Operational Risk Innovation - Spring 2027 Co-op

Sun Life•Wellesley, MA

8d•Hybrid

About The Position

Sun Life is seeking a motivated and innovative co-op student to help modernize U.S. Operational Risk programs through artificial intelligence, automation, data analytics, and process improvement. The role focuses on simplifying processes, improving user experiences, enhancing reporting and insights, and using emerging technologies to reduce manual effort. The co-op will work with leaders responsible for Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM), Operational Resilience, Business Continuity, and Crisis Management to design and implement practical solutions that improve efficiency, risk management practices, and organizational resilience. The role offers exposure to applying AI and automation to business challenges and contributing to strategic initiatives with enterprise-wide impact. This is a full-time Spring 2027 co-op running from January 4, 2027, through June 18, 2027. It follows a hybrid work model, with 1–2 days per week in the Wellesley, Massachusetts office during business hours; virtual work is available in the contiguous states and Alaska. Projects may include developing an AI-powered risk knowledge assistant; creating TPRM analytics dashboards; modernizing business continuity planning tools; building a crisis-management information hub; and identifying and implementing process automation opportunities across Operational Risk programs.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in Computer Science, Data Analytics, Information Systems, Business Analytics, Engineering, Business Administration, Risk Management, or a related field.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to learn new technologies and concepts quickly.
Curiosity, creativity, and a passion for solving business problems.
Interest in artificial intelligence, automation, process improvement, or digital transformation.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Microsoft 365, Copilot, Power BI, Power Apps, or Power Automate.
Experience working with data analysis, reporting, or dashboards.
Exposure to AI, machine learning, data science, or automation technologies.
Experience documenting processes or developing workflow solutions.
Interest in risk management, operational resilience, business continuity, or related disciplines.

Responsibilities

Identify opportunities to apply AI, automation, and digital solutions to Operational Risk processes.
Prototype and test AI-enabled tools using Microsoft Copilot and related technologies.
Research emerging technologies and evaluate practical use cases for Operational Risk programs.
Support development of knowledge assistants, search tools, and self-service solutions that improve access to information.
Assist in establishing best practices for responsible AI use within Operational Risk programs.
Analyze existing processes to identify opportunities to reduce manual effort, eliminate duplication, and improve user experience.
Document current-state and future-state processes, workflows, and requirements.
Support implementation of workflow and automation solutions using Microsoft technologies such as Power Automate, Power Apps, SharePoint, and Microsoft 365.
Participate in solution testing, implementation, and continuous improvement activities.
Develop process documentation, user guides, and training materials.
Design and develop dashboards, reports, and visualizations to improve decision-making and program oversight.
Analyze Operational Risk program data to identify trends, improvement opportunities, and operational insights.
Support automated reporting solutions that reduce manual effort and improve data quality.
Assist with executive presentations and management reporting.
Support transformational initiatives across Third-Party Risk Management, Operational Resilience, Business Continuity, Crisis Management, Disaster Recovery, and Operational Risk Governance.
Improve risk and resilience reporting, develop AI-enabled knowledge management solutions, enhance stakeholder self-service resources, streamline assessment and governance processes, and identify efficiency and automation opportunities.