Join to apply for the Senior Underwriter - London role at Descartes Underwriting
About Descartes Underwriting
Descartes was born out of the conviction that the increasing complexity of risks faced by corporations, governments, and vulnerable communities calls for a renewed approach in insurance. Our team combines industry veterans from renowned institutions (AXA, SCOR, Swiss Re, Marsh, Aon, ...) and top scientists to bring underwriting excellence. After 6 years, Descartes has established a leading position in parametric insurance for weather and climate risks, utilizing machine learning, satellite imagery, and IoT. Following a successful Series B raise of $120M USD, we launched Descartes Insurance, a licensed full-stack insurer in France, with a growing client base of over 400 companies, operating globally from Paris and 18 offices worldwide. We are trusted by A-rated (re)insurers for our activities.
About Your Role
We are seeking a Senior Underwriter (Parametric Insurance) to join our Underwriting team based in London. Reporting to the Underwriting Manager & Director of Descartes UK, you will contribute to developing and deploying climate risk models for pricing, underwriting, and monitoring weather-related parametric policies for corporate and public clients. Your main responsibilities include:
1. Collaborating with the business team and brokers to understand client needs and risk transfer challenges for new and renewed business;
2. Conducting analyses for product design and coverage structuring to meet client expectations;
3. Enhancing pricing models to assess risks, underwrite policies, and monitor portfolio performance;
4. Preparing insurance proposals and underwriting documentation for global clients;
5. Leading discussions and projects within the London market with brokers and partners;
6. Collaborating across divisions to support portfolio growth (R&D, Legal, Operations, Risk Management);
7. Providing technical and business guidance on modeling and strategy, including oversight of Data Scientists’ work.
About You
Experience & Qualifications
* Degree in mathematics, statistics, data science, physics, or related field from a leading institution;
* Minimum of 4 years post-graduation experience in data science or related areas;
* Experience in leading small teams and managing projects is a plus;
* Prior experience in structuring, pricing, or underwriting parametric climate risk insurance is a plus.
Skills
* Proficiency in Python (pandas, scikit-learn);
* Strong background in statistics and probability;
* Attention to detail, autonomy, and quality focus;
* Fluency in English; proficiency in additional languages (Chinese, French, etc.) is a plus.
Mindset
* Interest in climate risk modeling and insurance;
* Team spirit and ability to work under pressure;
* Problem-solving mindset, creativity, and meticulousness;
* Desire to learn, take responsibility, and work in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.
Why Join Descartes Underwriting?
* Collaborate with top research and industry teams to develop technical expertise;
* Commitment to continuous learning and development;
* Work in a collaborative, international, and diverse environment;
* Contribute to climate resilience efforts;
* Competitive salary, bonus, and benefits.
At Descartes, we value diversity and are committed to equal opportunities and an inclusive work environment. Positions are open to people with disabilities.
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