Role Overview:We are seeking a dynamic, growth oriented and experienced Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead our operational functions across the Middle East and Africa region.The ideal candidate will be responsible for driving operational excellence, strategic planning and execution of regional and global organisational priorities, risk management and develop sustained differentiation of the value proposition.Reporting to the CEO, the COO will provide counsel and advice to the Executive Committee on all operational governance matters. This role requires a deep understanding of the Middle East and Africa markets, as well as experience of working with cross-functional teams in a multi-national environment. The COO will collaborate closely with senior leadership to develop and implement operational strategies that enable business growth and profitability and improve the customer and client experience. often requiring partnership across functional leadership and teams.RESPONSIBILITIES:Service Operations Delivery: Responsible for the service experience of MEA customers and clients via day-to-day interactions, monitoring and reporting of service metrics, including ownership of the ME Voice of the Customer program.Strategy & Planning: Oversee the strategy development and articulation of the vision for MEA Operations. Works with regional leads and related matrix partners to develop & design the multi-year roadmap, with plan for execution.Governance and Regulatory Affairs: Oversight of all operational activities, including partner delivery, quality and reporting and liaison with regional regulators, in partnership with compliance and General Manager.Project Leadership: Supports the delivery of MEA Strategic Priorities, to support the long-term vision.Business Continuity Plan: Develops and maintains system disaster recovery plan.Risk Management: Oversee the management of risks to ensure compliance, control of business risks in support of future business growth.Technology: Establish and develop technology initiatives in support of business growth and profitability and to achieve the best possible integration in systems development efforts and operation support.EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE & OTHER REQUIREMENTS:Bachelors Degree required; MBA is preferred.Industry and leadership experience of 10 - 15 years.Experience in leading and influencing in a matrixed environment is critical.Able to travel 25% or more, primarily across the GCC and AfricaCOMPETENCIES:Demonstrate strategic thinking, strategy execution and development.Demonstrate project management skills and success.Ability to foster collaboration, value other perspectives and gain support and buy-in for organizational proposals.Ability to negotiate with peers and senior leaders to come to agree upon and productive solutions to business problems.Ability to drive strategy and organizational design discussions.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Strong business acumen, with proven ability to leverage knowledge base to quickly come up to speed in new business areas and new types of projects.Ability to manage and mentor others. Viewed as a leader and mentor. Sought out for advice and council within and outside of direct team.High level of competency in data analysis and interpretation, leveraging insights to drive informed decision making and operational efficiencies.Proven ability to create and further develop strong relationships with both business and IT leadership.Excellent oral, written and communication skills. Strong Presenting Skills and should be able to deliver and ensure understanding of information regarding current or future state of operation topics across varied audiences including customers, clients, business leaders and staff.Proven ability to work effectively with a multicultural team, fostering collaboration and inclusivity to drive operational success and talent.Strong commitment to talent development, nurturing and empowering team members to reach their full potential and contribute effectively to achievement of organisational priorities.About Cigna HealthcareCigna Healthcare, a division of The Cigna Group, is an advocate for better health through every stage of life. We guide our customers through the health care system, empowering them with the information and insight they need to make the best choices for improving their health and vitality. Join us in driving growth and improving lives.Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, age, disability, sex, childbirth (including pregnancy) or related medical conditions including but not limited to lactation, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital or familial status, genetic information, status with regard to public assistance, citizenship status or any other characteristic protected by applicable equal employment opportunity laws.If you require reasonable accommodation in completing the online application process, please email: for support. Do not email for an update on your application or to provide your resume as you will not receive a response.

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