Regional Manager, Francophone Region

Job Summary

Lead the growth and performance of the Company’s business across designated Francophone markets, translating corporate strategy into profitable business opportunities, strong client relationships, and effective regional operations. Based in Rwanda, the Regional Manager will provide commercial and operational leadership to regional teams, strengthen the Company’s market presence, and build relationships with cedants, brokers, regulators, and strategic partners. The role requires a commercially astute insurance professional who can combine market insight, disciplined execution, and people leadership to deliver sustainable results

Requirements

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Regional Strategy and Performance

• Develop and execute regional business plans aligned with the Company’s strategic priorities, growth targets, and risk appetite.
• Translate regional priorities into clear market targets, team objectives, and measurable performance indicators.
• Monitor business performance, identify gaps, and implement timely actions to improve results.
• Advise senior management on market opportunities, competitive developments, and emerging risks across the region.

2. Business Development and Market Expansion

• Identify and pursue opportunities to grow profitable business, deepen existing partnerships, and expand the Company’s presence in priority markets.
• Develop a strong business pipeline and lead opportunities from initial engagement through negotiation, closure, and renewal.
• Work with underwriting and other technical teams to develop solutions that respond to client needs while meeting the Company’s commercial and risk requirements.
• Use market intelligence and client feedback to inform business development priorities and strengthen the Company’s competitive position.

3. Client and Stakeholder Relationships

• Build trusted relationships with cedants, brokers, regulators, industry associations, and other strategic stakeholders.
• Lead engagement with key regional accounts, supporting client retention, business growth, and timely resolution of service issues.
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure responsive, consistent service throughout the client relationship.
• Represent the Company at industry forums, conferences, and strategic meetings to strengthen its reputation and visibility.

4. Operational and Financial Management

• Oversee regional operations, ensuring efficient delivery, clear accountability, and alignment with Company policies.
• Prepare and manage regional budgets, monitor expenditure, and take action to improve resource utilisation and financial performance.
• Work with Finance and technical teams to monitor account performance, premium collection, and outstanding balances.
• Identify operational bottlenecks and implement improvements that strengthen service delivery and internal controls.

5. People Leadership and Development

• Lead and develop regional teams, setting clear expectations and promoting accountability for results.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, provide constructive feedback, and support individual development.
• Identify capability gaps and work with People & Culture to address recruitment, learning, and succession needs.
• Build effective collaboration across markets and headquarters, encouraging knowledge sharing and coordinated execution.

6. Governance, Risk and Compliance

• Ensure regional activities comply with applicable regulatory requirements, Company policies, and delegated authority.
• Identify and escalate material business, operational, regulatory, and reputational risks.
• Work with Legal, Risk, Compliance, and other relevant teams to maintain effective controls and resolve compliance issues.
• Uphold ethical business practices and sound judgment in commercial decisions and stakeholder engagements.

7. Reporting and Coordination

• Provide clear, timely reports on regional growth, profitability, business pipeline, client developments, and key risks.
• Present practical recommendations supported by market insights and performance data.
• Maintain effective coordination between regional teams and headquarters to support timely decisions and delivery.

Benefits

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Insurance, Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Management, or a related discipline.
• A relevant professional insurance qualification and/or a master’s degree will be an added advantage.
• At least five years of relevant experience in insurance or reinsurance, with demonstrated responsibility for business development, client management, operations, or team leadership.
• A proven record of winning and retaining business, managing client relationships, and delivering measurable commercial results.
• Experience working across multiple Francophone markets, with a sound understanding of their business practices and market dynamics.
• Knowledge of the Rwandan insurance market and established relationships within Francophone insurance or reinsurance markets will be an added advantage.
• Experience managing teams, budgets, and competing priorities in a multicultural environment.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Commercial judgment: Ability to identify viable opportunities and grow business while balancing profitability, client needs, and risk.
• Insurance and financial acumen: Ability to interpret business performance, understand underwriting considerations, and support sound commercial decisions.
• Negotiation and business closure: Demonstrated ability to negotiate effectively, secure business, and manage renewals.
• Relationship management: Ability to build credibility and maintain good relationships with clients, partners, and industry stakeholders.
• People leadership: Ability to develop talent and hold teams accountable for delivery.
• Market insight: Ability to translate market trends, competitor activity, and regulatory developments into practical business actions.
• Execution and problem solving: Ability to prioritize, resolve challenges, and deliver results across several markets.
• Cultural adaptability and integrity: Sound judgment, ethical conduct, and the ability to work effectively across diverse environments.
• Bilingual communication: Fluency in French and English, with strong written, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.

About Company

ACRE AFRICA

https://zep-re.com/

About Company ACRE Africa empowers farmers across Africa to thrive in the face of climate challenges. We design and implement innovative risk mitigation solutions that protect farmers against risks like droughts, floods, and excessive rainfall. By mitigating these risks, we enable farmers to bounce back from calamities and re-invest in their farms. ACRE Africa’s operations align with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, and SDG 13: Climate Action. Our Mission: We are determined to champion a paradigm shift towards equity, fairness and innovation in the agricultural sector. Through localized solutions that reduce climate-associated risk, we help unlock the full potential of agriculture and inspire a new generation of farmers across Africa. Our Vision To help unlock the full potential of agriculture by eliminating the stress and potential damage of climate variables for farmers across Africa.