UK Export Finance (UKEF) is the UK’s export credit agency and a government department that reports to the Secretary of State for International Trade. Our vision is to be the best export credit agency in the world and our mission is to advance prosperity by ensuring no viable UK export fails for lack of finance and insurance, doing that sustainably and at no net cost to the taxpayer. UKEF’s work is varied and complex, spanning a wide range of sectors, business sizes and geographical territories. We operate in all corners of the world, primarily in developing markets.

After six successful years in post, the current Chief Executive, Louis Taylor, is moving to head up the British Business Bank, and a replacement is now sought. The Chief Executive is responsible for providing strategic and operational direction to the organisation, ensuring UKEF deliver against its vision, mission, and the ambitions set out in its Business Plan. The Chief Executive will be a role model for all UKEF staff, operating with the highest standards of propriety and ethics, and setting the standard for leadership.  Externally, the Chief Executive will be an ambassador for the organisation, representing and promoting UKEF nationally and internationally. In undertaking their role, the Chief Executive will retain the trust and confidence of key stakeholders including the UKEF Board, HM Treasury, UK Government Investments (UKGI) and ministers.

Whilst UKEF is not strictly a regulated business, the Chief Executive will be responsible for ensuring that there are robust controls and measures in place, and a strong culture of compliance, broadly in line with equivalent regulated private sector financial institutions. Priorities for the incoming Chief Executive will include ensuring UKEF meets its financial objectives related to the total value of business underwritten, premium income generated, and customer support; delivering against the organisation’s high-level vision and annual operating plans; providing leadership to over 500 staff in the UK and overseas, developing high performing, expert, engaged and inclusive teams across the breadth of the organisation and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, with a relentless focus on customers.

The successful candidate will have deep experience and a proven track record of presenting at board level within a financial services environment, combined with a strong understanding of credit and new product development. They will have had substantial exposure to international trade/finance, across a wide range of markets and sectors. Personal qualities should include excellent stakeholder management skills, outstanding leadership credentials and the ability to communicate effectively at all levels. The Chief Executive will be expected to champion diversity and inclusion, ensuring all staff are given the opportunity to flourish in an environment where they feel supported, valued and included.

The closing date for applications is 23:59 on 11th September 2022.

UKEF has retained Russell Reynolds Associates to advise on this appointment. For further information about the position and additional details on qualifications, requirements, terms and conditions of service and how to apply, please visit: www.rraresponses.com

UKEF is committed to diversity throughout the organisation, and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.