Head of Sales - Life Insurance Business

About the role

A reputable, established Kenyan insurance company is looking for a Head of Sales for its Life Insurance Business, reporting to the CEO. The role drives growth, profitability and market penetration of the Life Insurance portfolio, with direct accountability for annual and monthly sales targets, revenue, distribution channels and the departmental budget. It is based in Nairobi.

Key responsibilities

• Drive life insurance sales and market share, set and monitor weekly and monthly targets, and personally close high-value client and corporate deals
• Develop a distribution strategy across agency, bancassurance, brokers, direct sales and digital, recruiting and onboarding new intermediaries
• Take part in company policy and strategy, develop an annual business plan and turn it into operational targets
• Prepare and control the life department budget, monitor production budgets and costs, and submit periodic performance reports to management and the Board
• Build and lead a sales and operations team, working with HR on recruitment, training and appraisal, and coach branch teams and intermediaries
• Ensure efficient operations, compliance with IRA regulations and internal policies, and a positive corporate image

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in a business-related field; a master's degree or MBA is an added advantage
• Professional insurance qualification (CII, ACII or AIIK) preferred
• Minimum 8-10 years' sales experience, including at least 8 years in direct sales management
• Experience in insurance or financial services is highly desirable

Required skills

• Proven leadership skills
• Strategic thinking, business acumen and sales and business development orientation
• Effective communication, client relationship management and people management
• Results orientation and accountability
• Extensive experience in operations management