From Brazil to Houston with SCOR

Employee Spotlight 

(Re)insurance inherently is an international industry. To maintain stability and ensure the ability to pay claims, companies need portfolios diversified with risks from around the world. This global scope creates opportunities for international mobility within the industry. One such opportunity allowed Jimmy Pimentel to move from Brazil to the US, fulfilling his dream of living abroad in a country full of potential.

A dream years in the making

Jimmy’s fascination with living abroad began over a decade ago when he spent time in California pursuing an associate’s degree. Though he eventually returned to Brazil to complete a degree in civil engineering and start his career, the dream of one day returning to the US and the professional opportunities awaiting never left him.

“I always had it in the back of my mind: one day, I’m going to go back. It took me ten years, but I finally did,” he recalls.

And the way he did it was through his role at SCOR.

Jimmy’s career path through SCOR

Jimmy first joined SCOR in Brazil in April 2020, where he was responsible for overseeing underwriting operations for a vast region, including Central America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America.

“It was a global opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” Jimmy says. “At my previous company, I was focused mainly on Brazil. SCOR gave me the chance to think globally and act locally.”

After proving himself over nearly three years in Brazil, senior leaders helped pave the way for an international transfer. What started as a discussion about Jimmy’s dream of relocating to the US eventually turned into an offer to take over operations from one of SCOR’s US offices when a local role became available.

Making the move: challenges and support

Moving countries is never easy and relocating with a family adds a new layer of complexity. Jimmy says that SCOR supported him every step of the way and showed flexibility. Initially, the plan was to move Jimmy to the New York office, but an alternative offer to relocate to Houston proved to be a better fit for his family – a preference SCOR was happy to accommodate.

“SCOR didn’t just offer me a job, but they gave me the tools to restart my life in another country,” Jimmy explains. The company provided a fully equipped house upon arrival, covered relocation and visa costs, offered a three-year tax assistance package, and even supplied credit cards and allowances to navigate the lack of a US credit history.

“When you move, you’re not just changing jobs, you’re resetting your entire life. You feel like you’re starting from zero,” Jimmy says. “Thanks to SCOR, we landed after a nine-hour flight and arrived in a new house with everything ready: we could sit down to a hot meal that morning. That meant everything.”

Crossing borders for personal and professional development

Besides fulfilling his personal dream, the move paid off professionally as well. Jimmy managed to expand SCOR’s power business in Latin America and in June 2025, he celebrated a significant milestone: becoming Vice President, Senior Property/Power Underwriter at SCOR US.

“I never imagined I’d go this far, this fast. Every year has brought a new, great surprise,” he says. “And it’s all thanks to the opportunities SCOR gave me.”

Jimmy’s journey showcases the international possibilities within the reinsurance industry. It’s a field where ambition can take you across continents if you’re willing to put in the work and step outside your comfort zone.

“My advice? Don’t be afraid to share your goals. Let people know you want to grow globally,” Jimmy says. “I was lucky to have mentors who listened – but you have to speak up first.”

He also emphasizes the importance of preparing for the realities of moving: “It’s not just a new job. It’s a new life. Be ready for challenges, especially if you’re moving with family. But if you stick with it, the rewards are huge.”

Today, Jimmy’s role at SCOR is a platform to live the life abroad he always dreamed of. “I love working here. I love the people, the culture, the support,” he says. “Looking back, if I hadn’t joined SCOR, my life would be completely different. I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

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