Executive Director, Construction

The Role

The Executive Director at Howden Group offers a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic team within one of our Operating Entities in the ever-evolving finance and insurance industry. This role is exceptionally positioned at the forefront of driving business growth while delivering flawless client service and managing high-value accounts. With astrong mix of broking and technical expertise, you will work closely withsenior management to successfully implement business strategies, meet ambitioustargets, and ensure that our operations set world-class standards. This position requires a balance of strategicvision and technical acumen, driving financial performance and contributing tothe development of a high-performing team.

What you'll do

• Lead the execution of the Operating Entity strategy to achieve growth, improve shareholder value, and ensure compliance.
• Meet agreed business targets and motivate the team to achieve objectives.
• Develop and implement effective business plans, contribute to tactical strategies, and provide regular management reports.
• Take the lead in broking complex placements and ensuring positive client experiences through tailored, disciplined solutions.
• Act as a senior technical expert within the team, guiding and mentoring more junior team members.
• Coordinate market negotiations to deliver the best balance of quality, service, and pricing.
• Ensure risk management infrastructure is in place and promote a positive risk culture across the team.
• Collaborate with the Managing Director and Head of Team to identify and implement new business opportunities.
• Ensure the successful implementation of policies, procedures, and compliance requirements within the team.
• Foster and maintain positive relationships with collaborators and customers to uphold excellent service standards and enhance the company's reputation.

Who we're looking for

Technical / Construction Insurance

• Deep technical knowledge across the full construction insurance spectrum: CAR/EAR, DSU (Delay in Start-Up), TPL, Professional Indemnity, Marine Cargo, and Marine Cargo DSU
• Working understanding of PPP / Project Finance structures and how insurance requirements are embedded in concession and finance agreements
• Ability to read, review, and advise on insurance, risk allocation, and indemnity clauses within construction contracts
• Working knowledge of major international standard forms of contract, including FIDIC (Red, Yellow, Silver Books), NEC (NEC3/NEC4), JCT, AIA (US forms), ICE conditions, IChemE (process/EPC), and ENAA
• Experience placing and structuring OCIP/CCIP programmes and complex cross-border insurance towers for large infrastructure projects
• Familiarity with Japanese contractor/developer risk practices and international EPC contracting norms, given the role's remit alongside the Global Head of Japanese Construction

Global Collaboration / Placements

• Ability to work effectively across the wider Global Construction & Infrastructure Assets practice, not just the Japan/JIA team — collaborating with London, US, and other regional hubs on cross-border placements
• Experience leading or contributing to global/multinational placement structures, coordinating multiple territories, fronting arrangements, and local admitted/non-admitted requirements
• Comfortable working as part of a matrixed global team — taking direction and sharing pipeline/market intelligence across geographies.
• Strong relationship-building skills with global practice leaders and specialists to ensure Japan-originated risk is placed optimally in international markets

Commercial / Broking

• Extensive experience in broking, account management, or technical expertise in the insurance sector.
• Proven ability to develop business plans, manage budgets, and deliver successful business results.
• Extensive knowledge of the insurance sector and regulatory environment, with a strong understanding of its commercial competence.
• Advanced knowledge of data, technology, and emerging trends within the insurance market.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence senior collaborators.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills with a track record of managing teams effectively.
• Ability to navigate complex issues, make decisive decisions, and manage change in a dynamic environment.
• A great teammate with resilience, tenacity, and the ability to collaborate across different teams and departments.
• Maths and English GCSE (or equivalent).
• A level or equivalent (desirable).
• Attainment of the LLMIT (the Lloyd's and Singapore Market Introductory Test) where relevant.
• A degree in commerce or business-related disciplines is desirable, or substantial commercial experience in lieu. ACII qualification or relevant industry certifications preferred.