Credit & Political Risk Graduate Programme 2027

Who are we?

Howden is a global insurance group with employee ownership at its heart. Together, we have pushed the boundaries of insurance. We are united by a shared passion and no-limits mindset, and our strength lies in our ability to collaborate as a powerful international team comprised of 24,000 employees spanning over 56 countries.

People join Howden for many different reasons, but they stay for the same one: our culture. It’s what sets us apart, and the reason our employees have been turning down headhunters for years. Whatever your priorities – work / life balance, career progression, sustainability, volunteering – you’ll find like-minded people driving change at Howden.

Specialty Credit & Political Risk Graduate Programme

Please read before submitting: You may only apply to one graduate programme for our 2027 intake. Submitting duplicate applications will result in them not being considered.

Location: London

Start date: September 2027

Salary: £40,000

Working structure: Hybrid

Credit & Political Risk Graduate Programme

Help Shape Global Trade, Finance and Investment

Looking for a graduate role where you'll combine analytical thinking, commercial awareness and relationship-building whilst being at the centre of geopolitical events? Join Howden's Credit & Political Risk team and learn how we help organisations navigate the risks that come with lending, trading and investing around the world.

From supporting major infrastructure projects to protecting international trade transactions, we work with financial institutions, corporates, funds and public entities across a wide range of industries. As part of our global team, you'll gain exposure to complex risks, innovative solutions and some of the most interesting transactions in the market.

This is a fast-paced, international environment where you'll develop both technical knowledge and commercial skills while learning how transactions are negotiated, structured and executed.

This is a permanent role supported by a structured development programme, designed to accelerate your technical expertise, professional confidence and long-term career growth.

What you’ll be doing?

You'll begin with a structured induction before joining the Credit & Political Risk team, where you'll work alongside experienced specialists on live client projects.

During the programme, you'll:

• Learn how Credit & Political Risk Insurance supports businesses, financial institutions and investors operating around the world.

• Support the placement of insurance solutions that help clients manage financial and political risks.

• Research countries, industries, companies and market trends to support client activity and business development.

• Assist in preparing client presentations, reports and insurance submissions.

• Build relationships with clients, insurers and internal teams across the business.

Who are we looking for?

No insurance experience is needed; we’ll teach you everything you need to know!

You'll be:

• A recent graduate, or in your final year of university study from any degree background.

• Interested in global markets, international business and current affairs, with a curiosity about how organisations manage financial and political risks.

• A strong communicator who enjoys building relationships with a range of people.

• Analytical and naturally curious, and willing to ask questions.

• Comfortable working with numbers and data to support decision-making and problem-solving.

• Organised and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

• Resilient and able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment where priorities can change quickly.

• Someone who takes ownership, shows initiative and enjoys learning new concepts and industries.

• A collaborative team player who enjoys working across various teams.

To be eligible for our programme, you must have the full and unrestricted right to work in the UK.

Application process

Our application process is designed to help you show your potential, not to test what you already know!

• Online application form – no CV required: We believe you're more than just a document, so we won’t ask you to submit a CV. Please upload a blank document on the application form.

• Online gamified assessment: We’ve created games that will help us understand your natural strengths and how you approach different situations. There are no right or wrong answers. You can complete this stage on your phone or laptop, whichever suits you best!

• Pre-recorded video interview: You will record your answers to a few questions using your phone or laptop, giving you the chance to tell us more about yourself in your own time in a relaxed setting.

• Assessment centre: Our final stage is an in-person assessment centre at one of our offices. You'll take part in some fun group activities and meet our team in a relaxed setting. This day is all about getting to know you better and for you to see what it's like to be part of Howden and experience our culture. We'll cover all your travel costs for this day, because where you are now, shouldn’t hold back your future!

Why should you apply?

At Howden, people are at the heart of everything we do. As an employee-owned business, we believe success is built through collaboration, learning and supporting one another. You'll join a permanent role from day one and take part in our structured 18-month development programme, designed to accelerate your technical, commercial and professional growth.

You'll also benefit from:

• A starting salary of £40,000 and a generous pension scheme.

• Opportunity to complete fully funded professional qualifications, such as the CII or CFA, to support your long-term career development.

• Structured learning and development through our 18-month graduate development programme.

• 25 days' annual leave, plus bank holidays and an additional day off at Christmas.

• Access to discounted personal health policies, wellbeing support and a range of employee benefits and insurance products.

• 2 days allocated to take part in volunteering schemes.

Ready to apply?

Follow our TikTok pages: @earlycareersjo and @millieinsurancecareers, and explore our Connectr hub to discover more about Howden, our culture, and the insurance industry. You'll find resources to help you prepare for our recruitment process and understand which career path could be the best fit for you.

Please read before submitting: You may only apply to one graduate programme for our 2027 intake. Submitting duplicate applications will result in additional applications not being considered.

What do we offer in return?

A career that you define. At Howden, we value diversity – there is no one Howden type. Instead, we’re looking for individuals who share the same values as us:

• Our successes have all come from someone brave enough to try something new
• We support each other in the small everyday moments and the bigger challenges
• We are determined to make a positive difference at work and beyond

Reasonable adjustments

We're committed to providing reasonable accommodations at Howden to ensure that our positions align well with your needs. Besides the usual adjustments such as software, IT, and office setups, we can also accommodate other changes such as flexible hours* or hybrid working*.

If you're excited by this role but have some doubts about whether it’s the right fit for you, send us your application – if your profile fits the role’s criteria, we will be in touch to assist in helping to get you set up with any reasonable adjustments you may require.

*Not all positions can accommodate changes to working hours or locations. Reach out to your Recruitment Partner if you want to know more.

Permanent