Director, Retirement Plans

About the role

The Director, Retirement Plans is a strategic program leader responsible for driving the vision, direction and optimization of Sun Life's retirement and savings plans portfolio. The scope of accountability includes 401(k)/RIA Plan with $2B+ in assets, closed Defined Benefit Pension Plan with $250M in assets, qualified Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), and Nonqualified Plans. This role requires deep analytical capabilities to translate complex data into actionable insights, independent judgement to develop compliant and sound plan strategies, and strong people leadership to build and mentor a high-performing team. The Director will champion operational excellence and regulatory compliance, leveraging best practices and emerging technologies to ensure plan integrity while enhancing the participant experience. How you will contribute: As a member of the Total Benefits Leadership team, drive the strategic direction of Sun Life's retirement and savings plans in alignment with business objectives and long-term organizational goals. Oversee the operations of all retirement and savings plans ensuring adherence to plan documents, federal, state, and local regulations, including ERISA compliance. Lead data-driven decision-making by developing meaningful analytics, translating complex data into strategic insights and actionable recommendations that optimize plan design, reduce costs, and improve participant outcomes. Independently develop high-quality presentations and business cases that communicate complex retirement plan concepts clearly to executive leadership and key stakeholders. Cultivate and manage partnerships with key plan vendors and advisors by negotiating contracts, ensuring accurate plan administration and benefit calculations, and driving continuous improvement in service delivery, employee communications, and cost management. Champion continuous improvement and process optimization by identifying operational inefficiencies, designing, documenting, and implementing streamlined processes, and leveraging emerging technologies and tools to increase team productivity and reduce manual work. Build and cultivate a high performing team by providing coaching, continuous feedback, knowledge sharing, and targeted development opportunities. Liaise with other departments such as Treasury, Payroll, Tax, Compensation, and Legal to ensure proper plan operations, including compliance notices and documents. Collaborate with Finance and vendor partners to ensure financial accuracy of plans and oversee annual retirement plan audits. Manage semi-annual ESPP enrollment process including participant communications and facilitation of the purchase of shares. Proactively stay current on legislative changes, regulatory guidance and industry best practices to ensure programs remain compliant and competitively positioned. Lead large-scale projects and change initiatives, including company integrations, with a focus on stakeholder engagement, seamless implementation, risk management, and operational excellence. What you will bring with you: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent work experience 10+ years of experience in managing retirement plans for a mid-size to large organizations, with a strong focus on innovative solutions, employee experience and financial management Proven ability to effectively lead and develop teams Deep expertise in qualified and nonqualified retirement plans (DC and DB), ERISA, and state and tax benefit laws Experience with mergers and acquisitions a plus Solid knowledge and understanding of HR programs and connections Action-oriented, focused on execution, improving employees' experience through continuous improvement, and operational excellence Excellent interpersonal/communications skills with the ability to effectively communicate complex concepts in simple terms to retiring executives and others Ability to build effective partnerships within the Company Excellent project management and planning skills including the ability to lead, plan, and organize complex assignmen

Benefits

Additional Information

Sun Life U.S. is one of the largest providers of employee and government benefits, helping approximately 50 million Americans access the care and coverage they need. Through employers, industry partners and government programs, Sun Life U.S. offers a portfolio of benefits and services, including dental, vision, disability, absence management, life, supplemental health, medical stop-loss insurance, and healthcare navigation. We have more than 6,400 employees and associates in our partner dental practices and operate nationwide. Visit our website to discover how Sun Life is making life brighter for our customers, partners and communities. Job Description: Sun Life embraces a hybrid work model that balances in-office collaboration with the flexibility of virtual work. Our team members and leaders are expected to foster connection and teamwork by being present in the office at least 2 days per week.

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