Manulife Financial Corporation

Head of Investment Counselling Services

Manulife Financial Corporation$120K — $180K *
Finance & Insurance
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 15+ years of progressive experience in the investment or wealth management industry
  • Demonstrated leadership experience managing investment professionals and business development teams
  • Deep knowledge of discretionary portfolio management and high-net-worth client needs
  • CFA designation (or equivalent) preferred
  • MBA or related business degree is an asset
  • Bilingualism (English and French) is an asset, especially for candidates in Québec.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the development and execution of strategic and annual business plans to support MPW growth objectives
  • Partner with distribution, regional leaders, and internal stakeholders to drive asset growth and client acquisition
  • Establish clear performance objectives and sales targets aligned with business priorities
  • Expand referral networks by building relationships with advisors, MGAs, investment dealers, and professional partners
  • Provide oversight of discretionary portfolio management to ensure alignment with client objectives, risk tolerance, and MPW's investment philosophy
  • Promote a culture of risk awareness and operational excellence
  • Collaborate across functions, including Wealth Planning, Product, Marketing, and Operations, to deliver integrated client solutions

Benefits

  • Empowerment to learn and grow your career
  • Support in a flexible environment with a focus on well-being and inclusion
  • Opportunities to participate in incentive programs tied to performance
  • Wide array of customizable benefits, including health, dental, and mental health coverage
  • Various retirement savings plans including employer matching contributions
  • Generous paid time off program including holidays, vacation, personal, and sick days
Full Job Description
The Opportunity:

Manulife Private Wealth ("MPW") provides discretionary investment management to high-net-worth clients across Canada. We believe that strategic thinking, open architecture solutions, and a global investment perspective are integral to helping clients achieve their long-term goals.

As part of Manulife, a leading international financial services group, MPW is backed by extensive capabilities across public and private markets, supported by a global investment footprint spanning more than 20 geographies and over 700 investment professionals. We leverage Manulife's broader platform to deliver integrated solutions, including investment management, banking, and tax planning services.

We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated leader to join MPW as Head of Investment Counselling Services.This role is accountable for leading our national team of Investment Counsellors and Private Wealth Consultants, driving exceptional client outcomes, strong business growth, and a high-performance culture.

As a member of the MPW leadership team, you will play a key role in shaping strategy, strengthening investment and client capabilities, and ensuring a consistent, high-quality client experience. You will work closely with partners across the organization and externally to build our brand, deepen relationships, and expand our presence in the high-net-worth segment.

Responsibilities:

Business Strategy and Growth
  • Lead the development and execution of strategic and annual business plans to support MPW growth objectives.
  • Partner with distribution, regional leaders, and internal stakeholders to drive asset growth and client acquisition.
  • Establish clear performance objectives and sales targets aligned with business priorities.
  • Expand referral networks by building relationships with advisors, MGAs, investment dealers, and professional partners.
  • Oversee the development and execution of marketing and client engagement strategies, including direct-to-client initiatives.

Leadership and Talent Development
  • Lead, coach, and develop a national team of Investment Counsellors and Private Wealth Consultants.
  • Create an inclusive, high-performing environment that supports engagement, collaboration, and accountability.
  • Oversee talent management practices, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and succession planning.
  • Implement structured coaching and development programs to enhance individual and team effectiveness.

Investment and Client Oversight
  • Provide oversight of discretionary portfolio management to ensure alignment with client objectives, risk tolerance, and MPW's investment philosophy.
  • Ensure all investment proposals and Investment Policy Statements meet internal standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Partner with investment teams on platform development and ongoing evolution of investment offerings.
  • Act as a senior representative in key client and advisor interactions, supporting complex and strategic relationships.

Governance, Risk and Supervision
  • Maintain strong supervisory practices across the team to ensure compliance with regulatory and internal requirements.
  • Partner with Compliance and Operations to continuously enhance policies, processes, and controls.
  • Promote a culture of risk awareness and operational excellence, balancing client outcomes with regulatory expectations.
  • Drive efficiency and consistency through the Investment Counsel Support team.

Enterprise Leadership
  • Contribute as an active member of the MPW leadership team, supporting the overall direction and success of the business.
  • Collaborate across functions, including Wealth Planning, Product, Marketing, and Operations, to deliver integrated client solutions.
  • Serve as a visible ambassador for MPW, strengthening internal and external relationships and enhancing market presence.


Qualifications
  • 15+ years of progressive experience in the investment or wealth management industry.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience managing investment professionals and business development teams.
  • Deep knowledge of discretionary portfolio management and high-net-worth client needs.
  • CFA designation (or equivalent) preferred; ability to obtain required regulatory registrations.
  • MBA or related business degree is an asset.


Bilingualism (English and French) is an asset. If the successful candidate is in Québec, proficiency in both languages will be required to support clients from various provinces outside of Quebec.

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.


The role being advertised is an existing vacancy.

Working Arrangement

Hybrid

Salary & Benefits

Employees also have the opportunity to participate in incentive programs and earn incentive compensation tied to business and individual performance. 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. If you are applying for this role outside of the primary location, please contact [redacted] for the salary range for your location.

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 [redacted] for more information about U.S.-specific paid time off provisions.

About Manulife Financial Corporation

John Hancock's core retail products in the U.S. focus on providing financial solutions at every stage of our clients' lives. Our product suite includes life insurance, mutual funds, 401(k) plans, long-term care (LTC) insurance, and annuities. We distribute our products primarily through licensed financial advisors, and through John Hancock Financial Network, a national network of independent firms.

Manulife Financial Corporation Careers

Join the dynamic team at Manulife Financial Corporation, a leading global financial services group dedicated to helping people make their decisions easier and lives better. With a presence in more than 20 countries, Manulife offers a diverse range of job opportunities that empower professional growth and innovation in the financial sector. Work You’ll Do At Manulife, every position contributes to our inclusive culture of diversity, leadership, and innovation. We are committed to fostering a workplace where every team member feels valued and has the opportunity for personal and professional growth. Join us to be part of a company that values your skills and passion. Explore a Wealth of Opportunities Whether you're seeking your first internship or a seasoned professional aiming to advance your career, Manulife offers a spectrum of career paths ranging from finance and marketing to technology and customer service. Our job opportunities are designed to enhance your skills through robust training programs and hands-on experience in a supportive environment. Innovate with Us Drive transformation in the financial services industry with Manulife’s commitment to technology and innovation. Work alongside over 34,000 professionals globally, leveraging cutting-edge tools and processes that redefine how financial services are delivered. Be Part of a Great Team Manulife’s team-oriented approach ensures that everyone’s voice is heard and valued. Collaborate with talented professionals from diverse backgrounds to develop solutions that improve the lives of our customers. Enjoy the benefits of a global company that supports your ambitions with resources and opportunities to lead and innovate. Future-Proof Your Career Manulife supports your career journey with continuous learning and development opportunities. From leadership training to networking events, we provide the tools to succeed and the platforms to showcase your achievements. Our commitment to career growth ensures that your journey with us will be rewarding and impactful. Stay Connected Join Our Team Discover the range of job opportunities at Manulife by exploring open positions that match your skills and interests. We are always on the lookout for curious, driven, and innovative team players who are ready to make a difference. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest company news, career tips, and industry insights—all from the people who work here. Manulife is dedicated to providing you with the resources to thrive in your career. Job Alert Emails Customize your experience by subscribing to receive job alerts and insider information tailored to your preferences. Learn about exciting and rewarding opportunities as they arise and how you can be a part of our transformative team. Join Manulife Financial Corporation today and be part of a leading company where your career is as rewarding as it is impactful. Explore how far your talents can take you in an environment built on respect, integrity, and a desire to achieve the best outcomes for our clients and our team.
Learn more about Manulife Financial Corporation
Size
38,000 employees
Market Cap
$33.4 billion
Industry
Founded
1887
5 Year Trend
+1%
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Manulife Financial Corporation

More Finance & Insurance Jobs

Find similar Head of Investment Counselling Services jobs: