At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and implementation of operational models in a global insurance environment.
- Company: Join Swiss Re Corporate Solutions, a leader in innovative insurance solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, and hybrid work model.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with opportunities for cross-functional influence.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Credit & Surety with strategic leadership and tech-driven transformation.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in financial services and strong project management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 136000 - 204000 £ per year.
Are you a strategic leader passionate about shaping scalable, resilient operating models in a global insurance environment? Join Swiss Re Corporate Solutions and play a defining role in how Credit & Surety delivers best‑in‑class service and sustainable growth — through operational excellence and tech‑enabled transformation.
As Head of Operating Model Excellence, Credit & Surety, you will lead the design, evolution, and implementation of the operational model for one of Swiss Re Corporate Solutions' core business areas. You will shape how work is structured and delivered across underwriting, operations, and enabling functions — driving service quality, efficiency, control effectiveness, and scalability. Leading a focused team of specialists across process, data, technology, and transformation, you will translate strategic priorities into clear target‑state designs, governance frameworks, and executable roadmaps. This is a high‑visibility role with broad cross‑functional exposure and real influence over the long‑term direction of Credit & Surety.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and evolution of the Credit & Surety end‑to‑end operating model, including leveraging AI to enhance efficiency and decision‑making.
- Translate targeted business outcomes into target‑state processes, service models, governance structures, and operating principles.
- Program‑manage technology‑enabled initiatives.
- Identify optimization opportunities and implement sustainable solutions.
- Identify risks and control gaps and drive mitigation.
- Track outcomes and embed continuous improvement.
- Act as a trusted partner to business and functional leaders.
- Drive collaboration across functions and regions.
- Align stakeholders around clear direction and outcomes.
The Operational Model Excellence (OMEX) team sits within the Operations division of Swiss Re Corporate Solutions and serves as the strategic engine behind Credit & Surety's operational evolution. Bringing together specialists in process, data, technology, and transformation, the team works at the intersection of strategy and delivery — partnering closely with underwriting, operations, finance, risk, and regional teams to drive cross‑functional change and embed operational best practices.
About You
You are a strategic and structured leader who combines experience with strong execution capabilities. You navigate complexity with confidence, connect big‑picture strategy to practical delivery, and bring analytical rigor, sound judgment, and a collaborative style to everything you do.
We Are Looking For Candidates Who Meet These Requirements
- 10+ years of professional experience in financial services — commercial insurance, reinsurance, or similarly complex regulated environments.
- Relevant work experience in credit insurance, surety, or commercial credit risk related businesses.
- 5+ years in transformation, operational excellence, or operational leadership, with a proven track record of leading cross‑functional change and translating strategy into outcomes.
- Strong program and project management skills, with the ability to lead complex, multi‑stakeholder initiatives through influence.
- Proven experience leading technology and AI implementations as program manager, product owner, or business owner.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to manage ambiguity and influence senior leaders across functions, regions, and cultures.
These Experiences Would Be Beneficial For The Role
- Exposure to AI‑enabled process transformation or digital operating model design.
- Background in management consulting or advisory roles within financial services.
- Experience embedding governance frameworks and controls in a regulated environment.
For London, the annual base salary range for this position is between 136,000 and 204,000 GBP (for a full‑time role). The specific salary offered considers the requirements, scope, complexity and responsibilities of the role, and the applicant's own profile including education, qualifications, expertise, specialization, skills and experience. In addition to your base salary, you may be eligible for additional rewards and benefits including an attractive performance‑based annual bonus.
Our company has a hybrid work model where the expectation is that you will be in the office at least three days per week.
Head of Operational Model Excellence, Credit & Surety (Hybrid; m/f/x/d; 80-100%) in London employer: Swiss Re
Swiss Re Corporate Solutions is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, making it an ideal place for strategic leaders in the insurance sector. With a strong focus on operational excellence and technology-driven transformation, employees benefit from a dynamic work environment that encourages professional growth and cross-functional engagement. The hybrid work model allows for flexibility while being part of a high-visibility team that plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Credit & Surety.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operational Model Excellence, Credit & Surety (Hybrid; m/f/x/d; 80-100%) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company, understand their operational model, and think about how your experience aligns with their needs. We want you to walk in feeling confident and ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills through real-life examples. When discussing your experience, highlight specific projects where you've driven transformation or operational excellence. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can deliver results.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in being part of our team at Swiss Re Corporate Solutions.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operational Model Excellence, Credit & Surety (Hybrid; m/f/x/d; 80-100%) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in operational excellence and transformation. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Head of Operational Model Excellence.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:In your application, emphasise your experience leading cross-functional teams and driving change. We’re looking for someone who can connect strategy to execution, so share specific examples of your past successes.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our hybrid work environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Swiss Re
✨Know Your Operating Model Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding operational models, especially in the context of credit and surety. Be ready to discuss how you would design and implement these models, and think about specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your strategic thinking and execution capabilities.
✨Showcase Your Transformation Experience
Prepare to highlight your experience in transformation and operational excellence. Bring concrete examples of how you've led cross-functional change and implemented technology solutions, particularly those involving AI. This will show your ability to translate strategy into actionable outcomes.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you’ve successfully engaged with stakeholders in previous roles. Be prepared to discuss your communication style and how you manage ambiguity while influencing senior leaders. This is crucial for a role that requires collaboration across functions and regions.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Rigor
Be ready to showcase your analytical skills by discussing how you've identified risks and control gaps in past projects. Prepare to explain how you track outcomes and embed continuous improvement in your work, as this aligns perfectly with the expectations for the Head of Operational Model Excellence.
