UK Insurance Sector Sees AI Skills Surge: A Strategic Imperative

The Accelerating Demand for AI Expertise

iCAN Apply data shows a 70% rise in AI-related job listings across the UK insurance market. What was once experimental work is now embedded in underwriting, claims, operations and distribution. Employers are explicitly seeking applied technical skills such as Python for data analysis, experience with large language models, prompt engineering, generative AI, and a working knowledge of AI ethics.

Reshaping Roles and Cultivating Future Talent

Traditional roles are being redefined. Underwriters and claims managers are expected to work with model outputs and automated decision tools. New positions have emerged, including heads of AI enablement and AI product managers who bridge technical teams and business units. That shift creates opportunities for career progression but calls for systematic upskilling.

Practical talent steps employers can take:

Build internal learning pathways: short courses in Python, applied LLM use cases, and prompt engineering paired with on-the-job projects.
Create rotational assignments that pair actuarial, claims and data teams to spread applied AI experience.
Partner with universities and specialist bootcamps for micro-credentials and apprenticeships.
Widen hiring criteria to value transferable analytical skills and real project portfolios alongside formal degrees.

Ethics, Diversity and Bias Mitigation

AI adoption raises responsibility issues. Firms must test models for disparate impact, require explainability in decision flows and involve legal, compliance and customer teams in governance. Talent strategies should include D&I measures: targeted outreach, blind screening where possible, and training hiring panels to reduce bias in candidate evaluation.

Remaining Competitive in an AI-Driven Landscape

UK insurers that invest in measurable learning pathways, cross-functional roles and responsible AI governance will be better positioned to attract high-quality talent and deliver automated services that meet regulatory and customer expectations. Expect continued growth in AI roles and more defined career ladders for professionals who combine domain expertise with modern AI skills.

Data source: iCAN Apply analysis of UK insurance job listings.