Retail Operations Leader - Sequel

The insurance industry is evolving, and SIAA is excited to drive this evolution. As the premiere agent alliance, we have created the strongest network where independent insurance agencies can accelerate their growth by accessing diverse products from the most reputable carriers available. We make a difference in people’s lives by helping them build successful careers and businesses, and when we achieve this for our member agencies, our strategic partner carriers, and for our internal team, the potential for our collective success is unlimited.

Leveraging the strength and experience from our network’s success, we are excited to launch Sequel Insurance Agencies, powered by SIAA. Sequel Insurance Agencies is a growing network of independent insurance agencies focused on people, process, technology, and data to create an exceptional client experience. If you’re looking to be part of a rapidly growing, forward-thinking organization committed to distinguishing themselves from the rest, consider us.

Sequel Insurance Agencies has a new opportunity for a Retail Operations Leader. This role will be responsible for helping to drive the operational excellence and strategic vision of Sequel across all office locations.  This includes working closely with all retail acquisitions and their leadership teams on all aspects of Sequels “intentional integration” process.  Additionally, the Retail Operations Leader will evaluate new technologies, analyze, review and standardize all workflows and standard operating procedures (SOP’s) and work with VA firms to gain economies of scale for future growth.

The Retail Operations Leader will be part of the Sequel Senior Leadership Team and will also work closely with the EVP of Retail Development to drive organizational strategies and achieve financial goals.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement strategies to optimize operational efficiency, streamline processes, and improve overall performance
• Identify and implement best practices and modern technologies to enhance operational effectiveness and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
• Act as liaison between Sequel and acquired firms’ personnel, building and maintaining positive relationships.
• Manage the “intentional integration” of acquired firms by working closely with leadership and account management teams to drive operational excellence.
• Monitor adherence to service standards through Key Performance Indicator (KPI) reporting
• Collaborate with senior leadership to identify growth opportunities, drive innovation, and enhance operational capabilities.
• Produce and monitor various monthly reports to ensure all policies have been renewed in a timely manner, invoicing is completed in accordance with Best Practices, review team members open items, workloads and backlog.
• Develop and implement a formal audit process to make sure that all required workflows and SOPs are being followed. 
• Monitor the performance of vendors based on turnaround time, quality of information, accuracy of information and pricing in order to recommend to Management on taking a decision for renewal or cancellation of contracts with respective vendors
• Assesses the quality of information/data within the agency management system and work with respective teams to validate and clean up as necessary.
• Participate and represent Sequel in different industry forums, committees and activities relating to retail insurance i.e. Applied Net
• Monitor market trends and competitive landscape to identify potential risks and opportunities.
• Responsible for establishing minimum operational standards for all retail offices and monitoring results
• Travel regularly to each satellite office to advance agency initiatives
• Other duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• In depth knowledge of agency management system functionality, workflow procedures, sales and service processes
• Sets priorities and manages workflow to ensure efficient, timely and accurate processing of transactions and other responsibilities.
• Ability to evaluate and make decisions, recognize potential hazards, and observe appropriate precautions.
• Skill in working with teams at all levels of a retail organization.

• Ability to clearly and effectively communicate with external contacts as well as employees of all levels within the organization.
• Exceptional written, oral communication and presentation skills.

• Innovative and entrepreneurial mindset, motivational abilities, and the ability to find and retain talented employees.
• Strong analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to develop and adhere to a budget consistent with organizational objectives.

• Ability to exercise considerable judgement and discretion in establishing, building, and maintaining effective working relationships.  
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret financial reports, legal documents, and contracts. 
• Ability to analyze root causes of issues and develop comprehensive solutions.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.

• Ability to keep commitments and always use good judgement.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong interpersonal skills, including collaboration, influencing and negotiation skills.
• College degree preferred; MBA (or similar degree) desired.
• Professional qualifications/insurance licenses as required by the Company or ability to secure within a reasonable timeframe.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in insurance brokerage, with a minimum of 5 years in a operations leadership capacity.
• Position requires a high degree of financial acumen with an understanding of the insurance brokerage industry, people development and management, change management, and business strategy.
• Excellent leadership skills with a proven ability to implement a corporate strategy on a local basis.
• Proven track record of retail M&A and integration.
• Ability to act as a Sequel brand ambassador in the market.

• Travel on a national level will be required on an as needed basis.

Sequel Insurance Agencies is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants will receive considerations for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, veteran status, and any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local anti-discrimination laws.

Sequel Insurance Agencies participates in E-Verify.