Head of Expense and Project Management

Are you a finance leader with robust analytical and quantitative skills, strong organisational abilities and able to influence senior stakeholders?

We are recruiting for the newly established role of Head of Expense and Project Management, reporting to the Group Head of Planning and Performance Management within Group Finance. 

In this key position, you’ll manage teams in Zurich and Krakow, overseeing the allocation and governance of Zurich’s multi-billion dollar annual direct expense spend and leading the performance management of our diverse project portfolio.

If you are ready to make an impact and thrive in a dynamic, international environment, we look forward to your application.

What you will do

• Manage Zurich’s annual global direct expense spend, ensuring efficient resource allocation to support business growth and maintain world-class efficiency standards.
• Collaborate with senior management across the organization to align expense management with strategic objectives.
• Set demanding but achievable expense targets for business units and group functions and proactively manage performance against these targets throughout the year.
• Lead the approval, governance, and ongoing performance management of Zurich’s diverse project portfolio, including regulatory projects, IT enhancements, and business expansion initiatives.
• Oversee a project portfolio amounting to several hundred million dollars annually, ensuring effective prioritization and execution.
• Partner closely with the Project Management Office within Global Technology and Operations and business stakeholders to ensure projects are efficiently structured for successful execution, supporting approval by the Group CFO.
• Manage and develop a geographically distributed team based in Zurich and Krakow.
• Foster strong communication, collaboration, and best practices across teams and functions.
  
  

What you bring

• Masters degree (or equivalent) in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, and 15+ years of experience in related field (ideally a qualified accountant).
• 5 years of experience in a CFO or controlling positions (is desirable).
• Proven expertise in expense management, budgeting, and financial controlling.
• Experience in managing large-scale budgets and expense allocations is essential.
• Strong understanding for Insurance or Financial industry.
• Strong business acumen with demonstrable experience of influencing senior stakeholders.
• Passion for innovation and applying the latest technology solutions.
• Experience of running high performing teams distributed across multiple locations.
  
  

Additional Information

We look forward to receiving your online application. 

At our Quai Zurich Campus, our culture and our people are what set us apart. We thrive on face-to-face interactions that drive collaboration, nurture our unique culture, and amplify our success. Enjoy the best of both worlds with the flexibility to work up to two days remotely per week within Switzerland, allowing you to balance personal commitments while excelling in your career. Please discuss your flexibility needs with us during your interview.


Information for recruitment agencies

Zurich does not accept any applications from recruitment agencies for this position. We refuse any responsibility for unsolicited applications as well as any associated fees. 

Why Zurich

At Zurich, we like to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. We take an optimistic approach by focusing on the positives and constantly asking What can go right? 

We are an equal opportunity employer who knows that each employee is unique - that’s what makes our team so great! 
Join us as we constantly explore new ways to protect our customers and the planet.
 

• Location(s):  CH - Zürich 
• Remote working: Hybrid
• Schedule: Full Time
• Recruiter name: Natalia Dzieglo