Head of Talent Acquisition

Individually we are people, but together we are Aviva. Individually these are just words, but together they are our Values – Care, Commitment, Community, and Confidence.

Aviva Canada is on a mission to build a workforce that drives innovation and delivers on our strategic objectives. As Head of Talent Acquisition, you will lead the design and execution of a recruitment strategy that ensures we attract, engage, and retain exceptional talent across all levels to support Aviva Canada's growth and business objectives. This role is critical to shaping our organizational capability, partnering with executives, leveraging data-driven insights, and implementing advanced sourcing strategies to secure top-tier talent. You will position Aviva as an employer of choice in a competitive market while ensuring operational excellence across all talent acquisition processes.

What you'll do

• Lead the development and execution of a forward-looking Talent Acquisition strategy that aligns with Aviva Canada's long-term business objectives and growth agenda
• Collaborate with Aviva Canada executives to attract top-tier talent while representing Aviva in the market as a premier employer, building strong relationships with executive-level candidates and elevating our reputation as a destination for exceptional talent.

• Oversee the design and implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies within executive recruitment, ensuring Aviva's leadership pipeline reflects the organization's values and commitment to DEI

• Champion the adoption of innovative sourcing methodologies and digital recruitment technologies to ensure Aviva remains competitive in attracting top-tier executive talent

• Drive transformation initiatives within the Talent Acquisition function, including process optimization, automation, and the integration of advanced analytics for data-driven decision making

• Develop and lead a comprehensive Early Careers strategy, including internships, graduate and rotational programs to build a sustainable talent pipeline

• Drive employer brand strategy to position Aviva as a top destination for talent in the insurance industry, leveraging digital channels, campus engagement and industry partnerships to increase visibility and attract diverse candidates.

• Build and maintain strong partnerships with business leaders, HR Business Partners, and external executive search firms to proactively identify future talent needs and leadership opportunities

• Ensure robust governance, risk management, and audit controls across all Talent Acquisition processes, maintaining data integrity for regulatory reporting and business accuracy

What you'll bring

• University Degree or equivalent; HR professional designation (e.g. SPHR, CHRP, CIPD, etc.) preferred
• 10+ years of proven expertise in leading Talent Acquisition strategies for large, complex organizations, ideally within financial services or similarly regulated industries.
• Strategic Mindset with experience aligning recruitment initiatives to long-term business objectives and growth agendas.
• Leadership Skills to inspire and develop a high-performing team, fostering collaboration and customer focus.
• Deep Knowledge of advanced sourcing methodologies, recruitment technologies, and data-driven decision-making.
• Strong Business Acumen with the ability to partner effectively with senior executives and influence organizational priorities.
• Employer Branding Experience in positioning organizations as employers of choice through digital channels, campus engagement, and industry partnerships.
• Commitment to DEI with a track record of embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into recruitment strategies.
• Analytical Capability to leverage talent insights, market trends, and competitor benchmarks for strategic advantage.
• Change Leadership experience driving transformation initiatives, process optimization, and cultural evolution.
• Excellent Communication & Relationship Management skills to represent Aviva externally and build strong partnerships internally and externally.

What you'll get

• Compelling rewards package including base compensation, eligibility for annual bonus, retirement savings, share plan, health benefits, personal wellness, and volunteer opportunities.
• Hybrid flexible work model .
• Outstanding career development opportunities.
• We'll support your professional development education.
• Competitive vacation package with the option to purchase 5 extra days off per year.
• Employee-driven programs focused on gender, LGBTQ+, origins, diversity, and inclusion.
• Corporate wellness programs to support our employees' physical and mental health.

Additional Information

This job advertisement is for an existing vacancy which has been posted both internally & externally.

Aviva Canada may use AI (Artificial Intelligence) tools to assist us throughout the recruitment process to screen, assess or select applicants for a position.

Aviva Canada welcomes applications from all qualified individuals and has a process in place to provide accommodations for persons with disabilities at all stages of the hiring process and during employment. If you require accommodation during the interview or hiring process, please contact your Aviva Talent Acquisition Partner so that an appropriate accommodation can be arranged.