Implementation Specialist

The role of **Implementation Specialist**is to implement the new business of our mid case clients into **Group Retirement Services (GRS)**and to project manage any complex amendments or plan changes for our mid case clients as well as simple amendments and fund rationalizations for the large case as required.

The role involves relationship management, consulting, and project management. Utilizing a project management approach, the Implementation Specialist is involved during the implementation and warranty process to see the Customer through all aspects of the Implementation. Through a partnering relationship with the Account Executive, Client Relationship Manager and internal teams, the Implementation Specialist will ensure that Manulife is responding to the needs of the Customer as well as Manulife.

The Implementation Specialist will have primary responsibility for project managing to ensure a successful implementation with tracking and reporting on the progress of the various implementation stages.

This is a Hybrid position (3 days in office, 2 WFH).

**Position Responsibilities**:

- Creation of implementation schedules.
- Primary contact for the Client and/or Advisor during the implementation phase.
- Works with the client and implementation team to obtain plan details, clarify requirements, and establish delivery dates for tasks in the project.
- Coordinates and leads/facilitates the Client meeting.
- Coordinates, delegates, negotiates, and follows up on all implementation tasks with each internal area involved throughout the process areas to ensure all areas have required information for plan set up and works as liaison with client to resolve issues, missing information.
- Tracks and reports the status of each project and proactively escalates any significant barriers or issues to Sr. management as necessary.
- Project manages the implementation schedule, provides status updates to Client and/or Plan Advisor and Account Executive and/or Client Relationship Manager.
- Coordinates the initial enrolment period (paper enrolment forms, or electronic data) and contacts plan sponsor for missing employee information.
- Communicates with internal teams to resolve exceptional situations and problems that arise during the issue process.

**Required Qualifications**:

- Knowledge of contract provisions and administrative practices of Group Retirement products and systems.
- Group Retirement experience.
- Good knowledge of Excel and other Window’s based software.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal skills.
- Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills with the ability to recognize implications of issues and solutions.
- Ability to handle fluctuating workloads and multiple priorities within set time constraints.
- Customer service focused - ability to effectively negotiate/communicate with internal and external clients.
- Strong analytical skills.
- Attention to detail.
- Understanding of the large case market include HR Services and IS requirements for these services.

**Preferred Qualifications**:

- Nice to have RPA but not a requirement.

**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 is an Equal Opportunity Employer**

**Primary Location**

Waterloo, Ontario

**Working Arrangement**

Hybrid
**Salary range is expected to be between**

$56,400.00 CAD - $94,000.00 CAD

Manulife offers eligible employees a wide array of customizable benefits, including health, dental, mental health, vision, short