About The Geneva Association
The Geneva Association (GA) is the international think tank of the insurance industry and the only global association of insurance companies; its members are insurance and reinsurance CEOs. Established in 1973, the GA has achieved an international reputation for high-quality and forward-looking research on key trends shaping or impacting the insurance industry.
Job purpose
The Director of Research is responsible for leading the Geneva Association's research agenda, ensuring that it aligns with the organisation's mission to provide forward-thinking insights into insurance and risk management. This role involves directing, mentoring and managing the research team, producing high-quality research publications, and reinforcing the organisation’s position as a thought leader in the insurance industry and among its stakeholder communities.
The Director of Research reports to the Managing Director.
This position is based out of The Geneva Association’s office in the heart of Zurich, combining in-office and remote work. The role requires some international travel (approximately once per month).
Activities and responsibilities
Leadership and strategy
Develop and implement the research agenda in alignment with the Geneva Association's mission.
Lead the research team, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
Stay abreast of global trends in insurance, risk management, and related fields to ensure the research agenda remains relevant and impactful.
Provide input to the organisation’s broader strategy as needed, i.e. in addition to research: communications, outreach, other matter
Research publications:
Oversee the planning and execution of research projects.
Ensure the production of high-quality, evidence-based research reports, issues papers, and articles.
Review research methodologies, ensuring academic rigor and relevance to the industry.
Stakeholder engagement
Collaborate with GA member companies, including senior executives, to identify key areas of interest and research needs, and share findings of GA research.
Contribute to and possibly lead in convening annual meetings of GA stakeholder groups, including cultivating contacts, developing agendas and identifying speakers.
Proactively engage with known and new external stakeholders such as academics or other think tanks for potential research collaborations.
Represent the Geneva Association at conferences, seminars, and other industry events.
Team management and development:
Direct, manage and mentor the team of researchers, providing guidance, feedback, and professional development opportunities.
Qualifications
Education: Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in economics, finance, insurance, risk management, or a related field.
Experience:
- At least 10 years of experience in research, with a focus on insurance, risk management, or related fields.
- Proven track record of managing a research team and delivering impactful research through publications.
- Experience in engaging with senior industry leaders.
Skills:
- Strong leadership and strategic thinking abilities.
- Solid analytical and synthesis skills.
- Outstanding writing skills in English.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills in English.
- Ability to translate complex research findings into actionable insights.
- Strong network within the academic and professional communities related to insurance and risk management.
Personal characteristics
- Curiosity and creativity
- High level of energy
- Ability to deliver
- Team player
- Agility, ability to adapt
Interested candidates should submit their CV, accompanying cover letter and any relevant publications or research work to:
guido_ziegler@genevaassociation.org