HEAD OF COOPERATIVES

About Us

CIC Insurance Group is a leading insurance and financial services organization with over five decades of experience supporting individuals, families, cooperatives, SMEs, and corporates to achieve financial security.

The Group offers a diversified portfolio spanning general insurance, life assurance, microinsurance, asset management, and investment solutions, with operations in Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, and Malawi, and is listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange.

Our tagline, “We Keep Our Word,” reflects our unwavering commitment to integrity, transparency, and delivering on our promises to clients, regulators, partners, and communities. CIC is committed to innovation, digital transformation, and prudent risk management to deliver sustainable value across its markets.

About the Role

Reporting to the Managing Director, the Head of cooperatives role will provide strategic leadership in developing and managing the Cooperative business portfolio, driving profitable growth, strengthening relationships with cooperatives and their members, and delivering sustainable insurance solutions that meet the needs of the cooperative sector.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategy & Business Development

• Develop and implement the Cooperative business strategy in line with the company’s overall strategic objectives.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within SACCOs, cooperatives, unions, associations, and other organized groups.
• Develop innovative insurance solutions tailored to the needs of cooperative members.
• Drive achievement of premium, revenue, profitability, and market growth targets.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and emerging opportunities within the cooperative sector.

Relationship & Stakeholder Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with cooperative societies, SACCOs, unions, associations, and key decision-makers.
• Develop strategic partnerships to increase insurance penetration and customer acquisition.
• Represent the company at cooperative sector meetings, forums, conferences, and stakeholder engagements.
• Ensure effective communication and resolution of stakeholder concerns.

Sales & Portfolio Management

• Lead the development and execution of sales plans for the Cooperative portfolio.
• Oversee acquisition, retention, and growth of cooperative business.
• Monitor portfolio performance, premium collection, renewals, and profitability.
• Work closely with branches, intermediaries, bancassurance, and other distribution channels to maximize business opportunities.
• Ensure effective cross-selling and up-selling of relevant insurance products.

Product Development & Customer Solutions

• Identify gaps in the market and recommend development or enhancement of products for the cooperative sector.
• Work with Underwriting, Claims, Finance, and other functions to ensure products and services meet customer needs.
• Promote simplified, accessible, and value-driven insurance solutions for cooperative members.
• Monitor customer feedback and recommend improvements to service delivery.

Team Leadership & Performance Management

• Lead, coach, and develop the Cooperative team to achieve business objectives.
• Set clear performance targets and monitor individual and team performance.
• Build a high-performance culture focused on accountability, innovation, and customer service.
• Identify training and development needs and support staff capability building.

Risk, Compliance & Governance

• Ensure cooperative business is conducted in compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and approved underwriting guidelines.
• Monitor portfolio risks and implement appropriate mitigation measures.
• Ensure proper documentation, controls, and reporting across the Cooperative business.
• Work with relevant functions to address audit, compliance, and risk-related matters.

Reporting & Performance Management

• Prepare and present periodic reports on Cooperative business performance, growth, profitability, and key risks.
• Track achievement against budgets, business plans, and agreed KPIs.
• Provide management with market intelligence and recommendations for business growth.
• Monitor and report on key strategic initiatives and action plans.

Who We’re Looking For

Academic & Professional Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Insurance, Cooperative Management, or a related discipline.
• Professional insurance qualification such as ACII, CII, Diploma in Insurance
• Masters Degree in related field is an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in working with Cooperatives.

Key Competencies

• Strategic leadership and business acumen
• Business development and sales management
• Cooperative and stakeholder relationship management
• Negotiation and influencing skills
• Customer-centric mindset
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Team leadership and people development
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Results orientation and accountability