VP, Small Business Operations

# Experience AvivaIndividually we are people, but together we are Aviva. Individually these are just words, but together they are our Values – Care, Commitment, Community, and Confidence.At **Aviva Canada**, we put people first, our employees, our customers, and our communities. We’re proud of a culture built on care, inclusion, and collaboration, where your voice matters and your growth is supported. We’re not just about insurance; we’re about making a real difference by protecting what matters most.# The OpportunityThe VP, Small Business Operations leads Aviva’s Small Business underwriting organization, driving profitable growth, underwriting excellence, and a market‑leading digital and broker experience. This role sets strategic direction, builds underwriting capability, and strengthens Aviva’s competitive position in the small business insurance market.You will lead a national underwriting team, influence strategy, and own the development of an efficient, scalable operating model that delivers outstanding customer and broker outcomes. This is a key leadership role with responsibility for optimizing small business underwriting and digital journeys.# What you’ll do* Lead the Small Business underwriting organization with full accountability for portfolio performance and growth.* Shape and deliver the Small Business operating model, enabling scale, efficiency, and digital innovation.* Drive customer strategy, elevating satisfaction, service performance, and overall customer outcomes.* Develop and elevate underwriting expertise and leadership capability across the business unit.* Manage the business unit operating expense budget with strong financial discipline.* Lead broker engagement nationally, strengthening relationships and driving trading performance.* Oversee governance, risk, and compliance in alignment with Aviva’s standards.* Champion and lead national initiatives, including system enhancements, portfolio transitions, and vendor selections.* Collaborate with cross‑functional partners to enhance efficiency, automation, and digital underwriting journeys.# What you’ll bring* Bachelor’s degree in business, Finance, or related field.* 10+ years of underwriting experience with leadership responsibility.* Strong Commercial Lines product and underwriting expertise.* Proven leadership experience with the ability to inspire, coach, and develop teams.* Demonstrated ability to lead change and operate effectively in complex environments.* Strong broker relationship management and strategic account management skills.* A broad network of relationships with key Canadian brokerages.* Excellent communication skills and comfort engaging diverse stakeholders.* Solid understanding of market trends, competitive dynamics, and trading solutions.* Strong financial acumen, including budgeting and portfolio management.* Knowledge of insurance legislation, governance, and risk frameworks.* Effective problem‑solving and conflict management capabilities.* High level of IT literacy; experience with systems thinking is an asset.* Professional insurance designations (CIP, FCIP, CRM) preferred.# What makes you stand out* Bilingualism (English/French) is an asset.Please note that we may use AI tools to help us through the recruitment process. This is a new position which has been posted internally & externally. Aviva Canada has an accommodation process in place to provide accommodations for employees with disabilities. If upon commencement of employment you require a specific accommodation because of a disability, please contact your Talent Acquisition Partner so that an appropriate accommodation can be arranged. This process applies throughout your career with Aviva Canada.
#J-18808-Ljbffr