Business Relationship Manager

About the Role

We are driven to do more—for our customers and the financial professionals who offer our products. If you thrive on pursuing challenges and want to work in an inclusive, dynamic environment, Athene is the place for you. This role is responsible for managing the operational relationships between Athene and the back offices of our Key Distribution Partners (KDPs), including Banks, Broker/Dealers, and Wirehouses. You will collaborate closely with internal teams to deliver proactive operational support and foster strong partnerships. The ideal candidate will exhibit accountability, teamwork, excellent relationship-building skills, creative problem-solving, and a strong drive for excellence.

Responsibilities

• Act as the KDPs’ primary point of contact for operational escalations, technology needs, and initiatives.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams to provide proactive operational support and foster strong partnerships.
• Develop and maintain relationships with KDPs and key stakeholders in the annuity industry.
• Ensure efficient and effective communication between internal teams and KDPs.
• Identify and drive opportunities to enhance operational processes, technology capabilities, and improve service delivery.
• Monitor and analyze trends to inform strategic decision-making and operational improvements, including industry benchmarking as requested.
• Address and resolve operational issues or concerns in a timely and effective manner.
• Educate KDPs on Athene’s processes, procedures, and service level goals.
• Possess a deep understanding of how KDPs conduct business, including the operational technology used to collaborate.
• Assist with the implementation of operational technologies, product launches, and other projects as needed.
• Work closely with the Sales Team and Sales Key Account Managers on overall account management.
• Provide support to other members of the BRM team as needed.
• Partner with the Onboarding team to ensure a seamless and effective onboarding experience for new KDPs and new product launches for existing KDPs.
• Travel to KDPs and/or industry conferences as needed (10% or less).

Requirements

• 5+ years of progressive professional experience in relationship management within the insurance or financial services industry, or relevant experience, including supporting customer service, operations, sales, or related functions.
• Strong relationship management and communication skills, with the ability to build credibility, influence outcomes, and collaborate effectively with internal and external partners.
• Demonstrated critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to evaluate moderately complex situations, develop creative solutions, take ownership, and drive issues through resolution.
• Adaptability and a continuous improvement mindset, including the ability to work independently, navigate changing business needs, identify opportunities to improve processes, and leverage technology and AI-enabled tools.
• Working knowledge of annuity and financial services operations, including annuity order-entry systems and DTCC feeds, preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required; relevant industry designations or FINRA licenses preferred.