Job Description

Head of Commercial
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 #lifeatHD - 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 whilst 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 - is 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
Our interview process involves the below: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 - what this means to you is if you're applying for a job 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 on the DCS, 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 pay for you to receive private medical Insurance (also known as PMI). This gives you flexibility and convenience to see a specialist or consultant and allows you to 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 are proud to provide you with an award winning package which includes - discounts, cashback, free independent mortgage advice and free access to financial wellbeing support
Mental wellbeing programme - we have the thrive mental health app, our colleague assistance programme available 24/7, our own in-house mental health first aiders, support groups and a dedicated team to make sure we are covering your needs
There's more! - 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, with the option to buy or sell one of your weeks, access to our health care cash back plans, dental plans, discounted health assessments, Cycle to work and tech schemes, discounted and free onsite facilities, social events throughout the year and much more ....
Join us and you'll find a different way of doing things. We call it the 4Cs. We focus on getting it right for our colleagues, customers, company and community. As one of our colleagues, you'll be helping to drive our growth, so in return, we'll give you all the support, training and development you need. Our 4Cs principles are simple: we believe by creating the right culture for our colleagues and giving them the right tools to do their job, we'll deliver good outcomes for every customer, helping us to grow the company profitably and sustainably and allowing us to invest in the communities we serve.
At Hastings Direct, we're committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, we encourage you to be open with us. Our recruitment team is here to provide the support you need to ensure a fair and accessible experience for all.
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