Head of Risk Group Reinsurance

As the risk partner to the business offering independent perspective and expert risk advice on business activities and alignment to the Group and Group Re’s strategy this includes challenging the business, assessing exposures, risk appetite and mitigation options. Lead and inspire a team of highly skilled risk professionals, fostering a culture of deep expertise, transparency, and constructive challenge. Champion risk culture by promoting risk awareness and prudent risk-taking across Group Re and ZRe, embedding the Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework and regulatory requirements as the foundation for all risk activities. Enable informed decisions by delivering timely, actionable risk analyses to help management identify key risks and leading the production of the Own Risk and Solvency Assessment (ORSA) for ZRe. Embed risk frameworks by supporting and monitoring the implementation of Zurich’s risk management frameworks, including the Zurich Risk Policy and the ICIF (Internal Control Integrated Framework) ensuring business processes align with Group standards and regulatory requirements, and that mitigation plans are effectively executed. Act as the local responsible for model governance, ensuring effective oversight and alignment with Zurich’s model risk framework for Group Re and ZRe. Deliver transparent risk reporting and actionable insights to Group Re and ZRe management meetings, as well as technical committees (such as ALMIC and Reserving). Lead and chair the ZRe Risk Control Committee (RCC) and regularly report risk insights to the ZRe Audit and Risk Committee (ARC) and the Board. Facilitate alignment and collaboration with related functions (Compliance, Audit, Legal, Treasury &, Capital Management). Support the growth and development of risk talent across the Group Re organization, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Group Re negotiates external reinsurance treaty structures and provides internal reinsurance capacity to all Zurich legal entities. ZRe, based in Switzerland and licensed by FINMA, delivers reinsurance solutions mainly to affiliated companies within the Zurich Group.

• Minimum 15 years’ professional experience in the insurance industry, preferably with experience in underwriting. Knowledge of reinsurance or pricing an added advantage.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.

• Experience in or working with control functions such as Risk, Compliance, Audit, or other internal control and governance function; good knowledge of operational systems and processes.

• Good knowledge of insurance regulation (including FINMA requirements and the Insurance Act).

• Demonstrated ability to work with senior leaders progressing through roles of increasing responsibility. Preferably experience working with regulators and/or independent Board members.

• Outstanding communication, influencing, and negotiation skills.

• Strategic mindset, operational excellence, and resilience in complex, changing environments. Service-oriented, collaborative approach, and ability to think holistically.

• Fluent oral and written English is essential, strong oral and written German is preferred