Job Description
:Role Summary
The AVP, Advisor Effectiveness is a strategic leadership role responsible for developing and executing comprehensive programs, training, and initiatives that drive SLFD advisor growth, productivity, and success. As the owner of the advisor effectiveness strategic plan, you will shape onboarding, training, and developing advisors across all career stages—from new advisors to experienced professionals and business builders—with the goal of building thriving, holistic advisor practices.
In this role, you will monitor competitive landscapes and emerging industry trends to develop innovative, strategic responses that position our advisors for success. You will partner closely with field leaders, the Business Growth team, and internal key stakeholders to create recognition programs and strategic initiatives that align with Sun Life's values and drive meaningful results.
This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on advisor performance in both insurance and wealth, directly supporting Sun Life's strategic priorities while enabling our advisors to deliver exceptional holistic financial planning to their clients. If you are a strategic thinker with strong leadership capabilities and a passion for developing talent and driving business growth, this role provides an exciting opportunity to shape the future of advisor effectiveness at Sun Life.
What will you do?
Advisor Growth & Effectiveness
Own the Advisor Effectiveness Strategy, monitoring competitive environments and developing strategic responses
Lead the development and execution of Sun Life’s key training program to drive advisor growth and productivity across all segments
Lead the progression and execution of Sun Life’s Advisor Business Organizations Team (ABOS) to expand advisor teaming and business growth
Partner with Business Growth teams to oversee advisor programs that drive growth and productivity
Relationship Management
Build and maintain strong partnerships with key stakeholders across Distribution and broader Sun Life for cross BU work
Develop strong relationships across Sun Life Canada to support the growth of Group, GRS and Wealth within SLFD.
Must have deep understanding of field leadership, SLFD advisors, and have key relationships with both leaders and advisors.
Partners with field leaders and selected advisors to enable and grow the developing advisor segment
Participate actively in recruiting and onboarding high-profile external advisors
Advisory Council Management
Facilitate and coordinate Sales Force Advisory Council meetings
Manage council relationships and election processes
Leadership & Team Development
Lead and develop team of 20 professionals (direct and indirect reports)
Ensure consistent performance management, coaching, and mentoring practices
Provide strategic direction, coaching and mentorship to the team’s seasoned leaders
What do you need to succeed?
Experience & Skills
Progressively responsible experience leading and implementing business strategies
Extensive experience in advisor distribution channels
Knowledge of complex advisor models and teaming structures
Proven leadership and general management capabilities
Strong business acumen and financial services industry knowledge
Strategic mindset with tactical execution abilities
Excellent influencing, communication, and relationship management skills
Comfortable with ambiguity and change
As this position is posted in several locations, we specify that bilingualism (French, English, both oral and written) is required for Quebec only for the frequent interactions with English and French-speaking colleagues or internal partners across Canada or worldwide.
Qualifications
University degree, or equivalent professional experience, preferably in business
LLQP (Life License Qualification Program) is nice to have
Mutual Fund License is nice to have
CFP and CLU Designations is nice to have
Working Conditions
Frequent business travel required to Kitchener-Waterloo, Toronto York, and Sun Life Financial Centres
Additional travel for industry conferences, training sessions, and recognition events
Standard office environment with fast-paced, strategic focus
Add a line on building strong relationships across Sun Life Canada to support the growth of Group, GRS and Ensure Wealth within SLFD.
What’s in it for you?
A competitive salary and bonus program, based on market scale
A flexible group insurance program starting on your first day of work to meet your needs and those of your family.
Our Share Ownership Program gives you the opportunity to invest in Sun Life while benefiting from employer matching contributions.
We are proud to be included in Great Place to Work's 2025 list of Canada's Best Workplaces.
A warm, supportive, and inclusive culture.
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