Senior Consultant, GB Plan Sponsor Risk Management

As a Senior Consultant within the Group Benefits Plan Sponsor Risk Management team, you will be instrumental in enhancing risk governance and oversight across the Group Benefits business. This role demands strategic thinking, operational excellence, and a deep understanding of risk management practices. You will lead the design, implementation, and execution of initiatives that mitigate risk, improve compliance, and support business growth. You will manage complex audits, facilitate contractual negotiations, and contribute to high-impact projects such as RFPs. Success in this role requires strong knowledge of Group Benefits, familiarity with Manulife insurance contracts and claims operations, and the ability to collaborate effectively across cross‑functional teams. Leveraging technology and fostering partnerships will be key to driving continuous improvement and operational resilience. Note: This job description outlines key responsibilities and qualifications but is not exhaustive. Duties may evolve based on business needs. Position Responsibilities Lead and manage large-scale audits, including claims and disability audits for key Plan Sponsors. Develop and maintain standardized documentation and templates to communicate post‑audit findings. Facilitate and negotiate contractual agreements with Plan Sponsors and their Advisors, in collaboration with internal stakeholders. Identify operational gaps and recommend targeted process improvements, with a focus on enhancing audit processes. Partner with internal teams to ensure compliance, promote best practices, and support effective project execution. Contribute to strategic initiatives such as RFPs, supporting new sales and client retention efforts through risk assessment and mitigation strategies. Champion continuous improvement in documentation, compliance, and operational processes. Required Qualifications Experience: 5–7 years in Group Benefits, ideally in claims, fraud management, underwriting, or related areas. Education: University degree or equivalent experience in business, analytics, legal, or a related field. Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and SharePoint. Preferred Qualifications Bilingual (French/English): Preferred – ability to support clients across jurisdictions, including outside Quebec. Strong organizational and planning skills; adept at managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. Deep understanding of controls, audit methodologies, and risk management frameworks. Effective communicator with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels. Expertise in client relationship management and contractual negotiations. Proven ability to navigate complex issues and mitigate high‑risk scenarios. Adaptable to evolving business needs and organizational change. Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset. Strategic thinker with the ability to assess interdependencies and broader business impacts. Self‑starter with a proactive approach to managing competing priorities. Committed to continuous learning and knowledge sharing. 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 Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, helping people make their decisions easier and lives better. To learn more about us, visit Manulife is an Equal Opportunity Employer At Manulife/John Hancock, we embrace our diversity. We strive to attract, develop and retain a workforce that is as diverse as the customers we serve and to foster an inclusive work environment that embraces the strength of cultures and individuals. We are committed to fair recruitment, retention, advancement and compensation, and we administer all of our practices and programs without discrimination on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion or religious beliefs, creed, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy‑related conditions), sexual orientation, genetic characteristics, veteran status, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, family status, disability, or any other ground protected by applicable law. It is our priority to remove barriers to provide equal access to employment. A Human Resources representative will work with applicants who request a reasonable accommodation during the application process. All information shared during the accommodation request process will be stored and used in a manner that is consistent with applicable laws and Manulife/John Hancock policies. To request a reasonable accommodation in the application process, contact Referenced Salary Location Waterloo, Ontario Working Arrangement Hybrid Salary range is expected to be between $68,775.00 CAD - $114,625.00 CAD If you are applying for this role outside of the primary location, please contact for the salary range for your location. The actual salary will vary depending on local market conditions, geography and relevant job‑related factors such as knowledge, skills, qualifications, experience, and education/training. Employees also have the opportunity to participate in incentive programs and earn incentive compensation tied to business and individual performance. Manulife offers eligible employees a wide array of customizable benefits, including health, dental, mental health, vision, short- and long-term disability, life and AD&D insurance coverage, adoption/surrogacy and wellness benefits, and employee/family assistance plans. We also offer eligible employees various retirement savings plans (including pension and a global share ownership plan with employer matching contributions) and financial education and counseling resources. Our generous paid time off program in Canada includes holidays, vacation, personal, and sick days, and we offer the full range of statutory leaves of absence. If you are applying for this role in the U.S., please contact for more information about U.S.-specific paid time off provisions. #J-18808-Ljbffr