Head of Claims – UK & Ireland

About the role

Our client, an innovative specialty insurer and reinsurer, is seeking a senior leader to head the claims function across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Reporting to the Group Head of Claims, you will provide technical oversight of high‑value, complex claims and act as a key liaison to the UK and Irish Boards.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the UK & Ireland claims teams, ensuring consistent delivery of high‑quality service.
• Provide technical oversight on specialty and reinsurance claims, particularly those exceeding £10 million.
• Chair the Large Loss Committee and deliver strategic recommendations on major losses.
• Collaborate closely with underwriting, actuarial, finance, risk and executive leadership.
• Manage third‑party claims providers, overseeing governance and service standards.
• Prepare and present Board papers for both UK and Irish Boards.
• Drive continuous improvement in claims operations, reporting and governance.

Required profile

• 10+ years of experience in specialty insurance, reinsurance or a similarly complex claims environment.
• Proven senior leadership experience with regular Board interaction.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication abilities.
• Ability to move between detailed technical analysis and executive‑level discussions.
• Experience overseeing outsourced claims providers is advantageous.
• Legal background or ACII qualification is a plus, but not essential.

Required skills

What we offer

• High‑profile leadership role with direct Board exposure.
• Opportunity to shape and grow a claims function within a collaborative, flat‑structured organisation.
• Hybrid working model (four days in office, one remote).
• Exposure to complex specialty and reinsurance risks.