Our client is an international reinsurance provider with a long-standing presence in global risk markets and a strong footprint across diverse insurance segments. The company supports insurers worldwide through sophisticated risk-transfer solutions, offering expertise across a broad spectrum of non-life and specialty lines. As part of its strategic expansion, the organization is strengthening its presence in Switzerland, establishing a regulated entity in one of the most important global insurance and financial hubs.
With decades of industry experience and a commitment to operational excellence, the firm is building a modern, agile, and globally integrated reinsurance platform that benefits from international reach while maintaining full local accountability under Swiss regulatory standards.
To strengthen and further develop this area, we are exclusively looking for a motivated individual as
Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Job descriptionThe Chief Operating Officer will lead the full operational setup and ongoing operational management of the Swiss reinsurance entity. The role combines strategic design with hands-on execution: ensuring the establishment of efficient operating processes, implementing robust IT and governance structures, and securing full compliance with Swiss regulatory expectations. As a key member of the leadership team, the COO will shape a scalable and resilient operating model that enables sustainable business growth.
Furthermore, you will take over the following responsibilities:
- Operational Leadership: Oversee all operational functions, including policy administration, treaty management, claims coordination, and retrocession processes; ensure that all workflows are documented and follow industry and regulatory standards.
- IT Strategy & Core Systems: Define and execute the company's IT strategy, including the selection, implementation, and maintenance of reinsurance core systems, reporting platforms, and data management frameworks; ensure cybersecurity, business continuity, and disaster recovery in line with regulatory expectations.
- Outsourcing Governance: Manage and monitor key third-party service providers (e.g., actuarial, internal audit, operational support), ensuring robust SLA frameworks, performance tracking, and strict compliance with outsourcing rules.
- Operational Excellence: Build scalable and efficient processes, define internal controls, and ensure audit-ready operational documentation; lead continuous improvement initiatives across the operating model.
- Regulatory Compliance Integration: Partner with Risk, Compliance, Finance, and Actuarial functions to ensure the operational environment meets regulatory expectations regarding operational risk, IT governance, and documentation.
- Human Resources & Office Management: Oversee HR activities including recruitment, performance management, and employee development; manage administrative functions and facilities to ensure a productive business environment.
- Business Continuity & Resilience: Establish, test, and maintain the company's Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery frameworks to ensure operational stability and resilience in crisis scenarios.
- Stakeholder & Board Interaction: Collaborate closely with the CEO, Board of Directors, and control functions to ensure transparent communication, high-quality reporting, and unified governance across all operational matters.
Expected ProfileIn order to successfully perform the duties for this position you will need minimum of 10 years' operational leadership in the insurance or reinsurance industry, including at least 5 years in a senior role; proven expertise in implementing reinsurance core systems and transforming operational infrastructures.
In addition, you have the following experience:
- Regulatory Knowledge: Solid understanding of Swiss regulatory requirements, in particular expectations relating to operational risk, IT governance, outsourcing, and business continuity.
- Leadership Approach: Hands-on, structured, and highly reliable executive with strong project and change management skills; capable of building teams and operations in a start-up environment within a corporate framework.
- Languages: Fluency in English and German required; Portuguese is an advantage.
- Residency: Candidates must already be based in Switzerland or hold valid Swiss/EU/EFTA work authorization.
Benefits