Role Description

Symetra is seeking an AVP, Operations and Strategic Solutions to help build and advance digital and operational capabilities for our Independent Marketing Organization (IMO) channel.

In this role, you will guide roadmap planning, prioritization, and execution for IMO digital initiatives. You’ll work closely with cross-functional partners to define requirements, support testing, and ensure operational and risk considerations are integrated into decision-making. You will also serve as a key operational leader, shaping strategy and ensuring smooth delivery of critical initiatives.

What you will do

• Strategy
  • Manage and optimize customer and agent/advisor experiences to align with organizational goals.
  • Partner with the VP of Service & Operations to define strategic direction and drive execution.
  • Set and communicate department goals to support alignment and performance.
  • Foster collaboration across teams within Service & Operations and with key business partners.
  • Represent Service & Operations in product development, sales initiatives, and cross-functional projects.
  • Sponsor high-visibility initiatives and ensure effective delegation and delivery.
  • Lead multiple projects and initiatives to successful completion.
• Business Leader for the RD Ecosystem
  • Collaborate with Product, Distribution, Compliance, Operations, and other stakeholders to develop and maintain the initiative roadmap, emphasizing risk reduction and operational efficiency.
  • Oversee sequencing, scope, and prioritization of roadmap elements.
  • Guide requirements definition and test plan approvals.
  • Communicate regularly with stakeholders and provide input on pacing and delivery.
  • Serve as a key decision-maker, applying a holistic operational and risk-focused perspective.
• People Development
  • Lead and develop managers to build high-performing, empowered teams.
  • Support staffing, training, coaching, and development efforts across teams.
  • Assess staffing levels to ensure appropriate resource allocation.
  • Promote a culture of continuous improvement.
• Tactical Execution
  • Ensure service-level targets are achieved, including call center responsiveness, processing turnaround times, and claims accuracy.
  • Oversee adherence to procedures, legal requirements, and compliance standards.
  • Manage audits and follow-up actions.
  • Represent Retirement as needed for claims-related litigation matters.
  • Lead process improvement efforts and deliver presentations to senior leadership.
  • Manage multiple budgets and communicate variances effectively.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of industry experience with proven leadership.
• Proven experience with annuities and retirement products within the IMO channel required.
• Demonstrated ability to lead through senior functional leaders and deliver large-scale initiatives.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to simplify complex topics and influence executives.
• Experience working with external partners and supporting strategic negotiations.
• Experience with agile software delivery teams and driving capabilities at a strategic and tactical execution level.
• Change leadership experience with an ability to drive change through effective communication and collaboration.
• High school diploma required; bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Ability to travel as needed.

Benefits

• Flexible full-time or hybrid telecommuting arrangements.
• Plan for your future with our 401(k) plan and take advantage of immediate vesting and company matching up to 6%.
• Paid time away including vacation and sick time, flex days and ten paid holidays.
• Give back to your community and double your impact through our company matching.

Compensation

Salary Range: $141,600-$236,000 plus eligibility for annual bonus program and long-term incentive plan.