VP, Field Compensation

New York Life•New York, NY

7d•$250,000 - $300,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Head of Field Compensation is responsible for leading and evolving the Agent and Field Management Compensation and Field recognition. Reporting to senior Field Experience leadership, this role combines direct oversight of Field Compensation, Agent Compensation, and Field Compensation Operations. The role is responsible for the strategic design, governance, administration, and modernization of compensation programs that support the field. This role ensures compensation strategies align with business objectives, drive sales performance, attract and retain top talent, and maintain regulatory and financial compliance. The VP partners closely with Senior Leadership, Human Resources, Finance, Legal/Compliance, and Executive Leadership to develop competitive and scalable compensation structures that motivate performance while balancing profitability and organizational goals.

Requirements

10+ years of progressive experience in compensation, incentive design, sales compensation, or related functions.
5+ years of leadership experience managing teams and enterprise-level compensation programs.
Experience within financial services, insurance, wealth management, or highly regulated industries.
Deep expertise in field or sales compensation strategy and administration.
Strong analytical, financial modeling, and problem-solving skills.
Knowledge of compensation regulations, governance practices, and risk management principles.
Excellent executive communication and stakeholder management skills.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or MBA preferred.
Certified Compensation Professional (CCP) or related certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead the development and execution of field compensation strategies for Agent and Field Management.
Design incentive compensation plans, commission structures, bonuses, recognition programs, and rewards frameworks aligned to business priorities.
Evaluate compensation effectiveness through analytics, benchmarking, and market trends.
Recommend and implement enhancements to drive growth, productivity, retention, and employee engagement.
Ensure compensation programs remain competitive within the industry and aligned with organizational philosophy.
Establish governance frameworks and controls for field compensation programs.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and industry regulations, internal policies, and risk management standards.
Partner with Legal, Compliance, and Audit teams on compensation-related reviews and reporting requirements.
Oversee documentation, plan communications, and compensation approval processes.
Manage compensation budgets, forecasting, accruals, and expense modeling.
Analyze compensation trends, productivity metrics, and financial impact of incentive programs.
Oversee compensation administration processes, systems, and operational workflows.
Ensure timely and accurate payment of incentives.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives and automation opportunities within compensation systems and processes.
Lead vendor relationships and technology enhancements related to compensation platforms.
Serve as a strategic advisor to senior leadership on compensation-related matters.
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing compensation team.
Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and operational excellence.