At Devonshire Underwriting, analysts play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of underwriting processes, maintaining strong client relationships, and keeping pace with the evolving Transactional Risk insurance market. We sat down with our current team of three analysts – Daniel Kirton, Henry Denegri, and Elinor Jackson – to gain insight into their day-to-day responsibilities, the trends shaping the industry, and how they see their roles evolving as Devonshire grows.
We’re passionate about nurturing the next generation of talent, providing a platform for careers to flourish in the transactional liability insurance space. This trio of talented analysts represent the future of our industry, and here’s what they had to say:
Can you describe your day-to-day responsibilities as an analyst at Devonshire Underwriting? Do each of your roles differ from one another?
Elinor Jackson (EJ): A big part of our role is handling new business submissions from brokers. This starts with processing Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) and ensuring all relevant details are recorded in our system. We analyse submissions to determine if they fit within our appetite, review documentation, and assist in pricing. The goal is to make the quoting process as seamless as possible.
Henry and I now also work on excess layer deals, which allows us to see the underwriting process from start to finish. Beyond that, we provide general support to the wider team, ensuring things run efficiently. It’s been rewarding to see how our processes have improved and how much smoother our daily workflows have become.
Daniel Kirton (DK): Since I recently joined, my focus has been on learning from Elinor and Henry, as well as the senior underwriters. The training here has been excellent, and it’s been exciting to dive into underwriting and understand how deals come together. Right now, I’m primarily assisting in making things as efficient as possible for the team while also getting involved in new business initiatives.
Henry Denegri (HD): Our roles have evolved significantly as Devonshire has grown. We are the first point of contact for many processes, from administrative tasks to reviewing new business submissions. Having Dan on board has given us more capacity to focus on excess layer deals and strategic initiatives.
As a start-up, we’ve also had the opportunity to shape how the business operates – from creating standardised ways of working to improving responses to brokers. Eventually, automation and AI will streamline some of these processes, but for now, it’s been rewarding to build an efficient system from the ground up.
To what extent do you interact with clients, and what is your role in servicing them?
EJ: One of the things the founding partners emphasised was the importance of building relationships. We’re encouraged to engage with brokers, put faces to names, and establish trust. It’s made the job more enjoyable, especially as a first graduate role.
HD: We’ve also built strong connections with analysts at other firms, which has been invaluable for knowledge-sharing. Having peers at a similar level makes the industry feel more accessible, and events like team outings help foster those connections – a day out axe throwing with some of our broking partners was definitely a highlight!
DK: Coming in fresh, I was surprised by the breadth and complexity of the deals we work on. The more I interact with clients and see the variety of transactions, the more I appreciate the depth of expertise required in M&A underwriting.
How would you describe the current state of the M&A transactions market, and what trends are you seeing?
HD: The M&A market is known for its cycles, with quiet and busy periods, but we’ve found that quiet periods are increasingly rare. Last August, which traditionally sees a slowdown, was incredibly busy, setting us up for a strong Q4. This year has followed a similar pattern.
In Warranty & Indemnity (W&I) insurance, pricing has been low, but we see some tentative signs that certain types of deal are attracting slightly higher rates. Differentiation is becoming key – underwriting approaches, policy wordings, and deeper risk insights are all playing a role in how firms compete and we know how important it is to offer an excellent service and product from the start to finish of a deal.
One recent deal involved a particular coverage request on an emerging markets deal. We worked hard to accommodate that need, reflecting our bespoke approach to underwriting. That level of responsiveness is something brokers appreciate and recognize as a differentiator for Devonshire.
EJ: I would echo that entirely. It has been impressive to see the precedent set by the Founding Partners at Devonshire Underwriting, and we all pride ourselves on going the extra mile for brokers, ensuring that every deal is approached with a high level of flexibility, expertise, and attention to detail. Our underwriters take the time to truly understand the nuances of each transaction, offering a bespoke service that isn’t always available elsewhere in the market. This commitment to quality doesn’t go unnoticed – we regularly receive positive feedback from brokers who appreciate our agility and willingness to find solutions tailored to their clients’ needs. It’s this reputation for excellence and responsiveness that I think really sets us apart and strengthens our relationships across the industry.
As Devonshire Underwriting continues to grow, how do you see your role evolving within the company?
EJ: Even in the past year, we’ve helped define what it means to be an analyst at Devonshire. Growth is a major focus for the partners, and we understand the steps required to progress. Henry and I are already supporting excess layer deals, and it’s exciting to see that evolution.
DK: As a new starter, it’s reassuring to know that my role will expand based on my contributions. Seeing how Elinor and Henry have grown in responsibility gives me confidence that my career will progress in the same way.
HD: We also have a structured training plan in place now, including third-party training sessions. For example, a law firm recently presented on tax implications, which was incredibly insightful. The ability to develop expertise in emerging markets is particularly appealing to me, and I look forward to working on more complex deals.
What are the biggest challenges you face in your role, and what skills do you think are most important for success?
EJ: Responsiveness is key – managing multiple priorities while ensuring nothing falls through the cracks is a challenge, but we’ve refined our approach over time and have always kept pace with demand, which I’m really proud of.
HD: The learning curve is steep. Every month, I find my understanding increasing exponentially. Initially, I had to ask a lot of questions, but now I can assess a deal and determine the right approach much more confidently.
DK: Adaptability is crucial. Balancing time management, client relationships, and underwriting responsibilities requires a diverse skill set. Being in an open, collaborative office has accelerated my learning, as there’s always someone willing to answer a question or offer guidance.
HD: Broker relationships are also critical. It’s not just about being good at underwriting – it’s about being someone brokers trust and want to work with, and understand the judgement calls we make. That professional credibility is key to long-term success.
Thank you!
Devonshire Underwriting’s analysts are integral to day-to-day operations and play a key role in shaping the company’s future. Find out more about our team.
