Chief Distribution Officer

The job profile for this position is Sales (IC) Senior Director, which is a Band 5 Management Career Track Role.

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Role Overview:

We are seeking a dynamic, growth and highly driven Chief Distribution Officer (CDO) to drive strategy and execute the delivery supporting our growth ambitions across the Middle East region.  

Reporting to the CEO and part of the Regional Executive Team, the CDO will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of distribution, including channel development, partner management, product and proposition development, market expansion, critically, optimising value and retention of our existing clients.

This role requires a deep understanding of Health Insurance markets across the Middle East, with experience in Europe and the US, an advantage, as well as experience of working with cross-functional teams in a multi-national environment. The CDO will collaborate closely with stakeholders across the organisation to develop and execute strategies that create distinct value for our clients and customers, enabling business growth and profitability and to improve the customer and client experience.  

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a regional distribution strategy that aligns with the company’s vision and growth objectives. Identify new market opportunities.

  
  

• Channel Development: Lead the creation and management of a diverse network of distribution channels, aligned with market dynamics, including direct sales, partnerships, digital platforms and other distributors. Ensuring these channels consistently reflect the Cigna brand and value proposition.

  
  

• Partnership Management: Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, including brokers and consultants, corporate clients, and industry bodies.

  
  

• Product, Proposition and Market Expansion: Oversee the identification and optimisation of new market opportunities or trends, responding to changing market conditions, demands and regulatory environment. Partner with key internal and external stakeholders to prioritise and execute expansion.

  
  

• Revenue optimisation: Analyse and optimise the performance of all distribution channels, within new and existing business. Implement best practices and technologies to improve efficiency and optimise revenue growth.

  
  

• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing sales and client management team, aligned with Cigna’s culture and values. Foster a culture of excellence, innovation, accountability and teamwork.

  
  

• Data-driven decision making: Utilise data analytics and market insights to inform distribution strategies, track performance metrics and make informed decisions to drive growth.

  
  

• Compliance: With high levels of personal integrity, ensure that all distribution activities comply with both local market and Cigna standards

  
  

EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE & OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Fluency in English is a must, with Arabic also preferred.

  
  

• Bachelor’s Degree required; MBA is preferred.

  
  

• Industry and leadership experience of 15+ years.

  
  

• Proven experience in a regional or global leadership role.

  
  

• Experience in leading and influencing in a matrixed environment is critical.

  
  

• Able to travel 25% or more, primarily across the Middle East.

  
  

COMPETENCIES:

• Strong strategic thinking, strategy execution and development.

  
  

• Business and Financial Acumen, specifically underwriting.

  
  

• Advanced negotiation skills.

  
  

• Excellent client and partnership management skills.

  
  

• Strong communications and interpersonal skills, verbal and written communication.

  
  

• Personal resilience and adaptability.

  
  

• Ability to foster collaboration, value other perspectives and gain support and buy-in for organizational proposals.

  
  

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

  
  

• Ability to manage and mentor others. Viewed as a leader and mentor. Sought out for advice and council within and outside of direct team.

  
  

• Excellent oral, written and communication skills. Strong Presenting Skills demonstrated ability to build a storyline and narrative to influence internal or external audiences.

  
  

• Proven ability to work effectively with a multicultural team, fostering collaboration and inclusivity to drive operational success and talent.

  
  

• Inspirational leadership and a strong commitment to talent development, nurturing and empowering team members to reach their full potential and contribute effectively to achievement of organisational priorities.

  
  

• High level of proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

  
  

Please note that you must meet our posting guidelines to be eligible for consideration.  Policy can be reviewed at this link.