Business Program Director

Business Program Director

The Zurich StandAlone countries are embarking on a new core system replacement focusing on Policy Admin and Claims and looking for an accomplished Business Program Director with extensive experience in leading international and complex transformation software replacement programs in the insurance sector.

On behalf of the executive sponsors, the Business Program Director will be responsible for leading and managing the delivery of complex business and IT system implementation projects across multiple business units (BU) and functions. This role will oversee the planning, execution, monitoring, and closure of all aspects of the projects, including scope, schedule, budget, quality, risks, issues, dependencies, and benefits realization. This role will also coordinate and communicate with internal (Business Units, Group Commercial Insurance and Group Technology and Operations) and external stakeholders, including senior and C-level management to ensure the alignment of project objectives and expectations.

This is a newly established role and will report to the CEOs’ of the three respective business units BeNe, France and Nordics. The role will have high visibility and followed closely by our Group Chief Information & Digital Officer and our CI COO. It is the first time CI will implement a single solution across 3 business units (7 countries, 4 currencies, 3 ExCo)

You will be required to spend significant amount of time in Zaventem (Belgium), where the key team members are located. In addition, you will regularly visit Sweden and France.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and communicate the vision, scope, and objectives of the transformation program.
• Develop and manage the transformation roadmap, budget, timeline, and governance structure.
• Ensure that the program aligns with the organization's strategic objectives and goals, focusing on delivering tangible business value.
• Define clear business outcomes and key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of the program, ensuring that the delivered solution contributes to achieving these objectives.
• Collaborate closely with business stakeholders (senior leadership, business units, and functional areas) to understand their requirements, priorities, and expectations, and translate them into actionable plans
• Identify potential risks and opportunities associated with the program's objectives, proactively mitigating risks and capitalizing on opportunities to enhance business value.
• Lead and coach the transformation team and foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability.
• Producing and distributing status reports, inclusive of timeline, budget, change, key issues, and risks
• Establish and maintain effective communication and collaboration with project sponsors, stakeholders, vendors, and senior management, providing regular and timely project status updates and reports.
• Work closely with the IT Program Delivery lead on software delivery aspects including delivery planning & execution, resource management and vendor management.

Key skills and expertise:

• Demonstrated ability to provide strategic direction and leadership throughout the lifecycle of complex software replacement programs
• Proven track record in managing relationships with diverse stakeholders including executives, business leaders, IT professionals, and external vendors.
• At least 10 years of experience in leading and managing complex and large-scale transformation programs preferably in a large and complex organization
• Relevant working experience in Insurance sector (preferable), Banking or Financial services
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, adept at facilitating productive discussions, resolving conflicts, and fostering a collaborative team environment to achieve program objectives.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing program budgets, resource allocation
• Strong strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Highly organized, detail-oriented (when needed), and self-motivated, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Ability to adapt, innovate, and cope with ambiguity and uncertainty.
• Languages: Excellent English skills (oral & written) is required, French will be a plus
• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
• Project Management Professional certifications/qualifications will be a plus.
• Willingness to travel between the locations (when required)

We offer

An international, entrepreneurial, and informal working environment with professional growth and development opportunities. We offer a package that aligns with your experience and the responsibilities of your future role.

Are you ready to start a new adventure at the forefront of the commercial insurance industry?

Our 56’000 employees worldwide form the basis of our success, enabling businesses and communities to face a world of risk with confidence. If you are looking to be supported by a world-class team who believe in helping you to reach your full potential and deliver on our promises, join Team Zurich!

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