SME Team Leader

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated SME Team Leader to oversee an SME insurance team and support the continued growth of the department.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in commercial insurance, excellent leadership skills, and a proven ability to manage both people and client relationships. This role combines team management responsibilities with the handling of a small portfolio of SME clients.

What you will be doing

Lead, motivate, and develop a team of SME Account Handlers. Conduct regular one-to-one meetings, performance reviews, and coaching sessions. Monitor individual and team performance against agreed KPIs and service standards. Ensure compliance with FCA regulations, company procedures, and insurer requirements. Carry out file audits and quality checks to maintain high standards of customer service and regulatory compliance. Produce and analyse management information (MI) reports to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement. Support recruitment, onboarding, and training of new team members. Manage holiday planning, workload allocation, and resource management across the team. Handle escalated client queries and support the team with complex insurance placements. Maintain and develop a small portfolio of SME clients, ensuring retention and growth opportunities are maximised. Work closely with insurers to negotiate competitive terms and achieve the best outcomes for clients. Identify cross-selling and new business opportunities within the existing client base. Contribute to departmental projects and the overall growth strategy of the business.

Who we are looking for

Experience within commercial or SME insurance. Previous team leadership, supervisory, or mentoring experience preferred. Strong knowledge of commercial insurance products and markets. Excellent communication and relationship-building skills. Good understanding of FCA requirements and insurance regulation. Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities. Experience using insurance broking systems and Microsoft Office applications. Cert CII qualified or working towards professional qualifications would be advantageous.