AVP, Data Analytics & Insights – Canadian Operations

Sun Life • Waterloo, ON

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The AVP, Data Analytics for Canadian Operations represents a strategic opportunity to lead and transform the data analytics function for Canadian Operations. This role will develop and execute a comprehensive data analytics strategy that drives operational excellence, efficiency, and competitive advantage across all Canadian operational areas. Reporting to the VP, Transformation & Enablement, the successful candidate will lead a team of ~50 data professionals to deliver world-class business intelligence, advanced analytics, and data-driven insights that optimize operational performance, improve client experience, and enable data-informed decision-making across the enterprise. This position balances strategic vision with operational execution - building new capabilities while transforming existing data foundations and analytics practices to meet the evolving needs of a modern, digitally-enabled Operations organization.

Requirements

• Minimum 10 years relevant business, data, and analytics experience
• University degree in Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related discipline and/or equivalent combination of education/experience
• Proven experience leading data analytics functions delivering measurable business value
• Experience in operations, business process management, or service delivery environments preferred
• Experience managing and transforming data infrastructure and analytics capabilities
• Track record of leading high-performing teams of professional knowledge workers
• Strong understanding of data analytics concepts (predictive analytics, machine learning, AI)
• Deep knowledge of business intelligence tools, platforms, and best practices
• Experience with data governance frameworks and data quality management
• Familiarity with operational metrics, performance management, and process optimization
• Knowledge of statistical analysis, modeling techniques, and quantitative methods
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop long-term vision while executing tactical priorities
• Stakeholder Management: Skilled at building relationships and influencing across all organizational levels
• Communication Excellence: Exceptional ability to translate complex data insights into clear, compelling narratives for executive audiences
• Change Leadership: Proven ability to lead teams through transformation with minimal disruption
• Problem Solving: Creative and critical thinking to address complex business challenges
• Business Acumen: Strong understanding of business drivers, operational dynamics, and financial impact
• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively across multiple teams, functions, and geographies
• Results Orientation: Track record of delivering measurable business outcomes through analytics

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in quantitative field an asset
• Professional certifications in data science, analytics, or business intelligence an asset
• Experience working in financial services, insurance, or regulated industries an asset
• Bilingualism (French, English, both oral and written) is required for Quebec only

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain comprehensive data analytics strategy aligned with Canadian Operations objectives, balancing quick wins with long-term capability building
• Evaluate and prioritize analytics opportunities to maximize business value and drive thought leadership in data-driven problem solving
• Partner with Sun Life Canada’s Client Experience Office to align with overall Canada data and analytics strategy
• Establish metrics and KPIs to measure analytics function performance and business impact
• Maintain existing data infrastructure while leading transformation initiatives to modernize architecture and adopt cloud-based solutions
• Implement robust data governance framework ensuring quality, accuracy, compliance, and audit-proof processes for internal and external stakeholders
• Develop and enforce standards for data management, documentation, and controls
• Lead BI function delivering timely, actionable insights through operational dashboards, scorecards, and trending reports
• Manage reporting intake and prioritization from diverse stakeholders while creating self-serve analytics capabilities for power users
• Transform complex operational data into clear visualizations supporting executive reporting and strategic planning
• Partner with Data Science team in CXO and other analytics partners to leverage common capabilities and drive innovation.
• Apply AI, machine learning, and predictive modeling to operational challenges, proactively identifying automation and optimization opportunities
• Develop and operationalize predictive models for capacity planning, volume forecasting, and demand management
• Lead, coach, and develop diverse team, fostering high-performing culture focused on collaboration and innovation
• Provide proactive career development, attract top analytics talent, and build team capabilities to deliver on strategic objectives

Benefits

• Pension Plan participation starts immediately, and you are automatically enrolled.
• We help you save more with Sun Life automatic and matching contributions and by including both your salary and bonus when making contributions.
• Flexible Benefits from the day you join to meet the needs of you and your family.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager