AVP, Enterprise Architecture and Technology

RLI Insurance•Peoria, IL

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

We’re not like other insurance companies. From our specialty products to our business model, our culture to our results — we’re different. Different is who we are, and how we work, interact, deliver and succeed together. Creating a different and better insurance experience doesn’t just happen. It takes focus and a shared passion for going beyond the expected to forge relationships and deliver care that makes a difference. This approach rises from and is supported by our talented, ethical and smart team of employee owners united around a single purpose: to work alongside our customers and partners when they need us, in unexpected ways, with exceptional results. Apply today to make a difference with us. RLI is a Glassdoor Best Places to Work company with a strong, successful background. For decades, our financial track record has been stellar — a testament to our culture and validation of our reputation as an excellent underwriting company. Position Purpose The AVP, Enterprise Architecture and Technology will lead the visioning, planning and directional execution of our technology strategy and ensure the alignment of our technology vision with business goals. They will have a deep understanding of current and emerging technologies, a strategic mindset, and the ability to lead, mentor and inspire technology professionals, including software engineers, business analysts, and architects; while also establishing connections, credibility, and influence with business leaders across the enterprise. The AVP, Enterprise Architecture and Technology will ensure that the company is staying current with P&C and Surety business trends, as well as overall technology trends, and will collaborate and lead discussions with technology teams and business leaders to gather diverse insights that inform cost-effective technology designs and execution strategies. This role will provide leadership which fosters agility, innovation and efficiency in our implementations.

Requirements

Typically requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field
12+ years of relevant experience
Insurance knowledge a preferred [OR] equivalent level of education and experience
In-depth understanding of P&C and Surety business lines and dynamics is preferred
Solid understanding of cybersecurity that includes the ability to incorporate appropriate practices and patterns in architectural designs and frameworks
Strong foundation in data management as a function of architecture design and implementation
Demonstrated experience of leading and influencing technology and governance initiatives across diverse teams and technology ecosystems
Excellent strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of technology and business stakeholders
Strong knowledge of regulatory and compliance requirements in financial services industry settings
Proven experience leading technology strategies in a complex organization with diverse products and customers

Nice To Haves

Certification in technology architecture frameworks such as TOGAF, FEAF, Zachman, preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop a comprehensive long-term technology vision that recognizes legacy realities and supports a flexible future, in alignment with business goals, direction and external technology and process influences.
Guide and mentor a diverse team of technology professionals, that both report directly and indirectly, to foster a culture of continuous learning, growth and improvement
Establish and administer technology standards and best practices to ensure enterprise-wide consistency, speed-to-market improvements, quality and compliance with security, regulatory and audit requirements.
Lead the adoption and maintenance of architectural frameworks that support efficient, scalable and cost-effective technology solutions.
By keeping current with emerging technologies and trends, lead the identification, evaluation and implementation of technologies and processes that enhance the organization’s capabilities and competitiveness.
Collaborate with Project Management teams to help foster continual incorporation of best practice processes.
Establish and maintain strong relationships with key vendor / partners, including ongoing understanding and documentation of their strategies and roadmaps, and using that information to inform RLI business and IT opportunities and direction.

Benefits

Annual bonus plans
Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)
401(k) — automatic 3% company contribution
Annual 401k and ESOP profit-sharing contributions (Up to 15% of eligible earnings)
Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
Paid volunteer time off (VTO) to support our communities
Parental and family care leave
Flexible & hybrid work arrangements
Fitness center discounts and free virtual fitness platform
Employee assistance program
Comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits
Flexible spending and health savings accounts
2x base salary for group life and AD&D insurance
Voluntary life, critical illness, & accident insurance for purchase
Short-term and long-term disability benefits
Training & certification opportunities
Tuition reimbursement
Education bonuses