Director, Strategic Initiatives - Data, AI, Automation and Platform

The Canada Life Assurance Company • Toronto, ON

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a Director of Strategic Initiatives to support our Data, AI, Automation and Platforms (DAAP) organization. In this role, you will play a critical part in translating enterprise vision into clear, actionable strategies, enabling effective decision-making, and driving cross-functional execution to deliver on key business priorities. Reporting to the SVP, Data, AI, Automation & Platforms, you will partner closely with senior leaders across Technology and the broader enterprise to ensure alignment, strategic clarity, and measurable progress on high-impact initiatives.

Requirements

• 8 years of professional work, with at least 5 years in strategy, planning, or related roles (industry-agnostic)
• Strong relationship-building, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to work across functions, manage competing priorities, and operate effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Strong analytical and synthesis skills, with the ability to clearly communicate insights to diverse audiences
• Sound professional judgment, high respect for confidentiality, and a strong sense of ownership

Nice To Haves

• Experience in management consulting, technology, or the insurance/financial services sector is an asset, but not required

Responsibilities

• Partner with Technology leaders and enabling functions to drive clarity, alignment, and progress against Technology and DAAP priorities
• Support the development of technology strategies and multi-year plans aligned to business and DAAP objectives
• Translate executive vision into clear, actionable strategies, proposals, and points of view
• Provide cross-functional leadership and establish effective governance practices across DAAP
• Ensure visibility, tracking, and reporting of strategic priorities and KPIs to support decision-making
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and operational excellence
• Deliver executive-ready, decision-focused briefing materials and insights
• Provide timely updates on strategic developments across Canada Life and LifeCo
• Offer ad hoc analysis and insights to support executive decision-making
• Plan and lead leadership forums, including DAAP leadership meetings, offsites, and executive visits
• Support the creation of a high-performance, inclusive, and forward-looking culture
• Stay current on emerging technology and industry trends and support executive briefings as needed

Benefits

• Career Development: Opportunities for career advancement, access to industry-leading learning programs and up to $2,000 annually towards education reimbursement.
• Health & Wellness: Flexible health and dental benefits, plus a $5,000 mental health benefit to support your well-being.
• Time Off: In addition to regular vacation and personal days, we support community involvement with a volunteer day.
• Financial Security: Company-matching pension plan, share ownership program and additional investment options.
• Rewards and Recognition: Employee recognition programs, service milestone celebrations, employee discounts and more!
• Emphasis on Community: We provide a workplace where employees feel connected and supported through Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), mentorship programs, social clubs and events.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed