Job Description

ABOUT DESCARTES UNDERWRITING

Join Descartes and contribute to our mission: Building Resilience in a World at Risk.

Descartes is a corporate insurance group for worldwide companies and institutions. Descartes was born from a conviction that the growing complexity of corporate and climate risks demands a new approach to insurance. At the forefront of AI and Data analysis, Descartes utilises cutting-edge technology combined with a new generation of data sources, to model, assess and manage risks.

Since 2019, Descartes has secured a leading position in parametric (re)insurance combining scientific & technological expertise with a new approach. Parametric insurance, also known as index-based insurance, indemnifies clients within days based on pre-defined payout structures when a specific triggering event occurs, the payout process is both fast and transparent. The company has been financed with over $141M by investors including Highland Europe, BlackFin, Serena, Cathay, Eurazeo and Battery Ventures.

Our highly diverse and specialized team of 250+ people includes the largest modelling team in the industry featuring tech and modeling innovators, scientists in physics and climatology, as well as insurance veterans and underwriters. With a global footprint and strong US presence, Descartes serves a diverse portfolio of clients in more than 60 countries, with 20+ offices spread across Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin and North America.

Find out more on https://descartesunderwriting.com/careers

ABOUT YOUR ROLE

The AVP, Business Development will drive commercial development and strategic partnerships in Asia, promoting innovative risk transfer solutions to corporations, public sector organizations, and intermediaries. The role is focused on client acquisition, relationship management, market intelligence, and the development of tailored parametric solutions for emerging risks.

Key Responsibilities:

• Proactively expand Descartes’ corporate broker network in the Asia market, building strong relationships to generate new opportunities & secure renewals;

• Develop and promote the value proposition of Descartes’ parametric products as a pro-active element within brokers' strategic toolkit;

• Lead market growth for parametric insurance products throughout Asia, targeting industries including agriculture, energy, retail, and public sector clients;

• Develop, maintain, and leverage relationships with insurance brokers and direct insurance companies to maximize distribution and client engagement;

• Identify new client prospects, engage in consultative sales, and foster strong relationships across key channels;

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Paris-based Underwriting, Data Science & Business Development teams to optimize business opportunities & meet ratio objectives;

• Analyze market trends, regulations, and competitor activities to inform commercial strategy;

• Manage complex sales cycles and support contract negotiation;

• Represent Descartes externally at Broker, Client and Industry meetings & events; including occasional public speaking engagements at small and large industry events.

ABOUT YOU

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, insurance, engineering, or related discipline;

• At least 5 years of business development experience in insurance, risk management, financial services, with complex B2B sales exposure.

SKILLS

• Strong understanding of the region insurance landscape; parametric or specialty insurance experience is a plus;

• Knowledge of broking principles, client reports/ proposals and renewals;

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills; English proficiency required and Mandarin is a plus;

• Familiarity with climate risk, is advantageous.

MINDSET

• Eager to learn more about the insurance industry;

• Results oriented, high energy, with the ability to work in a dynamic and multi-cultural environment;

• Excellent team player with an entrepreneurial mindset and value of diversity;

• Strong desire to learn and commitment to the organization’s mission.

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 the 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.