Head of Information Systems

Job Description

The position leads the Business Analysis, Systems Analysis, Data Delivery, Helpdesk, Testing and Desktop Support functions within Western National Insurance. The role combines insurance domain knowledge, business analysis, technical architecture and vendor management expertise. It serves as a key link between business and technology, ensuring IT solutions support strategic objectives, operational efficiency and service excellence.

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Responsibilities

• IT Strategy and Business Alignment

• Develop and execute short- and long-term IT strategy aligned to business objectives and the Group's strategic direction.

• Advise MANCO and business leadership on technology opportunities, risks and investment decisions.

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, customer experience, automation and data-driven decision-making.

• Technology Delivery and Architecture

  • Lead the design, implementation and continuous improvement of scalable, secure and efficient technology solutions.

  • Oversee software development, systems integration and enterprise technology initiatives.

  • Ensure technology solutions deliver business value and maintain architecture, design and development standards.

• Operational Technology Management

  • Ensure availability, stability, performance and resilience of business systems and infrastructure.

  • Oversee incident management, service delivery and production support.

  • Drive continuous improvement in system reliability, service quality and operational efficiency.

• Data and Information Management

  • Establish and maintain data governance frameworks, standards and controls.

  • Oversee data architecture, quality, reporting and information management.

  • Support data and analytics for decision-making and regulatory reporting, while protecting information integrity, confidentiality and availability.

• Cyber Security, Risk and Resilience

  • Maintain executive oversight of cyber security, information security and technology risk.

  • Ensure disaster recovery and backup capabilities remain effective and fit for purpose.

  • Lead technology risk assessments and mitigation, ensuring compliance with regulatory, governance and security requirements.

• Vendor and Financial Management

  • Manage the IT budget and ensure effective utilisation of technology investments.

  • Oversee technology vendors, service providers and outsourced partners.

  • Negotiate and monitor service agreements to ensure quality, value and risk management.

• Leadership and People Management

  • Lead, develop and mentor the Information Technology team.

  • Build organisational capability through succession planning, coaching and skills development.

  • Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement.

• Governance and Executive Management

  • Participate in MANCO and contribute to business strategy and decision-making.

  • Report on technology performance, key risks, project delivery and strategic initiatives.

  • Maintain IT governance, policies and standards, and ensure audit, risk and compliance obligations are addressed.

Minimum requirements:

• Bachelors degree in Information Systems or related field
• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in a similar role
• Experience managing a complex environment with a strong focus on automation and system integrations
• Demonstrated experience engaging and presenting at MANCO and EXCO level
• Strong vendor and service provider management experience

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Advantageous:

• Experience managing technology vendors, outsourcing arrangements and service delivery agreements
• Experience leading enterprise technology delivery and system integration initiatives
• Experience implementing and managing cyber security, disaster recovery and business continuity capabilities
• Experience establishing data governance, information management and reporting frameworks
• Experience managing IT budgets, technology investments and cost optimisation initiatives
• Experience operating within regulated financial services environments
• Experience leading and developing multidisciplinary technology teams

Competencies required:

• Strong analytical skills and problem-solving skills
• Strong technical skills with a solid understating of infrastructure and integrations
• Solid experience of working within a cloud environment
• Ability to analyse complex problems spanning multiple areas/system
• Driven to implement efficiencies
• Ability to deal with and influence stakeholders at MANCO/ EXCO level
• Determined and persistent / ability to perform well under pressure
• Self-motivated
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team