Head of Distribution

Job Description

Are you looking for your next opportunity?

Sompo has a unique opportunity for a VP, Head of Distribution – Belgium & Netherlands in our Belgium & Netherlands team.

This role will work closely with the Country Manager as well as the Line of Business Heads for Belgium & Netherlands focusing on the development and expansion of our client and broker relationships, as well as supporting the acceleration of profitable growth and retention by working with the Line of Business organization in achieving profitability targets, in line with our local, regional and global strategies.  As such they will work closely with the Continental Europe Head of Distribution to ensure a unified and coordinated approach in delivering on our overarching strategy.

The role will be responsible for defining the client/ broker management and distribution strategy across Belgium & Netherlands, delivering organic growth and ensuring that the appropriate frameworks and methodologies are in place for the mitigation of risk.

Additionally, the role will require acting as a company ambassador in the marketplace and with other external stakeholders, seeking to develop and maintain relationships with these key constituents and influencers.

Location: This position will be based out of our Rotterdam or Brussels offices. We strive for collaboration which is why we offer a work environment where our employees thrive and develop long lasting careers.

Our business, your impact, our opportunity:

What you’ll be doing:

• Strategic development of broker and client relationships across Belgium & Netherlands with a focus on maximising profitable growth and potential new business opportunities

• Focus and strengthen the quality and depth of relationships as well as our service proposition with the broker community and, in doing so, develop an ongoing pipeline of opportunities for Sompo in Belgium & Netherlands

• Working with other members of senior management within Belgium & Netherlands and the Continental Europe region, assist in developing relationships with the broking community, helping to identify new business opportunities and potential new products.

• Responsible for working with the Line of Business Underwriting leadership team and the Country Manager to create and drive the market strategy, working collaboratively with multiple stakeholder groups.

• Develop the broker distribution strategy, supporting the business line underwriters.

• Develop effective client and potentially MGA distribution strategies.

• Facilitate cross-selling opportunities across business lines, including sharing of opportunities and knowledge.

• Support marketing efforts, creating high quality, original solutions to enhance the reputation and market presence of Sompo.

• Fully understand client and broker needs, proactively matching those with Sompo’s expertise and appetite in the the Belgian and Dutch markets.

• Work with underwriters to ensure broker partners deliver on the agreed services within line of business and global agreements and support the development of local agreements

• Work with the Continental Europe Distribution Team to build and develop meaningful management information systems and practices for key internal stakeholders and distribution partners.

• Support value-add projects, developments, and activities, as required.

• Represent Sompo externally at the highest-level including interests with the press and relevant internal & external shareholders, in commercial negotiations and/or through participation in industry forums, corporate communications events, etc to raise Sompo’s profile within the marketplace.

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  What you’ll bring:

  The Head of Client Management, Distribution and Business Development Belgium & Netherlands will be a pragmatic, action‐oriented, entrepreneurial leader who is a self‐starter and brings depth of experience leading and working in complex, collaborative team settings. S/he will bring a high tolerance for uncertainty and the ability to thrive in an environment of growth and change. The successful candidate will be persuasive and able to craft a compelling and urgent narrative that cultivates support.

  Specifically, s/he will possess the following:

  15+ years of experience working in senior management positions within Belgium & Netherlands; wider experience is a plus

  Deep insurance industry knowledge, underpinned by relevant qualifications and a strong track record of accomplishment.

  A strong, visible leader who can carry people with her/him and is able to lead from the front, able to empower others and let them lead where they have the skills and capability to do so.

  A “business building” mindset with a demonstrated track record of success in growing an insurance business, both organically and through targeted acquisition of teams, books of business and/or companies.

  Proven strategic business development acumen underpinned by exceptional sales and marketing abilities.

  Strong interpersonal, communication and leadership skills. Able to provide clear direction through periods of change.

  The highest levels of integrity.

  Strong leadership skills and a team player. Deep knowledge of international management processes and corporate dynamics as well as a thorough understanding of the market and industry environment.

  Strong understanding of economic relationships, business models in the insurance industry and knowledge of strategy development.

  Recognizes opportunities and approaches new trends with an entrepreneurial mindset.

  Ability to assess strategic issues and deliver tactical solutions. Strong experience in developing and executing annual and long-term strategic plans.

  Good understanding of the insurance regulatory environment and its influence in business development, underwriting and claims management strategies.

  Demonstrated leadership in performance management and team building, combined with extensive skills in analysing and solving issues or problems.

  Naturally connects and builds strong relationships with others, demonstrating strong emotional intelligence and an ability to communicate clearly and persuasively.

  Language skills: English; Dutch; French; any other European language is a plus

  Willingness to travel locally/ regionally as required

  Our Benefits

  We continuously evaluate and update our benefit programs to ensure that our plans meet the needs of our employees and their dependents. Below are a few highlights of our inclusive benefit programs:

  •   Expansive Health & Wellness Benefits

  •   Generous Retirement & Savings Plans

  •   Global Parental Leave & Adoption Assistance

In today’s world, what do we stand for?

We strive to create exceptional value for our clients and shareholders while maintaining Sompo as an attractive place to work. We foster an environment of ongoing, open dialogue between managers and their direct reports, and believe in an organizational environment where everyone belongs. We proudly are a multi-racial, multi- cultural, global enterprise. We reject all forms of racism, bigotry, prejudice and injustice and continue to invest in building out an inclusive and diverse work environment.

About Us

Expert Partners. Clarity in complexity. Unwavering commitment.

We’re Sompo, a global provider of property, casualty, and specialty insurance and reinsurance. Building on

Sompo Holdings’ 130 years of innovation, we’re committed to applying all of our experience to simplify yours.

Our dedication to you shows up in the care we put in every detail, working to create a frictionless risk management journey for everyone we serve.

We lead with your priorities, meticulously crafting solutions, sharing insights, and understanding your needs. Around the world, our 9,000+ employees use their expertise to learn, improve and find clear answers for your

complex challenges.

Because when you choose Sompo, you choose the ease of expertise.

To learn more about visit our website at www.sompo-intl.com