At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance strategy and governance for Zurich Legacy Solutions, driving value and managing portfolios.
- Company: Join a trusted partner in insurance solutions with a focus on innovation and impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, competitive pension, bonuses, and health insurance tailored to your needs.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to wellbeing and community support.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance in a dynamic environment while making a real difference.
- Qualifications: Senior finance experience in insurance, strategic thinking, and strong stakeholder management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Working hours: This role is available on a part-time, job-share or full-time basis.
Location: London
Closing date for applications: 24th July 2026
The opportunity:
We are looking for a senior finance leader to assume responsibility as Chief Financial Officer for Zurich Legacy Solutions (ZLS). In this role, you will shape and lead the finance agenda for ZLS, partnering closely with the CEO and leadership team to maximise economic value, support strategic transactions and ensure robust financial governance across our run-off and exit activities. Success in this role requires strategic thinking, strong commercial judgement and comfort working through complex problem solving and ambiguity.
Many of our employees work flexibly in a variety of different ways, including part-time, flexible hours, job share, an element of working from home or compressed hours. This is because we want the best people for our roles, and we recognise that sometimes those people aren’t available full-time. Please talk to us at interview about the flexibility you may need.
About Zurich Legacy Solutions (ZLS)
ZLS is the trusted partner for run-off and exit solutions for Zurich Insurance Group’s legacy businesses and under-performing, non-core portfolios. Our current portfolio stands at approximately USD 4bn and covers P&C and life insurance exposures across the US, Europe, and APAC. ZLS works closely with relevant Business Units to find strategic solutions for legacy issues, aiming to accelerate capital redemption and maximise economic value. Engagement can include executing portfolio disposals, as well as managing the ongoing run-off and future performance of portfolios or legal entities. ZLS is a management entity with a reporting line into the Head of Group Reinsurance, within Group Finance.
What will you be doing?
- Own the ZLS finance strategy, operating model and control environment, ensuring strong governance and oversight across all ZLS activities.
- Partner with the CEO ZLS and ZLS leadership team to evaluate, onboard and manage Zurich’s legacy portfolios, supporting value maximisation during run-off and through exit transactions.
- Hold finance accountability across a global portfolio and lead an international team across financial planning, forecasting and performance management, providing clear, timely insight to support decision-making.
- Oversee financial reporting and management information, ensuring accuracy, transparency and appropriate escalation of material issues.
- Provide finance leadership on transactions (e.g., portfolio disposals, acquisitions, reinsurance/retro solutions and other strategic options), including financial evaluation, deal support and integration/transition as required.
- Ensure robust liquidity, capital and balance sheet management in line with applicable requirements and Group frameworks.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders across Group Finance, Business Units and relevant governance forums, as well as with key external markets and advisers.
- Champion continuous improvement, appropriate risk management and effective cross-functional ways of working within a lean management entity.
- Provide stewardship of several regulated (re)insurance entities in run-off (domiciled in U.S. and Bermuda) via Board representation, providing constructive challenge and oversight of relevant activities.
- Directly manage a team of around 15 finance colleagues, as well an indirect oversight of the actuarial function.
What are we looking for?
- Senior finance or actuarial leadership experience within P&C (re)insurance, with a strong understanding of insurance balance sheets, performance drivers and related capital metrics.
- Experience working with legacy/run-off portfolios, strategic transactions (e.g., disposals) and/or complex, cross-border stakeholder environments is strongly preferred.
- Strong technical finance capability (reporting, planning, controls) with the judgement to simplify and communicate clearly to senior stakeholders.
- Proven ability to operate effectively in a lean set-up, influencing through partnership rather than large teams.
- Strategic thinker with a track record of navigating complex situations, exercising sound judgement and delivering outcomes in ambiguous environments.
- Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to challenge constructively and enable high-quality decision-making.
- Strong governance mindset, with experience operating across control frameworks and working effectively with risk, compliance, audit and actuarial partners.
- Deep P&C (re)insurance experience is a pre-requisite for the role. However, life insurance experience is also beneficial.
- Professional Finance or Actuarial qualification.
Additional information
If you are excited by the opportunity to help shape and deliver run-off and exit solutions at scale — and to support ZLS in accelerating capital redemption and mitigating exposure — we would love to hear from you.
What will you get in return?
Everyone’s different. That’s why at Zurich, we offer a wide range of employee benefits so our people can choose what fits them and their life. Our benefits provide real flexibility so our people can make considered choices and tailor their benefits throughout the year. Our benefits include 12% defined non-contributory pension scheme, annual company bonus, private medical insurance and the option to buy up to an additional 20 days or sell some of your holiday, alongside a range of other flexible benefits.
You can find out more about our wide range of employee benefits on our website.
Who we are:
At Zurich we aspire to be one of the most responsible and impactful businesses in the world. Together, we’re creating a brighter future for our customers, our people and our planet.
With over 65,000 employees, you’ll feel the support of being part of a strong and stable company that is a long-standing player in the insurance industry.
We’ve made a promise to each other and every employee: to focus on sustainable impact, to care about each other’s wellbeing, to use our diverse expertise to be curious and optimistic and to develop the skills needed for our future.
If you’re interested in working in a dynamic and challenging environment where your creativity, ideas and contributions are recognised and rewarded, Zurich could be just the place for you. Be part of something great.
Our culture:
At Zurich, our strength comes from the diverse experiences, perspectives and talents of our people. Our goal is to create a workplace where every employee can flourish and where everyone feels valued, heard and respected.
Over a quarter of our employees are members of at least one of our inclusion communities (Employee Resource Groups), with groups focused on areas such as social mobility and cultural awareness. We’re proud to have received numerous industry awards recognising our diversity and inclusion policies and initiatives.
We’ve created an environment that places real importance on our people’s wellbeing from a physical, mental, social and financial perspective. We work with our wellbeing partners and industry experts to provide practical advice and access to a wide range of lifestyle support, alongside opportunities to learn, grow and develop the skills needed for the future. We actively support our employees to give back to their communities through volunteering and charitable activity. Our charitable arm, Zurich Community Trust, is one of the longest‑established corporate trusts in the UK. Together, we’ve supported causes across the UK through grants and volunteering, contributing over £100 million in funding and volunteered time.
Your application:
We’re committed to treating all applicants fairly and with respect, irrespective of their actual or assumed background, sexual orientation, disability or any other protected characteristic. As an inclusive employer we also want to ensure that all candidates feel comfortable and are able to perform at their best during the interview. You’ll have the opportunity to let us know of any reasonable adjustment or practical support needed when you apply.
We’d love it if you could submit your application online. If you require an alternative method of applying, please send an email to recruitment@uk.zurich.com.
So, make a difference. Be challenged. Be inspired. Be supported. Love what you do. Work for us. #LI-Hybrid
Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") - Zurich Legacy Solutions ("ZLS") in London employer: Zurich Insurance Group
Zurich Legacy Solutions (ZLS) is an exceptional employer that prioritises flexibility and employee wellbeing, offering a range of benefits including a generous pension scheme, annual bonuses, and private medical insurance. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, ZLS fosters a supportive work culture where every employee can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the company's mission of delivering impactful run-off and exit solutions. Located in London, ZLS provides ample opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic and collaborative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") - Zurich Legacy Solutions ("ZLS") in London
✨Connect with Campus Reps
If you're looking for part-time work in banking, try to connect with your university's career services and campus representatives from banks. They often host recruitment events or provide exclusive job listings, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Get Involved in Financial Societies
Join finance or investment clubs at your university. These societies not only provide fantastic networking opportunities but also often collaborate with financial institutions for internships or part-time roles, making it easier for us to land those positions.
✨Use LinkedIn for Hidden Gems
Keep an eye on LinkedIn for part-time opportunities at banks, specifically targeting roles like customer service or administrative support. Companies like Zurich Insurance Group often post openings there first, so be on the lookout and don’t forget to engage with their content!
✨Showcase Your Skills Directly
When applying for a part-time role, consider creating a simple portfolio that highlights your finance-related skills or projects. Whether it's a personal finance blog, a financial analysis you've done, or any relevant coursework, having this ready can impress hiring managers at Zurich Insurance Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") - Zurich Legacy Solutions ("ZLS") in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers Game:In the banking and financial services world, it's all about numbers. Highlight any relevant coursework, grades, or certifications, like AAT or CFA, on your CV. If you can point to specific projects or tasks where you managed finances or analysed data, that's a big plus!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Us:When writing your cover letter, don’t just reiterate your CV. Tell us why you want to work at Zurich Insurance Group and how this part-time role fits into your career goals. Map your skills and experiences directly to the job spec, and don’t forget to weave in any technical skills you have, like experience with financial software!
Marry Experience with Availability:Since this is part-time, it’s super important to state your availability clearly in your application. Highlight any previous work experience, even if it's not directly in finance, that shows your reliability and ability to juggle various commitments. Flexibility can be a real asset!
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While you want to keep a professional tone, don’t be afraid to inject a bit of your personality into your application. Especially for a part-time role, we’re looking for someone who's not just skilled but also a good fit for the team at Zurich Insurance Group. A little light-heartedness can go a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zurich Insurance Group
✨Brush Up on Your Numbers
For a role in banking and financial services, you’ll likely encounter numerical tests that gauge your analytical skills. So, let’s whip out those maths skills! Practise mental arithmetic and get comfy with basic financial concepts; this'll really help you shine during the assessment stages.
✨Know Your Financial Products
Knowing your stuff about the various financial products and services is crucial. Be prepared to discuss topics like loans, mortgages, investment funds, and credit options. Having a finger on the pulse of current market trends and economic events can also give you an edge—the interviewers will appreciate your insight!
✨Flexibility and Commitment are Key
Since you're aiming for a part-time position, emphasise your flexibility and willingness to commit your time effectively. Highlight your ability to balance studies or other commitments while delivering results at work. This kind of attitude can set you apart from the competition.
✨Showcase Your Portfolio of Experience
Even though it’s a part-time role, companies want to see your motivation and past experience. Bring examples of relevant projects or roles, including internships or coursework that demonstrate your understanding and passion for banking and finance. The more tangible your examples, the more convincing you’ll be!
