
• Opportunities for networking and public speaking to develop professional skills.

Company and Benefits

QBE is an international insurer with over 13,000 employees across 26 countries, committed to innovation and delivering customer-focused insurance solutions with a personal approach. Benefits available to employees include a hybrid working model combining office and remote work, comprehensive wellbeing support such as holistic coaching, counselling, and financial/legal advice, plus ongoing career development support including financial help for further education.

Awards and Recognition

• 2025 Excellence in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award for the Respect@QBE program.
• 2023 Most Inclusive Workplace by the Australian HR Institute.
• Ranked in the Top 10 small-sized graduate employers by the Australian Association of Graduate Employers in 2026.

Eligibility Criteria

• Graduated between the end of 2024 and the end of 2026 with a tertiary qualification.
• Eligible to work in New Zealand for the duration of the program and afterwards in a permanent role.
• Ability to start full-time in February 2027.
• Submission of a resume and academic transcript; cover letter optional.
• Open to candidates from any educational background, though disciplines such as actuarial science, legal studies, economics, business, and engineering are particularly relevant.

Additional Information

Successful applicants will be required to complete standard checks including work rights verification, police, and employment screening. The program includes two trips to Sydney, Australia, for induction and development activities within the first year. QBE is committed to workplace diversity and inclusion and encourages applicants requiring assistance to reach out to the graduate recruitment team. Applications close on 18 August 2026.