Job Description

CEO - LIFE RE/INSURANCE - BERMUDA - 10% TAX - HR125
About this opportunity
Our client is an insurance-tech group establishing a new life insurance company in Bermuda. We are seeking a founding CEO who will be solely responsible for leading the entire venture from ground-zero through to successful licensing and commercial launch. This is a hands-on, builder role requiring a unique blend of deep regulatory expertise, strategic vision, and operational execution skills.
The ideal candidate will have a proven, verifiable track record of successfully securing a full (re)insurance license for Long-Term business from the relevant regulatory authority and building the subsequent operational infrastructure.
Key responsibilities:

• Lead the entire BMA license application process as the primary point of contact and responsible officer
• Prepare and submit all required documents (Business Plan, Capital Model, P&P, etc.) in strict adherence to the BMA's Supervisory Principles (SPMs)
• Structure the company's capital solution and oversee the initial capitalization process
• Establish the Bermuda legal entity, and design the corporate governance framework (Board, committees)
• Build trusted relationships with key local stakeholders, including the BMA, legal counsel, auditors, and corporate service providers
• Develop and articulate the company's long-term vision, product strategy, and market positioning
• Recruit, hire, and lead the founding team across all critical functions: Actuarial, Underwriting, Finance, Risk, Compliance, and Operations
• Oversee the selection and implementation of all core operational systems (policy administration, claims, etc.)
• Establish a robust risk management and compliance culture that meets the highest standards of the Bermuda regulatory environment
• Develop and manage the annual budget, ensuring financial discipline and sustainability from inception
• Serve as the primary liaison between the Board and the company's operations, providing transparent and regular reporting on progress, risks, and performance
• Act as the external face of the company to investors, reinsurance partners, and potential distribution channels (e.g., private banks, family offices)
• Foster a high-performance, collaborative, and ethical work culture

What you'll need

• An advanced degree (e.g., MBA) or professional designation (e.g., FIA, ASA, CFA)
• A minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in the life insurance industry, including direct, hands-on experience in successfully leading the application for and obtaining a full insurance license from the BMA for a new or growing entity
• Proven experience as a founder, founding CEO, or a similar C-level builder role (e.g., COO, CFO) with P&L responsibility, demonstrating the ability to build a company or significant business unit from the ground up
• Deep, authoritative understanding of Bermuda's insurance regulatory framework (SPMs) and a established professional relationship with the BMA
• Exceptional strategic planning and financial management skills, including expertise in capital modelling, investment strategy, and building realistic business plans for a start-up insurer
• Fluency (verbal and written) in both Mandarin Chinese and English is mandatory to effectively liaise with the parent company and Bermuda regulators/partners
• Experience in the specific target market(s) for the company, such as High-Net-Worth life insurance, annuities, or cross-border business

How to apply

• To apply, attach your resume or include a link to your LinkedIn profile
• If you don't provide one of the above, we can't progress your application

For reasons of confidentiality and to ensure best match for positions, our normal practice is to submit applications to employers only after we have had a Career Consultation with candidates. In the event that you are not shortlisted for this particular vacancy, your details will be held on file and considered for other relevant opportunities.
Our clients are equal opportunity employers and value diversity. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. If you believe you deserve an exceptional career, we'll help make it happen.

Skills Required