You are as unique as your background, experience and point of view. Here, you’ll be encouraged, empowered and challenged to be your best self. You'll work with dynamic colleagues - experts in their fields - who are eager to share their knowledge with you. Your leaders will inspire and help you reach your potential and soar to new heights. Every day, you'll have new and exciting opportunities to make life brighter for our Clients - who are at the heart of everything we do. Discover how you can make a difference in the lives of individuals, families and communities around the world.

Job Description:

The Director of Operational Excellence is responsible for driving continuous improvement, operational efficiency, and business transformation across Distribution and Channel Management (D&CM). Partnering with senior leadership and business units, this leader works to implement sustainable business growth across channels through enhanced advisor and Client processes and capabilities.

Please note this role requires regular presence at our Toronto One York and/or Waterloo King offices.

Summary of the role

Reports to AVP, Operations Enablement and Improvement in Distribution and Channel Management (D&CM)​Accountable for identifying, analyzing and implementing strategic operational improvement initiatives across D&CM value streams​Lead the ongoing efforts to implement a cross-channel client movement program that enables the D&CM Growth Strategy and supports key compliance and regulatory needs of the business​Continue to develop and implement the D&CM Client Segmentation strategy to better align Client and advisor relationships, increasing productivity and enhancing the Client experienceAct as the Distribution lead for the SLF Advisor Benefits plan and Errors and Omissions insurance, ensuring proper governance and operational practices are documented and followedAccountable for SLFD Clients in Motion program including monitoring of operational processes and controlsLead the cross-business unit SLFD Service Improvement forumSupport SLFD regional leadership teams with expense management analysis and insights

Summary of accountabilities

Lead various D&CM programs and initiatives often acting as a SME or business owner on key work streams within broader Enterprise programsPeople leadership accountabilities include management of direct reports, coaching and developing team members, and providing guidance to teams to consistently maintain high levels of integrity, motivation and moraleIdentify and implement administrative / operational policies, practices and controls for D&CM operational teams at times including training and on-going developmentMonitor business trends / identify opportunities and lead strategic initiatives that build capabilities across D&CM operations functionManage key partnerships with areas such as Legal, Compliance, Finance, Distribution Compensation, RA&S Digital Enterprise team and other business units to identify, business case, prioritize and implement opportunities.

Summary of leadership & management competencies

Facilitate workshops and working sessions to co-create solutions with stakeholders.Proven leadership skills and experience managing operational teamsResults orientation with demonstrated partnership skills across various stakeholdersExperience in developing and improving processes with ability to manage change effectivelyStrong business acumenProven ability to apply analytical skills in problem resolutionStrategic thinker with creative problem-solving skillsStrong relationship building with influencing and negotiation skillsStrong collaboration skills including listening and facilitation skillsExcellent communication skills, both verbal and writtenSolid project management skillsAbility to work independently with a strong achievement motivation and organizational skills

What do you need to succeed

10+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, process improvement, or business transformation.Demonstrated track record of delivering measurable improvements in efficiency, service, and cost savings.Experience leading cross-functional projects and working at the executive level.University degree in Business or Operations preferredLean Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent certification strongly preferred.

The Base Pay range is for the primary location for which the job is posted. It may vary depending on the work location of the successful candidate or other factors. In addition to Base Pay, eligible Sun Life employees participate in various incentive plans, payment under which is discretionary and subject to individual and company performance. Certain sales focused roles have sales incentive plans based on individual or group sales results.  

Diversity and inclusion have always been at the core of our values at Sun Life. A diverse workforce with wide perspectives and creative ideas benefits our Clients, the communities where we operate and all of us as colleagues. We welcome applications from qualified individuals from all backgrounds.

Persons with disabilities who need accommodation in the application process, or those needing job postings in an alternative format, may e-mail a request to thebrightside@sunlife.com.

We are proud to be a hybrid organization that offers our employees the choice and flexibility to work from both the office and virtually based on the needs of the business, our Clients and you! Several work options are available and can be discussed throughout the selection process depending on the role requirements and individual needs.

We thank all applicants for showing an interest in this position. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Salary Range:

105,000/105 000 - 180,000/180 000

Job Category:

Sales - Distribution Support

Posting End Date:

14/09/2025