Corporate Transformation Director

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Corporate Transformation Director/Lead, to lead strategic transformation initiatives across our business. This role requires a seasoned, hands-on professional with deep subject matter expertise across core insurance business functions, including distribution, operations, underwriting, claims, and customer experience. The ideal candidate will be a trusted advisor and change agent, capable of driving innovation, process re-engineering and cultural transformation, in a complex fast evolving environment. This role reports to the Chief Transformation Officer and is responsible for advancing the change and transformation agenda across the organisation. Position Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership • Partner with senior leaders to define and translate enterprise strategy into actionable roadmaps and initiatives. • Lead cross-functional programs that drive measurable business outcomes, including operational efficiency, customer-centricity, and innovation. • Provide subject matter expertise, including industry best practices and thought leadership to drive transformation initiatives across the business • Working with PICs in researching key trends (markets, products, business, and technology) and conducting ongoing market & business analysis to support decision-making & identify new growth & transformational initiatives to further drive customer & operational success. Process Re-engineering & Innovation • Identify and implement opportunities for process optimization and automation across functions and business. • Design and implement scalable solutions using lean, agile, and design thinking methodologies, aimed at improving distributor, customer and employee experiences. Change Management • Champion a change mindset across the organisation, fostering agility, innovation and culture of continuous improvements. • Develop and execute change management strategies to ensure adoption and sustainability of transformation initiatives. Performance & Value Delivery • Establish KPIs and success metrics to track progress and impact. • Ensure timely delivery of transformation programs with clear ROI and stakeholder alignment. Stakeholder Engagement • Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to foster collaboration and buy-in. • Act as a trusted advisor to business leaders, providing insights and recommendations. Accountabilities (Individual/Shared) • Strategic Alignment of Projects: Ensure project objectives align with strategic priorities and portfolio goals, including validating scope and expected outcomes during intake and planning phases. • Risk and Issue Management: Escalate risks and issues that may impact delivery or strategic outcomes. They collaborate on mitigation strategies and contingency planning. • Stakeholder Engagement and Communication: Ensure consistent messaging and updates across stakeholder groups. Influence communication plans and engagement strategies to maintain alignment and support. Required Qualifications: • Deep understanding of insurance business models, distribution, operations, and regulatory environments. • Experience across multiple functions such as underwriting, claims, distribution, and customer service. • Proven track record in leading large-scale transformation programs, with hands-on experience managing complex programs. • Strong background in process re-engineering, digital enablement, and operational improvement, with view on emerging trends in insurance. • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to translate strategy into execution. • Data-driven decision-making and performance measurement. • Exceptional communication and influencing skills. • Ability to lead through ambiguity and drive cultural change. • Expertise in managing complex, multi-stakeholder programs. • Proficiency in project management tools and methodologies (Agile, Lean Six Sigma, etc.). Preferred Qualifications: • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in business, Strategy, Engineering, or related field (MBA preferred). • 10+ years of hands-on experience in transformation, strategy, or consulting roles within insurance or financial services. • Experience working in regional or global environments with diverse teams. • Stakeholder management: effectively collaborate & work alongside senior members of the organization within both local and regional capacities to drive the successful execution of transformation initiatives. • Communication: excellent speaking and writing skills are required to convey key messages in a succinct manner. • PowerPoint, Word and Excel: Advanced skills on PowerPoint with the ability to tell a story and sell a message. Can analyze large quantities of data, generate charts in Excel. • Ability to translate what the data is saying into applicable and useful information. • Knowledge of enterprise PMO, PMO governance • Project management: experience executing projects by developing deliverables timelines and effectively managing stakeholders. PMP, Management of Portfolios (MoP) and/or Agile qualifications are preferred but not a must have. When you join our team: • We’ll empower you to learn and grow the career you want. • We’ll recognize and support you in a flexible environment where well-being and inclusion are more than just words. • As part of our global team, we’ll support you in shaping the future you want to see About Manulife and John Hancock Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, helping people make their decisions easier and lives better. To learn more about us, visit https://www.manulife.com/en/about/our-story.html . Manulife is an Equal Opportunity Employer At Manulife/John Hancock, we embrace our diversity. We strive to attract, develop and retain a workforce that is as diverse as the customers we serve and to foster an inclusive work environment that embraces the strength of cultures and individuals. We…