At NFU Mutual, people often say it feels different. Different from the big financial institutions, where decisions can feel distant. Different from insurance environments that focus on numbers more than people. Different because we have a close partnership with our NFU Mutual Agency Network across the UK. And when you listen to the people from the Commercial Underwriting teams across our business talk about what it’s really like to work here, these differences become really clear.
Real autonomy, backed by trust
At its core, commercial underwriting at NFU Mutual feels different because it’s designed to be. For many underwriters, one of the biggest surprises on joining NFU Mutual is the freedom they’re given to make decisions. “The organisation trusts you,” says Sarah, Senior Regional Technician. “If you’ve got a solid rationale for a decision, you’ll be supported.”
This autonomy paired with accountability, is what makes underwriting at NFU Mutual so rewarding. Our unique tied-Agent model, with over 200 agencies across our UK-wide Agency Network, enables underwriters to build strong, collaborative relationships with Agents and deliver tailored solutions to our customers.
Hayley, Mid Corporate and Estates Underwriter, adds: “Every case is different. You might start with one idea, but after speaking with an Agent, or senior technician, you may decide to make changes. You’re encouraged to think it through, to use your judgment.” Jack, Senior Development Underwriter, sums it up, “If you’ve done the work and built your reasoning, you can challenge anyone in the company and across our Agency Network. That’s empowering.”
A culture built on respect
The sense of mutual respect runs deep - between colleagues, managers and underwriters, and with the Agency Network. “You feel valued here,” says Jasmine, SME and Mid-Market Underwriter. “You’re not just a number. Your opinion matters.”
After spending time in the broader market, where things felt more rigid and less adaptable, Andrew, Regional Senior Technician, was drawn back to NFU Mutual by its distinctive culture. “We’ve got a unique culture here. It’s less corporate than other companies. We’re encouraged to be creative and make independent decisions, supported by a broad risk appetite,” he explains. This empowering environment gives underwriters the freedom to shape solutions and grow professionally - something that’s often limited by stricter structures elsewhere. At NFU Mutual, flexibility and personal development aren’t just encouraged; they’re built into the way we work.
That trust and support in decision-making runs deep across the underwriting teams. Even as a 280-strong UK-wide Commercial Underwriting function, we're a team that's defined by respect, openness and collaboration. “There’s a real sense of teamwork,” says Jasmine. “If you need to talk through an idea or a complex case, there’s always someone willing to listen.” Amy, Commercial and Fleet Underwriter, agrees: “Even when we’re working from home, the support is always there.
Continuous learning and progression without barriers
The trust across the business is underpinned by significant investment in training and development. Jack highlights the structured support available as people progress: “You own your progress, but the business makes sure you have the tools and opportunities to grow.”
For many, that focus on continual growth is what makes NFU Mutual different. “I was promoted within six months of joining,” says Jack. “We always advertise roles internally first to give people the opportunity to progress, but there’s also a mentoring programme, plus leadership apprenticeships and development plans available to you.”
When Laurie, Regional Senior Commercial Package Underwriter, decided to restart her professional qualifications, the support was immediate. “One of the heads of Learning and Development booked time to go through everything with me and helped to set it all up. That’s a very different approach to where I’ve worked before.”
Andrew agrees that our approach is very different. “There is so much room for growth and creative licence at NFU Mutual. The company is open to new business and encourages experienced underwriters to bring fresh perspectives, which can help shape strategy.”
Supporting the whole person
NFU Mutual’s care for its people doesn’t stop at career development. There’s also a strong focus on wellbeing and inclusion. Sarah highlights the practical support available, “From health and wellbeing plans to family friendly policies and a flexible holiday trading scheme, the approach here recognises that personal wellbeing and professional success are connected.”
“They’ve been fantastic in supporting me with a disability,” says Shona, Commercial Package Underwriter. “I've been shown nothing but empathy and understanding.” For Jasmine, hybrid working made the role possible: “I couldn’t have done this job if I had to commute every day. Homeworking opened up the opportunity for me.” As Hayley puts it, “If you’re happy at work, you’re happy at home - and NFU Mutual really understands that.”
A place to grow - and stay
One of the strongest signs that NFU Mutual is truly different comes from the positive feedback we receive from both employees and customers. As Iggy, a Mid Corporate and Estates Underwriter, points out, “Our employee and customer retention rates are among the highest in the industry.” Because we operate as a mutual, we’re not driven by shareholder demands - this allows us to foster a unique culture and approach to business. Our priority is always on putting our customers first. Iggy notes, “People choose to stay because it’s a great place to work, and customers remain loyal due to the quality of the service we provide.”
Jack highlights the importance of balance: “It’s a dynamic and engaging environment, but there’s genuine respect and clear boundaries. You’re trusted to do your job, treated as a professional, and encouraged to keep developing.”
Laurie describes how the autonomy and support keeps her engaged in her role: “It’s such a big company, but so close-knit at the same time. It’s an environment where underwriters can bring both their expertise and curiosity to the table.”
At NFU Mutual, being different is about more than just how we run out business - it’s about how we invest in our people. Add a generous pension, hybrid working options, and a truly collaborative atmosphere and it’s easy to see why so many underwriters build lasting careers here. When you foster a culture of trust and opportunity, great outcomes follow - for underwriters, for customers, and for the future of our business.
Interested in joining our Commercial Underwriting team?
If you’re interested in joining our Commercial Underwriting team, then take a look at our current vacancies or register for job alerts by email. We look forward to hearing from you.