Job Description

Overview:

Looking for a Program Manager/ Cluster Head

with minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in portfolio, program, or project management, with a significant focus on the

insurance domain and managing portfolios that include software development, digital, and Quality Assurance (QA) projects.

Responsibilities:

Portfolio Delivery Management:

+ Define, manage, and optimize the overall program and project portfolio within the insurance domain,

including software development, digital transformation, and Quality Assurance projects

, ensuring strategic alignment and effective resource allocation. + Monitor portfolio performance across all project types (software, digital, QA), identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies to ensure successful delivery.
+ Provide regular reporting and insights on portfolio health, progress, and financial performance to executive leadership and key stakeholders.
+ Demonstrate a deep understanding of financials, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost management across the entire portfolio.
+ Actively contribute to and lead efforts in developing comprehensive proposals for new business opportunities or strategic initiatives.

Large-Scale Transformation Leadership:

+ Lead and oversee large, complex transformation programs within the insurance landscape,

with a strong emphasis on technology-driven changes including core insurance software implementations, digital customer experiences, and robust QA strategies

, driving significant change and innovation. + Ensure the successful execution of these programs from initiation to closure, meeting scope, budget, and timeline objectives.
+ Navigate intricate organizational structures and interdependencies to facilitate seamless program delivery.

People Leadership & Development:

+ Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of more than 50 professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement across software development, digital, and QA disciplines. + Responsible for performance management, career development, and talent retention within the portfolio team.
+ Promote a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages growth and innovation.

Stakeholder & Customer Engagement:

+ Serve as a primary point of contact for key internal and external stakeholders, including senior executives, business leaders, and external partners. + Engage directly and in a face-to-face capacity with customers, understanding their needs related to software, digital solutions, and quality assurance, managing expectations, and ensuring solutions meet their requirements.
+ Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with all stakeholders, effectively managing expectations and communications.

Communication & Influence:

+ Possess exceptional written and verbal communication skills, capable of articulating complex information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences. + Influence decision-making at all levels, leveraging strong negotiation and persuasion abilities.


Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Insurance, Computer Science, or a related field.
Master's degree (MBA) or relevant professional certifications (e.g., PMP, PgMP, SAFe, Prince2) are highly preferred.
Essential skills:

Experience:

+ Minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in portfolio, program, or project management, with a significant focus on the

insurance domain and managing portfolios that include software development, digital, and Quality Assurance (QA) projects.

+ Proven experience in

leading large transformation programs

from inception to successful completion, especially those with a strong technological component.
+ Demonstrated experience in

people management

, specifically leading and developing a team of

more than 50 people

.
+ Extensive experience working in a

face-to-face role with customers

, understanding their needs and building strong client relationships.
+ Solid background in working on and contributing to business proposals.

Skills & Knowledge:

+ Deep and comprehensive understanding of the insurance industry, including its products, processes, regulatory environment, and market dynamics. + Strong grasp of software development lifecycles (SDLC), digital product development, and QA methodologies.
+ Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
+ Proven ability in

stakeholder management

, negotiation, and conflict resolution.
+ Strong financial acumen with a clear understanding of budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting.
+ Excellent problem-solving abilities and a strategic mindset.


Proficiency in portfolio management tools and methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall, SAFe).