[Hiring] AVP, Claims Strategy and Process Innovation @Symetra

Role Description

Symetra is seeking an AVP, Claims Strategy and Process Innovation to help shape the future of our Group Benefits Claims organization. This leader will drive claims transformation by modernizing systems, optimizing operations, and advancing innovative solutions that improve customer outcomes and position the business for sustainable growth.

As the AVP, Claims Strategy and Process Innovation, you will serve as a strategic leader focused on transforming disability and absence management operations through technology, process excellence, automation, and data-driven decision making. You will partner closely with Claims, Technology, Product, Compliance, Legal, and Operations leaders to improve business performance, elevate the customer experience, and support enterprise growth objectives.

What You will Do

• Lead the strategy and roadmap for claims transformation, process innovation, and operational excellence.
• Partner across Claims, Technology, Product, Compliance, and Legal teams to deliver scalable solutions that improve efficiency, quality, and customer outcomes.
• Serve as the business lead for major claims system initiatives, including FINEOS enhancements, implementations, and modernization efforts.
• Drive process improvement and automation opportunities that simplify operations and reduce complexity.
• Translate business needs into future-state operating models, technology solutions, and transformational initiatives.
• Establish metrics, governance practices, and reporting frameworks to measure business impact and operational performance.
• Lead organizational readiness efforts, including change management, stakeholder engagement, communications, and adoption strategies.
• Leverage data and operational insights to identify opportunities, solve business challenges, and improve claims outcomes.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and industry trends to ensure the organization remains competitive and positioned for future growth.
• Influence strategic priorities and investment decisions through strong partnerships with executive leadership.
• Build and develop high-performing teams while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Modern, scalable claims capabilities that support business growth.
• Simplified processes and increased operational efficiency through automation and innovation.
• Successful adoption of new technologies and business processes.
• Improved customer, claimant, and employee experiences.
• Strong partnerships across business and technology functions.
• Measurable improvements in productivity, service quality, and operational performance.
• A culture that embraces innovation, change, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of leadership experience in disability, absence management, employee benefits, or claims operations required.
• 10+ years working with FINEOS claims platforms required.
• A strategic claims or absence management leader with deep expertise in disability and leave administration.
• Experienced in leading large-scale operational transformation, process improvement, and technology modernization initiatives.
• Recognized for building strong partnerships and influencing outcomes across complex organizations.
• Skilled at leveraging data, analytics, and operational insights to drive business performance and customer outcomes.
• Knowledgeable in FMLA, ADA, ERISA, Paid Family & Medical Leave programs, and related regulations.
• An effective communicator who can translate complex business needs into practical solutions and drive organizational change.
• Passionate about creating exceptional customer experiences while improving operational effectiveness.
• Industry certifications related to disability management, absence administration, or claims leadership preferred.
• Strong relationships and industry presence within the group benefits and absence management marketplace.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred. High school diploma required.
• Ability to travel occasionally as business needs require.

Requirements

• All newly hired people leaders with direct reports are required to complete a comprehensive leadership development program within their first year.
• This program includes both virtual and in-person training. The in-person sessions will take place at Symetra’s corporate headquarters in Bellevue, Washington.
• Symetra covers all travel and accommodation expenses.

Benefits

• Flexible full-time or hybrid telecommuting arrangements.
• Plan for your future with our 401(k) plan and take advantage of immediate vesting and company matching up to 6%.
• Paid time away including vacation and sick time, flex days and ten paid holidays.
• Give back to your community and double your impact through our company matching.