Insurance Times releases Talent Development Report
Insurance Times Talent Development Report 2026, produced with Intact Insurance, highlights how the UK‑and‑Ireland insurance market is addressing talent shortages amid rapid digital change.
Survey reveals focus on digital skills and AI
The report draws on a survey of 304 professionals from insurers, brokers, MGAs, Lloyd’s and related firms. Respondents identified artificial intelligence and machine learning as the fastest‑growing competency, with 72 % ranking it as the top priority. Digital and data‑driven abilities now dominate skill‑set discussions, reflecting the sector’s push toward technology‑enabled services.
Interpersonal capabilities remain important. The same survey placed relationship building at 59 %, communication at 54 %, critical thinking at 52 % and adaptability at 50 % for the skills needed in the next five years. This mix suggests firms still value human judgment even as they adopt new tools.
Challenges in attracting young professionals
Regulators are urging insurers to innovate, and the industry’s digital transformation is accelerating. Yet firms report obstacles when trying to lure recent graduates. Many cite limited awareness of insurance careers and competition from tech‑centric employers.
Retention remains a key challenge.
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Companies are investing in upskilling programs that blend technical training with soft‑skill development. By offering structured learning on emerging technologies, firms aim to keep staff engaged and reduce turnover.
One observation from the data is that while AI tools are proliferating, the sector still leans heavily on client trust. This balance is a reminder that technology alone cannot replace the detailed decisions made by experienced professionals.
The report’s authors note that the “Destination Charter,” launched earlier this year, seeks to boost sector‑wide efforts to attract and retain talent. The charter encourages firms to share best practices and raise the profile of insurance careers, a move that aligns with the survey’s call for greater industry collaboration.
Looking ahead, the survey predicts that the skill setting will continue to shift toward digital fluency. Companies that successfully integrate AI training with strong interpersonal skill development are likely to outperform peers that focus on one area alone.
Overall, the report highlights the need for insurers to balance technological adoption with the cultivation of human judgment. As firms manage regulatory pressures and market expectations, the dual focus on digital expertise and client‑centric skills may prove decisive for future growth.
