Recognition Modernization Manager (Waterloo)

Job Description: This is an 18 months contract position This role is focused on modernization and transformation of Sun Life Recognition & Rewards ecosystem. It is accountable for leading future state design, modernization, systems readiness, and implementation to enable simpler programs, stronger governance, scalable processes, modern backend reporting systems, and steady state operation of recognition programs. The scope of this position is intentionally forwardlooking and transformationoriented , with emphasis on design, enablement, and longterm sustainability of recognition practices. The role operates in close partnership with existing recognition operations and stakeholders while concentrating on the design, enablement, implementation, and operation of the targetstate model within a 1218 month horizon. This role requires a highly resilient leader who is comfortable navigating ambiguity, change, and competing priorities while influencing across teams and levels. What will you do? 1. Recognition Program Modernization Lead the redesign and evolution of advisor and field leader recognition practices to improve simplicity, clarity, scalability, and consistency. Identify legacy program structures, policies, and processes that create operational burden, risk, or poor customer experience, and design futurestate alternatives. Partner with Sales leadership to align recognition models with evolving business strategy and advisor segmentation. Develop clear program frameworks, design principles, and decision criteria to support longterm sustainability. 2. Systems & Reporting Transformation Leadership Act as the business lead for recognition readiness related to backend reporting and systems transformation. Define futurestate business requirements, data definitions, and controls for recognition programs in partnership with Analytics, IT, Finance, and Risk. Translate recognition logic (qualification rules, calculations, and eligibility) into systemready, testable requirements. Ensure robust governance, reconciliations, and documentation are established to support system migration and reporting integrity. 3 . Process, Governance & Control Design Design futurestate governance models, process controls, and documentation standards to ensure audit readiness and regulatory compliance. Establish repeatable intake, prioritization, and decisionmaking frameworks for recognition initiatives. Develop playbooks, reference materials, and operating artifacts that enable consistent application of futurestate recognition practices. 4. Change & Stakeholder Leadership Lead change management efforts related to recognition modernization and systems enablement. Engage and influence leaders, partners, and subjectmatter experts across Distribution, Analytics, Finance, Risk, Compliance, and IT. Communicate clearly on timelines, dependencies, tradeoffs, and risks associated with modernization initiatives. 5. Capability Building & Knowledge Enablement Build internal capability through documentation, standards, and knowledge transfer related to modernized recognition practices. Reduce reliance on undocumented legacy knowledge by creating clear, accessible futurestate artifacts. Support alignment across teams by clarifying principles, rules, and design intent for recognition programs. What do you need to succeed? Direct involvement in businessled systems, reporting, or data transformation initiatives. Experience operating in environments with legacy processes, technical debt, or complex stakeholder dependencies. Exceptional resilience, composure, and ownership in ambiguous and evolving environments. Strong program design, analytical, and problemsolving skills. Ability to influence without direct authority across complex stakeholder groups. Comfort navigating competing priorities, imperfect information, and evolving business needs. Strong customer and leader orientation balanced with governance discipline. 6+ years in recognition, incentives, compensation, sales programs, or adjacent business operations. What will be nice to have: Recognition and incentive program design principles. Data, reporting, controls, and audit readiness concepts. Advanced Excel and strong documentation / process design skills. Experience translating business rules into clear system requirements. University degree in Business, Finance, Economics, HR, or a related field. Whats in it for you? Were proud to be a Best Workplace for Hybrid Work by Outstanding Place to Work Canada Be part of our continuous improvement journey in developing the next greatest digital enterprise experience that is united by our Purpose: to help Clients and Employees achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. Flexible Benefits from the day you join to meet the needs of you and your family. Pension, stock and savings programs to help build and enhance your future financial security. Apply on Kit Job: kitjob.ca/job/2p19do