We aim to create a sense of security in an uncertain future

Pension and insurance solutions are a vital part of SEB’s customer offering and play a central role in building long-term customer relationships. Joakim Bähr, who leads the Distribution unit within Life & Pension, has worked in the pension and insurance sector for many years. Over time, he has developed deep insights into both market needs and the processes that shape a modern distribution organisation. He shares his experiences, his perspective on SEB, and the opportunities available in the field.

– I began my career with a degree in business and economics, but ever since, my professional life has revolved around two core areas: sales and the pension industry. I find my work incredibly rewarding, both the dialogue with customers and the opportunity to lead others. It is inspiring to see what can be achieved by developing teams, driving performance, and making the necessary adjustments to take new steps forward. 

What does your role as Head of Distribution within Life & Pension entail? 

As Joakim reflects on his journey, it becomes clear how his extensive experience in sales and pensions has laid a strong foundation for his current role. He explains how SEB’s distribution organisation is structured. 

– SEB’s distribution of life insurance solutions is a unique combination of internal distribution through the bank branches and via insurance brokers. In addition, several advisors on my team are responsible for maintaining dialogue with large corporate groups that require pension and insurance solutions for different categories of employees. The internal distribution is handled by advisors who provide guidance on pension and insurance products to all types of customers, both corporate and private, from the smallest to the largest. Here, my team carries significant responsibility for supporting them through training, project management, offer development, communication, as well as extensive sales support and sales methodology  

How would you describe the work culture at SEB? 

– When I started working at SEB, I noticed that a large number of people had been with the company for a long time. To me, that is clear evidence of a stable workplace where people genuinely enjoy their work. SEB takes care of its employees and offers a wide range of career paths, giving people the opportunity to grow within the company. I have also been met with openness and curiosity since I started working here, which I really appreciate. 

What do you enjoy most about your work? 

– Firstly, SEB’s position as both a bank and an insurance provider enables us to offer a comprehensive range of services to our customers, which we can effectively deliver through our well-established distribution channels. Additionally, I am passionate about developing teams and motivating individuals to achieve their targets. I also enjoy being able to help our customers. As life expectancy increases and the pressure on the pension system grows, our mission is to help individuals and companies build long-term financial stability. We truly make a difference.

What opportunities are there within distribution in Life & Pension? 

– Within our distribution function there is a fantastic opportunity to grow and develop your business acumen. We work with complex sales, both through direct contact with large global end customers and via external sales channels such as insurance brokers, as well as our internal team. This creates an environment where you can grow within sales and driving initiatives. The roles are broad and offer opportunities to deepen expertise within one’s area whilst still sharing a common foundation with the rest of the team. There is a genuine need for candidates that want to grow within this dynamic and exciting environment.