Vice President, Operations, Wellness

Vice President, Operations, Wellness & Disability Join to apply for the Vice President, Operations, Wellness & Disability role at Cowan Insurance Group The Vice President of Operations for Wellness and Disability is responsible for leading and optimizing the end-to-end operations of the Wellness and Disability practice. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, compliant third‑party wellness & disability management services, while enhancing the client experience and aligning with organizational goals. What you will do: Ownership of the overall financial contributions and performance against financial metrics Develop and execute the operational strategy for the department, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and regulatory requirements Lead the team to ensure day‑to‑day operations of short‑term disability (STD) claims processing, case management, and return‑to‑work programs adhere to service standards Ensure timely, accurate, and empathetic service delivery. Identify and implement process improvements, automation opportunities, and performance metrics to drive efficiency and service excellence Oversee relationships with clients to ensure client satisfaction and retention metrics are met Review, analyze and create action plans to course correct client feedback Develop client thought leadership initiatives Ensure adherence to federal, provincial, and local disability legislation. Lead audits and risk mitigation strategies Manage third‑level appeals and litigation Build, mentor, and lead a high‑performing team Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement Leverage data analytics to monitor trends, forecast volumes, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to senior leadership Collaborate with HR, Legal, Finance, IT and Benefits Consulting, amongst other teams to ensure integrated disability management and support for employees throughout their leave journey Collaborate on growth and innovation initiatives What you will bring: 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in disability management, benefits administration, or healthcare operations Bachelor’s degree in business administration, healthcare management, human resources, or related field Deep knowledge of employment standards, WSIB/WCB/CNESST, human rights and labour relations, STD programs, and related compliance frameworks Proven track record of operational excellence and strategic execution Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills Experience with disability management platforms and HRIS systems Experience in a large, matrixed organization or insurance/Third‑Party Administration (TPA) environment Experience leading multi‑locations and remote teams Change management and process improvement certifications an asset Bilingual (French) written and spoken an asset Who we are: Proudly independent and Canadian‑owned, Cowan Insurance Group has been a true market leader in the insurance industry since 1927. With an extensive range of product offerings and integrated commercial and personal insurance, group benefits, and wealth management solutions, we provide our clients with outstanding customized, comprehensive insurance and risk management professional advice and placement. Recognized as one of Canada’s Most Admired Cultures and a Canada’s Best Managed Companies Platinum Club Member, Cowan Insurance Group’s award‑winning client‑centric approach emphasizes innovation, excellence, and collaboration. Join our team as we prepare for our centennial celebration in 2027 Benefits and perks: Participate in our comprehensive benefits plan on day one — no waiting period Company‑matched Retirement Savings Plan Company‑paid training and development coursesCommunity involvement Hybrid work environment How to apply: Apply via the Cowan Insurance Group career portal. This position is subject to appropriate background checks that may include credential, employment, credit, criminal and reference checks. Please indicate if you are an applicant with disabilities and require accommodations at the time of contact. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Candidates will be selected strictly on the basis of an individual's technical qualifications, knowledge and experience, as they relate to the requirements of a particular position. Selections will be made without regard to: age, ancestry, colour, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, disability, family status, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, record of offences, sex, or sexual orientation. #J-18808-Ljbffr