Symetra is seeking an AVP, Claims Strategy and Process Innovation to help shape the future of our Group Benefits Claims organization. This leader will drive claims transformation by modernizing systems, optimizing operations, and advancing innovative solutions that improve customer outcomes and position the business for sustainable growth.

About the role

As the AVP, Claims Strategy and Process Innovation, you will serve as a strategic leader focused on transforming disability and absence management operations through technology, process excellence, automation, and data-driven decision making. You will partner closely with Claims, Technology, Product, Compliance, Legal, and Operations leaders to improve business performance, elevate the customer experience, and support enterprise growth objectives.

What You will Do

• Lead the strategy and roadmap for claims transformation, process innovation, and operational excellence.
• Partner across Claims, Technology, Product, Compliance, and Legal teams to deliver scalable solutions that improve efficiency, quality, and customer outcomes.
• Serve as the business lead for major claims system initiatives, including FINEOS enhancements, implementations, and modernization efforts.
• Drive process improvement and automation opportunities that simplify operations and reduce complexity.
• Translate business needs into future-state operating models, technology solutions, and transformational initiatives.
• Establish metrics, governance practices, and reporting frameworks to measure business impact and operational performance.
• Lead organizational readiness efforts, including change management, stakeholder engagement, communications, and adoption strategies.
• Leverage data and operational insights to identify opportunities, solve business challenges, and improve claims outcomes.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and industry trends to ensure the organization remains competitive and positioned for future growth.
• Influence strategic priorities and investment decisions through strong partnerships with executive leadership.
• Build and develop high-performing teams while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Modern, scalable claims capabilities that support business growth.
• Simplified processes and increased operational efficiency through automation and innovation.
• Successful adoption of new technologies and business processes.
• Improved customer, claimant, and employee experiences.
• Strong partnerships across business and technology functions.
• Measurable improvements in productivity, service quality, and operational performance.
• A culture that embraces innovation, change, and continuous improvement.

What we offer you

Benefits and Perks

We don't take a "one-size-fits-all" approach when it comes to our employees. Our programs are designed to make your life better both at work and at home.

• Flexible full-time or hybrid telecommuting arrangements
• Plan for your future with our 401(k) plan and take advantage of immediate vesting and company matching up to 6%
• Paid time away including vacation and sick time, flex days and ten paid holidays
• Give back to your community and double your impact through our company matching
• Want more details? Check out our Symetra Benefits Overview

Compensation

Salary Range: $141,600 - $236,000 plus eligibility for annual bonus program and long-term incentive plan

Who You Are

• 15+ years of leadership experience in disability, absence management, employee benefits, or claims operations required.
• 10+ years working with FINEOS claims platforms required.
• A strategic claims or absence management leader with deep expertise in disability and leave administration.
• Experienced in leading large-scale operational transformation, process improvement, and technology modernization initiatives.
• Recognized for building strong partnerships and influencing outcomes across complex organizations.
• Skilled at leveraging data, analytics, and operational insights to drive business performance and customer outcomes.
• Knowledgeable in FMLA, ADA, ERISA, Paid Family & Medical Leave programs, and related regulations.
• An effective communicator who can translate complex business needs into practical solutions and drive organizational change.
• Passionate about creating exceptional customer experiences while improving operational effectiveness.
• Industry certifications related to disability management, absence administration, or claims leadership preferred.
• Strong relationships and industry presence within the group benefits and absence management marketplace.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred. High school diploma required.
• Ability to travel occasionally as business needs require.

Travel:

Required Training & Professional Development
All newly hired people leaders with direct reports are required to complete a comprehensive leadership development program within their first year. This program includes both virtual and in-person training. The in-person sessions will take place at Symetra's corporate headquarters in Bellevue, Washington. Symetra covers all travel and accommodation expenses.

Reasonable Accommodations
Symetra is committed to providing equitable access to all job-related responsibilities, including required travel. If reasonable accommodations are needed for travel, Symetra's HR department will work to provide appropriate solutions in alignment with individual needs and company policies.

We empower inclusion
At Symetra, we aspire to be the most inclusive insurance company in the country. We're building a place where every employee feels valued, respected, and has opportunities to contribute.

Inclusion is about recognizing our assumptions, considering multiple perspective, and removing barriers. We accept and celebrate diverse experiences, identities, and perspectives, because lifting each other up fuels thought and builds a stronger, more innovative company. We invite you to learn more about our efforts here.

Creating a world where more people have access to financial freedom
Symetra is a national financial services company dedicated to helping people achieve their financial goals and feel confident about the future. In our daily work, we're guided by the principles of Value, Transparency and Sustainability. This means we provide products and services people need at a competitive price, we communicate clearly and openly so people understand what they're buying, and we design products--and operate our company--to stand the test of time. We're committed to showing up for our communities, lifting up our employees, and standing up for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Join our team and help us create a world where more people have access to financial freedom.

For more information about our careers visit: https://symetra.eightfold.ai/careers

Please review Symetra's Remote Network Minimum Requirements:

As a remote-first organization committed to providing a positive experience for both employees and customers, Symetra has the following standards for employees' internet connection:

• Minimum Internet Speed:100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload, in alignment with the FCC's definition of "broadband."
• Internet Type:Fiber, Cable (e.g., Comcast, Spectrum), or DSL.
• Not Permissible:Satellite (e.g., Starlink), cellular broadband (hotspot or otherwise), any other wireless technology, or wired dial-up.

When applying to jobs at Symetra you'll be asked to test your internet speed and confirm that your internet connection meets or exceeds Symetra's standard as outlined above.

Identity Verification

Symetra is committed to fair and secure hiring practices. For all roles, candidates will be required (after the initial phone screen) to be on video for all interviews. Symetra will take affirmative steps at key points in the process to verify that a candidate is not seeking employment fraudulently, e.g. through use of a false identity.

Failure to comply with verification procedures may result in:

• Disqualification from the recruitment process
• Withdrawal of a job offer
• Termination of employment and other criminal and/or civil remedies, if fraud is discovered