Kemper

Location(s)

Chicago, Illinois, St. Louis, Missouri

Details

Kemper is one of the nation’s leading specialized insurers. Our success is a direct reflection of the talented and diverse people who make a positive difference in the lives of our customers every day. We believe a high-performing culture, valuable opportunities for personal development and professional challenge, and a healthy work-life balance can be highly motivating and productive. Kemper’s products and services are making a real difference to our customers, who have unique and evolving needs. By joining our team, you are helping to provide an experience to our stakeholders that delivers on our promises. 

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the Kemper Life division is responsible for shaping the financial strategy and guiding the financial direction of the organization, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability. The CFO will lead and influence key decisions in financial planning, investments, and risk management through detailed, rigorous analysis and forecasting, managing capital and investments, and ensuring regulatory compliance in financial reporting.

The role of CFO for Kemper Life reports directly to the President, Kemper Life division and works alongside the company’s top executives and business partners to align financial strategy with corporate goals, participating in strategic decision-making, and report on financial performance. This strategic financial steward is key in steering Kemper Life division through market changes and economic cycles, positioning the organization for continued success and growth. Serves as a member of the Kemper Life Senior Leadership Team. 

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive financial strategy and operational plans with overall Kemper Corporation and Kemper Life short- and long-range goals to drive profitability and growth.
• Lead the financial analysis and reporting process through evaluating trends and scenario analysis, providing accurate financial reports, and anticipating future needs and challenges.
• Actively manage financial performance by measuring and analyzing results, initiating corrective actions, and minimizing the impact of variances.
• Partner closely with executive leadership and external stakeholders to provide financial insights, advising on strategic decisions, and representing Kemper Life in financial discussions with partners, investors, and/or regulatory parties.
• Manage risks, including financial, underwriting, investment, market, liquidity, and operational risks.
• Provide the oversight of the prioritization and funding of strategic and tactical initiatives based on the alignment with business plans and strategies.
• Partners effectively with product line leaders and other senior executives to support Enterprise initiatives.
• Accountable for leading the Kemper Life Finance function and staff in financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes to support organizational goals.
• Lead the development and growth of an engaging environment for Kemper Life Finance staff that promotes professional learning and development. 

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field; Master’s degree or CPA preferred
• 10+ years of progressive executive leadership experience in the Life Insurance and/or Financial Services industry or related experience; actuarial experience or leading actuarial functions, preferred
• Experience leading in a senior management position (Senior Vice President or higher), preferred, preferably in the Life Insurance industry
• Strong understanding of actuarial science, risk management principles, and/or insurance financial reporting
• Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary and matrix teams
• Solid GAAP and financial reporting technical skills, including working knowledge of Long-Term Duration Targeted Improvements (LDTI) requirements
• Results-oriented and disciplined approach to achieving financial and business objectives, leveraging a high level of financial acumen
• Experience with and exposure to various operational disciplines to ensure that CFO organization effectively communicates between functions and captures all required information for downstream financial reporting
• Superior communication abilities, both written and verbal, to clearly present ideas and concepts

REQUIRED JOB SKILLS:

• Exceptional problem-solving skills (issue identification, problem structuring, analysis, development of actionable recommendations) as well as experience in leading implementation of recommendations.
• Must be detailed with excellent organizational and time management skills. Good interpersonal skills and high sense of urgency.
• Prior success and experience in managing change in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to effectively manage and encourage professional development of direct reports.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading, influencing, and building relationships of mutual respect across the organization at all levels.
• Experience with executive management and board-level presentations and decision-making processes.
• Analytical and strategic mind-set.

Kemper is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, disability status or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. We are committed to supporting diversity and equality across our organization and we work diligently to maintain a workplace free from discrimination. 

Kemper does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Kemper and Kemper will not be obligated to pay a placement fee.

Kemper will never request personal information, such as your social security number or banking information, via text or email. Additionally, Kemper does not use external messaging applications like WireApp or Skype to communicate with candidates. If you receive such a message, delete it. 

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