Vice-President, Insurance Distribution (Waterloo)

Job Description: Vice President, Insurance Distribution Overview The Vice-President Insurance Distribution plays a critical role in leading Retail Advice and Solutions wholesale/independent insurance distribution ecosystem across Canada. Reporting to the SVP, Distribution and Channel Management, the leader in this role unifies strategy and execution across: (1) thirdparty distribution partnerships (MGAs, national accounts, national alliances), (2) regional field leadership responsible for MGA and National Account productivity, (3) High Net Worth (HNW) advisor growth and sales effectiveness, and (4) advisor market development and practice management support models. The VP, Insurance Distribution is accountable for defining the distribution operating model, partner value proposition(s), and field enablement standards to drive profitable growth, consistent advisor experience, and strong risk and regulatory outcomes. This leader will partner closely with other leaders in Retail Advice and Solutions, Operations, and Sun Life Global Investments. In addition, the leader in this role serves as an executive representative with distribution partners, regulators and industry bodies and ensures governance for partner programs (e.g., marketing allowances, compensation/incentives, and strategic initiatives) supported by clear performance management, financial discipline, and controls. Main Accountabilities The leader in this role is integral to the overall success of the Distribution and Channel Management leadership team and as a member of the D & CM leadership team, will be accountable for: Setting the distribution strategy and growth agenda across partner segments, regions, and product mix; translate business goals into priorities, targets, and executable plans. Leading third-party partnerships and external representation (MGAs, national accounts, alliances), including evaluation of potential new relationship opportunities, governance, and engagement with regulators / industry bodies. Driving regional field performance and advisor growth by leading regional sales, setting productivity expectations, ensuring effective coverage/cadence, and advancing HNW and priority segment strategies. Building sales effectiveness and practice capability through onboarding, training, coaching models, and advisor practice management/market development programs (education, events, business planning). Enable end-to-end execution, governance, and talent by aligning cross-functional partners, designing sustainable partner programs (marketing allowances, incentives), championing product/proposition evolution, and ensuring operational excellence, risk management, and leader development. Leadership Scope Drive and develop a high performing, diverse team with a robust focus on organizational effectiveness and talent development. Leads leaders across partner management, regional sales (RVP/field leadership), enablement, advanced planning, HNW sales effectiveness, advisor market development/practice management, coordination support, and strategic business risk functions. Accountable for growth and productivity outcomes across independent distribution partners, regional sales organizations, and priority advisor segments (including HNW), with direct impact on profitability, company image, and advisor experience. Owns senior executive relationships with key distribution firms; frequent travel required to support partner engagement and regional execution. Requirements Undergraduate degree required; advanced degree in management or related field is an asset. 15+ years of progressive leadership experience within financial services distribution, including 5+ years leading senior leaders in a large/complex organization. Deep expertise in individual insurance distribution; strong understanding of advisor practices, channel economics, and market segmentation/trends (including HNW). Proven track record in sales management and delivering growth/productivity targets through teams and partner ecosystems. Demonstrated experience designing and governing partner programs (e.g., marketing allowances, incentives/compensation, strategic initiatives) with strong financial discipline. Experience engaging regulators and industry associations/committees; strong risk mindset and ability to execute governance and controls. Professional designations (e.g., CFP, CLU) are preferred. Bilingualism (English/French) is an asset. Core Competencies Enterprise leadership, strategic thinking, and ability to translate strategy into measurable execution. Exceptional relationship-building and influencing skills with partners, advisors, internal stakeholders, and executives. Strong business and financial acumen; ability to quantify market potential and manage trade-offs. Operational excellence and program governance (controls, risk management, and compliance orientation). Talent development, coaching, and building high-performing, geographically distributed teams. Apply on Kit Job: kitjob.ca/job/2pvg1b