Overview
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) Specialty is a key leadership role focused on driving operational excellence and transformational change within Specialty. Reporting to the UK & EMEA COO, the role oversees operational strategies, resource management, and transformation initiatives, including Novidea implementation and partnerships with Gallagher Centre of Excellence (GCoE). The COO advises the Specialty CEO, facilitates decision-making, and ensures alignment with the company’s strategic vision, Target Operating Model and regulatory standards. As a Senior Manager under the FCA’s SMCR regime, the role collaborates with senior leaders, stakeholders, and third parties to deliver business plans, achieve financial targets, and support the effective execution of the business strategy. How you'll make an impact Lead high-performing teams, fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Align talent with business needs and bridge the gap between sales and delivery. Advise senior leadership on operational priorities and represent operations in key initiatives. Develop and execute strategies to drive growth, efficiency, and revenue. Translate strategic goals into actionable plans and improve systems and processes. Partner with leadership to achieve the company’s vision and operational objectives. Drive innovation through advanced tools and technology to enhance efficiency and client experience. Oversee the implementation of the Novidea platform and associated operational models. Lead change management efforts to ensure smooth transitions and measurable results. Establish governance frameworks and manage operational risks effectively. Ensure compliance with Gallagher policies, FCA regulations, and conduct rules. Provide regular updates to leadership on performance, risks, and opportunities. Build strong relationships with stakeholders and promote the Gallagher brand. Foster an inclusive, high-performing culture focused on employee development and retention. Manage budgets and business plans, ensuring alignment with strategic goals. Monitor KPIs to track success and identify areas for improvement. Chair and participate in key committees and forums as required. About You Educated to degree level or equivalent desired. Previously held a Certified role or demonstrates a strong understanding of the requirements. Deep understanding and expertise within the insurance industry, including broking or underwriting. Knowledge of audit practices. Familiarity with FCA regulations. Strong business acumen with a proven ability to enhance operational excellence. Experience in executive operations, processes, and systems with P&L responsibilities in large, complex organizations. Enthusiastic and proactive, contributing to a dynamic and professional operations and sales environment. Significant experience in people development and management. Commercial awareness and risk management expertise. Ability to build rapport, establish credibility, and influence stakeholders at all levels internally and externally. Eligible to work in the UK. Willingness to travel as required. #LI-AM4 Compensation and benefits On top of a competitive salary, great teams and exciting career opportunities, we also offer a wide range of benefits. Below are the minimum core benefits you’ll get, depending on your job level these benefits may improve: Minimum of 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays, and the option to ‘buy’ extra days Defined contribution pension scheme, which Gallagher will also contribute to Life insurance, which will pay 4x your basic annual salary, which you can top-up to 10x Income protection, we’ll cover up to 50% of your annual income, with options to top up Health cash plan or Private medical insurance Other benefits include: Three fully paid volunteering days per year Employee Stock Purchase plan, offering company shares at a discount Share incentive plan, HMRC approved, tax effective, stock purchase plan Critical illness cover Discounted gym membership, with over 3,000 gyms nationally Season ticket loan Access to a discounted voucher portal to save money on your weekly shop or next big purchase Emergency back-up family care And many more…