Insurers' AI Strategy Is Now a Talent Retention Tool, Sixfold Survey Finds

A new independent survey of 543 underwriting executives and underwriters in the U.S. and Europe reveals that a company's AI strategy has become a deciding factor in talent attraction and retention. The study, "The Future of Underwriting: AI Adoption, Workforce Trends, and Industry Optimism," was commissioned by Sixfold and fielded in May 2026.

Key workforce findings include:

• 72% of underwriters said a structured AI strategy would factor into their choice of employer
• 69% said their current employer's approach to AI makes them more likely to stay
• 77% of executives said they are concerned their best underwriters could leave for competitors with stronger AI capabilities

The shift represents a reversal of earlier industry sentiment. Underwriting teams that once worried AI would eliminate their jobs are now choosing employers based on how well those employers invest in the technology.

Optimism is widespread: 99% of underwriting executives said AI makes them more excited about the industry's future, while 86% of underwriters agreed. 90% of underwriters said they would recommend the profession as a career.

On performance, 92% of executives reported that AI has improved the quality of underwriting decisions, while 76% of underwriters agreed. Every executive surveyed said AI has made their teams faster, better, or both.

Key takeaways:

• 72% of underwriters factor a company's AI strategy into job choice; 69% say it improves retention
• 77% of executives fear losing talent to competitors with stronger AI capabilities or tools
• 99% of underwriting executives say AI makes them more excited about the industry's future
• No underwriter said they treat AI as a fully trusted autonomous part of their workflow

Read the full article on Carrier Management