From Wealth to Insurance Leadership

Mufazzal Kajiji stepped into the CEO role at Zurich International Life in the Middle East in June 2022, bringing over 25 years of banking and finance expertise. Previously Head of Mashreq Gold at Mashreq Bank and leader in retail banking at Noor Bank, his career spans Citibank, Standard Chartered, and First Gulf Bank, focusing on wealth management, digital transformation, and risk strategies. This transition marked a strategic pivot, leveraging his skills to drive Zurich’s growth in a rapidly evolving insurance landscape.​

Blending Heritage with Innovation

Kajiji emphasizes Zurich’s 150-year legacy as a foundation of trust, vital in the Middle East where reputation drives business. Yet, he pushes for agility, integrating AI for customer chatbots, precise risk assessments, and personalized underwriting. Operating across UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, and partnerships in Saudi Arabia and Oman, Zurich provides over $58 billion in life cover and employee benefits. Kajiji views AI as key to enhancing satisfaction while honoring the firm’s stability.​

CEO Challenges and Leadership Philosophy

As his first CEO position, Kajiji describes it as a “fulfilling journey” demanding holistic oversight and long-term strategic depth. Unlike prior roles, it requires personal investment in every decision, fostering growth amid pressures. Inspired by Simon Sinek’s Leaders Eat Last, he cultivates collaboration, inclusivity, and empowerment, prioritizing honesty and positive impact on teams. His style adapts to needs, ensuring colleagues thrive in Zurich’s dynamic environment.​

Future Growth in Middle East Insurance

Kajiji eyes unprecedented regional expansion, fueled by economic diversification and tech adoption. Zurich aims to lead in domestic life insurance and benefits, capitalizing on his bancassurance and Islamic banking knowledge. With a focus on customer-centric innovation, the firm blends global scale with local insights, targeting sustained momentum through 2026 and beyond. His leadership positions Zurich as a transformative force amid industry shifts.