Managing Director- Pula RE

Role Overview

As Managing Director, you will lead Pula Re through its start-up phase and establish the people, systems and partnerships needed to deliver its approved business plan. You will work closely with the Board, take direct responsibility for critical early-stage relationships and oversee reinsurance operations, risk, compliance and performance. The role calls for a hands-on leader who can build a strong organisation while adapting its strategy to changing market conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Work with the senior management team and Board to shape a rolling three-year strategy, set measurable KPIs, monitor progress and recommend changes when market conditions or opportunities shift.
• Lead the establishment and day-to-day management of Pula Re, ensuring the organisation, operating model and resources are fit for its responsibilities and business plan.
• Build and lead a capable, diverse team; oversee recruitment, development, performance and organisational design, and delegate responsibility while holding teams accountable.
• During the initial start-up period, personally develop and manage key relationships with regulators, rating agencies, government bodies, clients and other reinsurers.
• Oversee underwriting and claims processes, with a focus on responsive client service, efficient turnaround and control of operational and reputational risk.
• Establish and maintain effective governance, risk management, compliance, internal controls and administrative systems; ensure applicable legal and regulatory obligations are met and audits are managed.
• Manage the company’s risk profile, budget and performance reporting, protect its legal interests, and ensure Board decisions are put into effect.
• Advise the Board on corporate strategy and the wider aims of agricultural insurance, support Pula Re’s external ratings, and review the use and adequacy of resources, including the Pula Advisors AG Services Contract.

Requirements & Qualifications

• At least 15 years of substantial, varied experience in insurance and/or reinsurance.
• Strong knowledge of reinsurance operations and the reinsurance requirements of African and Asian markets; retrocession experience is preferred.
• A master’s degree in a relevant field, such as engineering, finance, banking, economics, business or law.
• Senior leadership experience, including the ability to set direction, build teams, develop talent, make sound staffing decisions and lead organisational change.
• Commercial and analytical judgment, with the ability to assess opportunities quickly, challenge established approaches and make decisions in a changing environment.
• Credibility and influencing skills when working with a Board, government counterparts, regulators, clients and partners from varied backgrounds.
• Excellent written and spoken English; working knowledge of French is an advantage.
• Integrity, energy and the ability to work independently with limited support, while building effective relationships in multicultural settings.
• A genuine interest in contributing to insurance and reinsurance development in emerging and frontier markets.