Head of Commercial

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Location - Bexhill or Leicester - Hybrid

Welcome to Hastings Direct - From our Group HR Director Pam Angel

We're a digital insurance provider with ambitious plans to become the best and biggest in the UK market. We've made huge investments in our data and tech capabilities over the past few years, along with nurturing our 4Cs culture. We're proud of the journey we're on as a company and know that our continued success will rely on the contribution of our talented colleagues.

We provide insurance for over three million customers, but we know there's even bigger opportunity out there. The fact you're now reading this job advert means we've tempted you to find out more about - we really hope you like what you see, and you'll join us to share in the success of the exciting chapter that lies ahead.

We understand some people may not apply for jobs unless they feel they tick every box. If you're excited about joining us and think you have some of what we're looking for, even if you're not 100% sure we would love to hear from you.

Role overview

Reporting to the Director of Commercial, you will be responsible for setting, managing, and executing the commercial strategy for Motor Claims (Policyholder). You'll define and lead a forward-thinking, data-driven approach that ensures fair and accurate settlements, maximises commercial outcomes, and drives sustainable value. As a key member of the Commercial Claims senior leadership team, you'll lead a high-performing Commercial team and contribute to shaping the broader Claims strategy.

Job details - you'll need to have demonstrable experience in:

Set and lead the strategy for Motor Claims, ensuring we pay the right amount on every claim-no more, no less-while delivering outstanding commercial performance and playing a senior leadership role in shaping and delivering the Motor Claims and Claims function strategy.

Lead forecasting and budgeting activity, setting and managing multi-year plans and 'trading' performance, and regularly reporting progress and updates.

Own the commercial performance of Motor Claims; track key metrics, generate insight, and take agile action to meet objectives and identify and prioritise performance improvement opportunities, collaborating across teams to secure resources and deliver results.

Stay ahead of regulatory, market and competitor developments, assessing potential impacts and proactively shaping strategies, including negotiating bilateral deals where relevant.

Develop business cases for strategic investment in capabilities such as analytics, automation, and business transformation.

Build and maintain strong relationships with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure alignment and delivery of commercial outcomes.

Collaborate closely with operational teams to monitor, manage and enhance the end-to-end Motor Claims journey, including third-party claims.

Inspire, coach, and lead the Commercial team to execute day-to-day objectives while driving long-term strategic goals.

Essential skills/experience:

Significant knowledge of strategy, including a firm understanding of Claims and Risk Management principles and practices.

Strategic thinker - able to set a vision to gain and maintain competitive advantage.

Expertise in Motor Claims (Policyholder) is desirable but not essential.

Proven experience in commercial strategy, ideally within financial services, insurance, consulting, or related sectors.

Strong analytical and performance management skills, with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights and inspiring communication.

Exceptional commercial acumen, comfortable with the mechanics of the P&L and key drivers of claims performance.

Demonstrated success in building, coaching, and inspiring high-performing teams.

Collaborative, hands-on, and delivery-focused approach with a growth mindset.

The interview process update as per role requirements:

Our interview process involves the following steps:

- Recruiter screening call

- Initial interview with hiring leader

- 2nd interview with hiring leader's leader including case study

As a Disability Confident employer, we're committed to ensuring our recruitment processes are fully inclusive. If you're applying for a role with us, you'll have fair access to support and adjustments throughout your recruitment journey. We also welcome applications through the Disability Confident Scheme (DCS). For more information, please visit our inclusive business page on our careers website.

Regrettably, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.

Benefits: In addition to a competitive salary and £6k car allowance, you will also receive

- Flexible working - we champion a flexible hybrid working approach - please speak to your recruiter to discuss in more detail.

- Competitive bonus scheme - all colleagues are eligible for our annual 4Cs performance bonus.

- Physical wellbeing - as a Band 5 colleague, Hastings pays for private medical insurance (PMI). This gives you flexibility and convenience to see a specialist or consultant and decide when and where you will be seen.

- Financial wellbeing - as well as providing you with 4x your salary with our life assurance cover, income protection at no extra cost, and matched pension contributions up to 10%, we offer discounts, cashback, free mortgage advice, and financial wellbeing support.

- Mental wellbeing programme - we have the Thrive mental health app, our colleague assistance programme available 24/7, mental health first aiders, support groups, and a dedicated team.

- More benefits include 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, optional buy/sell of leave, healthcare cashback plans, dental plans, discounts, schemes, onsite facilities, social events, and more.

Join us and experience a different way of doing things. We focus on getting it right for our colleagues, customers, company, and community. Our 4Cs principles are simple: create the right culture, provide the right tools, and deliver good outcomes for everyone.

At Hastings Direct, we're committed to an inclusive environment. If you require adjustments during recruitment, please let us know. Our recruitment team is here to support you.

Job posting end date:

Hastings Direct is a fast-growing, digitally focused general insurance provider serving over 2.8 million customers in the UK, with over 3,400 colleagues. Our vision is to be the best and biggest digital insurer in the market.

We differentiate through our attitude and business approach, focusing on our colleagues, customers, company, and community. Our environment is dynamic, flexible, fun, and ever-changing. Join us to make a real difference, influence our company, benefit communities, and enjoy your work.