Role Overview for SVP, Risk Management with a National Insurer – Hartford, CT
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, nationally recognized insurance carrier in their search for a Senior Vice President (SVP) of Risk Management. This pivotal executive leadership role, based in the insurance hub of Hartford, CT, is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned and strategic risk professional to shape the future of risk oversight within a dynamic and growing organization. The SVP will be the principal architect and steward of the company’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework, providing critical guidance to the executive leadership team and the Board of Directors.
Reporting directly to the Chief Risk Officer (CRO), you will be entrusted with leading a sophisticated, multi-faceted risk function. Your mandate will be to ensure that the company’s risk-taking activities are aligned with its strategic objectives, financial strength, and risk appetite. You will champion a proactive and embedded risk culture across all business units, transforming risk management from a compliance function into a strategic enabler of sustainable growth.
This role demands a visionary leader who can navigate the complexities of the modern insurance landscape, from evolving regulatory demands and sophisticated financial risks to emerging threats like cybersecurity and climate change. You will be instrumental in safeguarding the company’s balance sheet, protecting its reputation, and creating long-term value for all stakeholders.
The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking leader with a deep understanding of the property and casualty (P&C) or life insurance sectors. You possess not only exceptional technical and analytical skills but also the executive presence and communication prowess to influence decisions at the highest levels. This is a career-defining role for an individual looking to make a significant impact on a market-leading institution.
Key Responsibilities of SVP, Risk Management with a National Insurer – Hartford, CT
ERM Framework Leadership
Drive the design, implementation, and continuous enhancement of the company-wide Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework, policies, and procedures to ensure they are robust, comprehensive, and aligned with industry best practices.
Risk Identification and Assessment
Lead a rigorous and systematic process for identifying, analyzing, and quantifying the full spectrum of risks facing the organization. This includes underwriting, market, credit, operational, liquidity, strategic, and reputational risks.
Risk Appetite and Strategy
Collaborate with the Board of Directors and senior executive management to define, articulate, and monitor the company’s risk appetite and tolerance levels. Ensure risk considerations are fully integrated into the strategic planning and capital allocation processes.
Quantitative Analysis and Modeling
Oversee the development, validation, and application of advanced risk models, including capital models, stress testing, and scenario analysis, to provide deep insights into the company’s risk profile and capital adequacy.
Regulatory Compliance and Relations
Serve as a key point of contact for regulators on risk-related matters. Ensure the company maintains full compliance with all applicable regulations, including guidelines from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), state insurance departments, and other relevant bodies.
Risk Reporting and Communication
Develop and deliver clear, concise, and insightful risk reports for the Chief Risk Officer, CEO, executive committees, and the Board of Directors. Effectively communicate complex risk concepts to diverse audiences to support informed decision-making.
Team Leadership and Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-caliber team of risk management professionals. Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance culture that promotes professional growth and a strong risk-aware mindset throughout the organization.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Build strong partnerships with leaders across all business units, including Underwriting, Actuarial, Finance, Investments, Legal, and Compliance, to embed risk management practices into daily operations and strategic initiatives.
Emerging Risk Management
Establish and lead a process to identify, assess, and develop mitigation strategies for emerging risks, such as climate change, pandemics, technological disruption, and geopolitical instability.
Crisis Management and Business Continuity
Play a senior leadership role in the company’s crisis management and business continuity planning efforts, ensuring the organization is resilient and prepared to respond effectively to significant disruptive events.
Requirements for the SVP, Risk Management with a National Insurer – Hartford, CT
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in risk management, actuarial science, or a related field within the insurance industry. At least 7-10 years of this experience must be in a senior leadership capacity, managing teams and influencing executive-level strategy.
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Actuarial Science, or a related quantitative field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Professional Designations
Relevant professional certifications such as Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society (FCAS), Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA), Financial Risk Manager (FRM), or Professional Risk Manager (PRM) are highly desirable.
Technical Expertise
Deep and demonstrable expertise in ERM frameworks (e.g., COSO), risk and capital modeling, stress testing, and scenario analysis. A comprehensive understanding of insurance products, operations, and financial principles is essential.
Regulatory Acumen
In-depth knowledge of the U.S. insurance regulatory environment, including state-based solvency and risk management requirements (e.g., Own Risk and Solvency Assessment – ORSA).
Leadership and Influence
Proven track record of building and leading high-performing teams. Exceptional executive presence, with the ability to articulate a clear vision and influence outcomes with senior executives, board members, and regulators.
Strategic Mindset
Strong business acumen with the ability to translate complex risk concepts into strategic business implications and actionable recommendations. Must be able to balance risk mitigation with the pursuit of profitable growth opportunities.
Communication Skills
Outstanding written, verbal, and presentation skills. Ability to distill complex information into clear, compelling messages for a variety of audiences.
Integrity and Judgment
Unquestionable personal and professional integrity, sound judgment, and the courage to challenge the status quo when necessary.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A lucrative base salary complemented by a significant annual bonus potential and a long-term incentive plan (LTI) tied to company performance.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with robust wellness programs and resources.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match and potential for profit-sharing contributions. Access to an executive deferred compensation plan.
Paid Time Off
A generous and flexible paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company-paid holidays, plus comprehensive parental leave.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your continued growth with support for professional memberships, conferences, and executive coaching opportunities.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family to the greater Hartford, CT area.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative risk leader ready to take on a challenge of this magnitude, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the role.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive search for the financial services and insurance sectors. To learn more about our expertise in this space, please visit the page for our dedicated insurance recruiting practice. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
