Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) - Insurance & Investments

About the role

The Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) develops and executes corporate strategies to drive sustainable growth, profitability and competitive advantage across insurance and investment businesses. The role covers market expansion, investment opportunities, business transformation, strategic partnerships, mergers and acquisitions and long-term corporate planning, aligned with market trends, financial performance and regulatory requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term strategic plans, business priorities and growth initiatives across insurance and investment operations.
• Identify new markets, customer segments, distribution channels and ways to increase revenue and market share.
• Evaluate investment opportunities, capital allocation strategies, portfolio growth and potential returns with investment leadership.
• Develop strategies for insurance product expansion, market penetration, distribution partnerships, customer acquisition and profitability.
• Identify potential acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic alliances and business restructuring opportunities.
• Analyse industry trends, competition, regulatory developments and emerging business models.
• Collaborate with finance and business leaders on forecasts, business cases, growth projections and resource allocation.
• Set strategic KPIs, monitor performance, evaluate outcomes and recommend corrective actions.
• Identify opportunities to use technology, automation, data analytics and digital platforms to improve competitiveness and customer experience.
• Work with the CEO, COO, CFO, investment leaders and business unit heads to turn strategic priorities into actionable plans.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Accounting or a related field; MBA, master's in strategy or finance or equivalent professional qualifications preferred.
• Typically 10-15+ years of experience in corporate strategy, financial services, insurance, investments, management consulting or business transformation.
• Proven track record developing and executing corporate strategies, growth plans and market expansion initiatives.
• Experience in M&A, strategic partnerships, business case development or capital allocation preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work with C-suite executives, boards and senior leadership.

Required skills

• Strong understanding of insurance markets, investment products, financial analysis and competitive strategy.
• Excellent analytical, commercial, communication, leadership and strategic decision-making skills.