Head of Cargo - Singapore

The Head of Cargo is responsible for leading the Cargo and Marine Cargo insurance business, overseeing business development, client servicing, insurer relationships, technical placement, profitability, and regulatory compliance. The role is accountable for driving the growth and performance of the cargo portfolio while ensuring the delivery of high-quality risk solutions and exceptional client service.

The Head of Cargo serves as the subject matter expert for cargo-related risks and works closely with clients, insurers, and internal stakeholders to develop tailored insurance solutions across local and international markets.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute the cargo insurance business strategy in alignment with the company's growth objectives.
• Drive portfolio expansion through new business acquisition and client retention.
• Identify emerging market opportunities, industry trends, and new cargo insurance products.
• Establish and monitor departmental goals, budgets, and performance metrics.
• Enhance the company's market presence and reputation within the cargo and logistics sector.

Business Development

• Lead the acquisition of new cargo and marine insurance business.
• Develop relationships with freight forwarders, logistics companies, importers, exporters, manufacturers, traders, and shipping companies.
• Identify cross-selling opportunities across the broader insurance portfolio.
• Participate in client pitches, tenders, and strategic business presentations.
• Maintain strong relationships with key clients and industry stakeholders.

Technical & Placement Management

• Provide technical expertise on cargo and marine insurance products.
• Oversee the structuring, negotiation, and placement of complex cargo risks.
• Review policy wordings, endorsements, and coverage terms.
• Ensure competitive placement strategies and optimal outcomes for clients.
• Support claims advocacy and resolution for significant cargo losses.

Client Relationship Management

• Act as the senior escalation point for major client matters.
• Ensure high levels of client satisfaction and retention.
• Conduct regular portfolio reviews with key clients.
• Advise clients on changing market conditions, risk exposures, and insurance solutions.
• Develop long-term partnerships with strategic accounts.

Insurer Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with insurers, underwriters, and Lloyd's markets.
• Negotiate pricing, coverage enhancements, and service agreements.
• Monitor insurer performance and market conditions.
• Secure access to specialized cargo products and international market capacity.
• Represent the company at market meetings and industry events.

Operational Management

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the cargo division.
• Ensure timely placement, policy issuance, renewals, and client servicing.
• Drive efficiency and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Implement best practices and standardized operating procedures.
• Monitor service quality and turnaround times.

Financial Management

• Manage the profitability and growth of the cargo portfolio.
• Develop and manage annual budgets and forecasts.
• Monitor revenue, brokerage income, and expense management.
• Analyze portfolio performance and implement corrective actions as required.
• Deliver revenue and profitability targets established by senior management.

Risk, Compliance & Governance

• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory and licensing requirements.
• Maintain adherence to internal governance frameworks and company policies.
• Support internal and external audits.
• Ensure proper documentation and record-keeping standards.
• Promote a strong risk management and compliance culture.

Leadership & Talent Development

• Lead, coach, and develop the cargo broking team.
• Conduct performance reviews and succession planning.
• Foster a collaborative, client-focused, and high-performance culture.
• Identify training and development needs within the team.
• Support recruitment and talent retention initiatives.

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Insurance, Maritime Studies, Logistics, Risk Management, or a related field.
• ACII, ANZIIF, Diploma in Insurance, or equivalent professional qualification preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 12 years of insurance broking experience, including significant cargo or marine insurance expertise.
• Proven track record in cargo insurance placement and client management.
• Experience managing large commercial and multinational accounts.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing teams and business portfolios.
• Strong network within the cargo, logistics, shipping, and insurance markets.

Knowledge & Skills

• Deep understanding of Cargo and Marine Cargo insurance.
• Knowledge of international trade, shipping, logistics, and supply chain risks.
• Strong technical placement and negotiation skills.
• Financial and commercial acumen.
• Excellent stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.
• Leadership, coaching, and team development capabilities.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage complex risks and claims situations.
• Proficiency in English; French language skills would be an advantage