Business Analyst - Career Returners Programme

Markel International | Change Delivery
London | Hybrid | Six-month paid Returners Programme

Applications close: 25 February 2026

Programme start: May 2026

Ready to restart your career with the right support?

Pioneer Search is proud to be partnering once again with Markel International to support their Career Returners Programme, designed specifically for experienced professionals who have taken a career break and are now ready to return to work.

If you have stepped away from your career for 18 months or longer, for any reason, and are looking for a structured, supportive, and confidence-building return to the workplace, this programme is designed for you.

This is not a standard Business Analyst role. It is a professionally paid returners program, built to help you re-enter the workplace successfully, refresh your skills, and rebuild confidence in a genuinely supportive environment.

About the programme

You will join Markel's Change Delivery team on a six-month paid placement, with a strong likelihood of a permanent role at the end of the programme.

Markel understands that returning to work after a career break can feel daunting. This programme has been created with that in mind and includes:

• A structured onboarding and ramp-up period
• Training and support to refresh skills and ways of working
• An internal mentor and day-to-day buddy
• Coaching support through Markel's Career Returners partner
• A collaborative, people-first culture
• Flexible working arrangements

Your career gap is not a disadvantage here. Markel values experience, perspective, and potential.

The role

As a Business Analyst within the Change Delivery team, you will support the delivery of strategic and operational change across the organisation.

You will work closely with business stakeholders and technology teams to help shape solutions that improve processes, systems, and outcomes across Markel International.

Responsibilities will be introduced progressively and may include:

• Working with stakeholders to understand and document business needs
• Supporting the translation of requirements into clear, actionable solutions
• Assisting with workshops, analysis, and change activities
• Contributing to project delivery from design through to adoption
• Supporting user engagement, change management, and benefits tracking

You will not be expected to know everything on day one. Support and development are built into the programme.

Who this is for

This opportunity is designed for professionals who:

• Have previous experience as a Business Analyst or in a Change related role
• Have worked in financial services, insurance, technology, or complex regulated business environments
• Have taken a career break of 18 months or more for any reason
• Are motivated to return to work in a supportive and structured way
• Want to rebuild confidence, update skills, and make a meaningful contribution

You do not need to be fully up to date with every tool or framework. What matters most is your experience, mindset, and willingness to learn.

Why Markel

Markel is a global specialty insurance business with a genuinely people-first culture. They actively invest in their people, value diverse career journeys, and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where returners can thrive.

This programme is a proven Pathway back into the London Market, with long-term opportunity for the right individuals.

How to apply

Pioneer Search is managing this campaign in partnership with Markel International.

If this sounds like you, or someone you know who is considering returning to work, we would love to hear from you. Applications are welcomed directly, and we are also happy to have confidential conversations before applying.

Please note: This role is specifically open to individuals returning to work after a career break of 18 months or longer.