Role Overview for Chief Compliance Officer with a Major Insurer – Hartford, CT
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, nationally recognized insurance carrier in their search for a dynamic and visionary Chief Compliance Officer (CCO). Based in the insurance capital of Hartford, CT, this executive leadership role is a pivotal opportunity to shape and direct the enterprise-wide compliance framework of a market-leading organization. The CCO will serve as a strategic advisor to the executive leadership team and the Board of Directors, ensuring the company navigates the complex and ever-evolving regulatory landscape with integrity and foresight.
As the CCO, you will be the principal architect of the company’s compliance culture, fostering an environment where ethical conduct and regulatory adherence are ingrained in every facet of the business. You will be responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing a comprehensive compliance program that effectively prevents, detects, and responds to potential compliance risks across all business lines. This includes life, annuity, property and casualty, and group benefits sectors.
This is more than a traditional compliance role; it is a chance to be a transformative leader, leveraging your expertise to protect the company’s reputation, support its strategic growth objectives, and build trust with clients, regulators, and stakeholders. You will lead a dedicated team of compliance professionals, providing mentorship and guidance while championing a culture of continuous improvement and proactive risk management. For a leader who thrives on challenge and seeks to make a tangible impact, this role offers an unparalleled platform for professional growth and influence within a prestigious and stable organization.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Compliance Officer with a Major Insurer – Hartford, CT
The Chief Compliance Officer will have a broad and critical set of responsibilities, acting as the central figure for all compliance-related matters. Success in this role requires a blend of strategic leadership, deep regulatory knowledge, and exceptional execution capabilities. Key responsibilities include:
Strategic Leadership & Program Development
Design, implement, and continuously enhance a robust, enterprise-wide compliance management system. Establish the strategic direction for the compliance function, ensuring it aligns with the company’s overall business goals and risk appetite.
Regulatory Relationship Management
Serve as the primary liaison with all key regulatory bodies, including state insurance departments, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), and the Department of Labor (DOL). Manage regulatory inquiries, examinations, and audits with professionalism and transparency.
Policy and Procedure Oversight
Direct the development, review, and maintenance of all compliance-related policies, procedures, and standards of conduct. Ensure policies are effectively communicated and integrated into business operations.
Risk Assessment and Mitigation
Conduct comprehensive, ongoing compliance risk assessments to identify, analyze, and prioritize key risks. Develop and implement effective mitigation strategies and internal controls to manage these risks.
Monitoring and Testing
Oversee a proactive compliance monitoring and testing program to assess the effectiveness of internal controls, ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, and identify areas for improvement. Report findings and recommend corrective actions to senior management.
Training and Communication
Champion a culture of compliance by developing and delivering engaging and effective compliance training programs for all employees, from new hires to the Board of Directors. Ensure clear and consistent communication on compliance matters throughout the organization.
Reporting and Governance
Prepare and present clear, concise, and insightful compliance reports to the CEO, executive management, and the Board of Directors’ Audit and Risk Committees. Provide expert guidance on emerging compliance trends and their potential impact on the business.
Investigations
Oversee the confidential investigation of potential compliance violations, whistleblower reports, and other ethical concerns. Ensure timely and thorough resolution and, where necessary, implement corrective action plans.
Team Leadership and Mentorship
Lead, manage, and develop a high-performing team of compliance professionals. Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment, promoting professional growth and expertise within the department.
Industry Expertise
Maintain an expert level of knowledge on current and emerging regulations impacting the insurance industry, including those set forth by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), as well as rules pertaining to advertising, sales practices, product development, claims handling, privacy (e.g., HIPAA, CCPA), and anti-money laundering (AML).
Requirements for the Chief Compliance Officer with a Major Insurer – Hartford, CT
The ideal candidate will be a seasoned and respected compliance leader with a proven track record of success within the insurance or a closely related financial services sector. We are seeking a professional with unimpeachable integrity and the executive presence to operate effectively at the highest levels of the organization.
Educational Background
A Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school is strongly preferred. A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university is required.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in a compliance, legal, or risk management function within the insurance industry. At least 7 years of experience in a senior leadership capacity, with demonstrated experience managing a team and interacting with a Board of Directors.
Regulatory Expertise
Extensive knowledge of federal and state insurance laws and regulations is essential. Experience across multiple product lines (e.g., life, annuities, P&C, health) is highly desirable.
Leadership Skills
Proven ability to lead, inspire, and mentor a team of professionals. Must possess strong strategic planning and execution skills, with the ability to translate complex regulations into practical business solutions.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. The ability to articulate complex compliance issues to diverse audiences, from junior staff to board members and external regulators, is critical. Must be a collaborative partner who can build strong relationships across the enterprise.
Analytical Acumen
Superior analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Must be able to identify root causes of compliance issues and develop effective, sustainable solutions.
Ethical Foundation
Must possess the highest level of personal integrity, professional ethics, and sound judgment.
Certifications (Preferred)
Professional certifications such as Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) or other relevant industry designations are a plus.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
Participation in an executive long-term incentive plan (e.g., restricted stock units, performance shares) to reward long-term value creation.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. Robust wellness programs, including an employee assistance program (EAP).
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) retirement plan with a substantial company match and potential profit-sharing contributions.
Work-Life Balance
A competitive paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays. Comprehensive parental leave policies.
Professional Growth
A strong commitment to your professional development, with support for continuing education, industry conferences, and obtaining relevant certifications.
Relocation
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Perks
On-site amenities, flexible work arrangements where applicable, and a culture that values collaboration, innovation, and integrity.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical search. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. We are seeking a leader who can not only ensure compliance but also serve as a strategic business partner. If you have the requisite experience and leadership qualities, we encourage you to apply.
For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners’ Insurance & Risk Management practice page. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the strictest confidence.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. They celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
