Head of Workforce Benefits Disability Claims – Remote

About the role

Symetra is seeking a Head of Workforce Benefits Disability Claims to lead the strategy, performance, and ongoing evolution of our disability claims organization. This executive leadership role oversees short-term disability, long-term disability, and clinical/vocational services, ensuring exceptional customer outcomes, strong financial stewardship, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Claims Leadership & Strategy
  • Lead end-to-end disability claims operations, ensuring consistent, timely, and accurate claim outcomes.
  • Develop and implement a forward-looking claims strategy aligned with business objectives.
  • Provide leadership and guidance on complex and escalated claims matters.
• Operational Excellence
  • Drive process improvements, automation, and innovation to enhance efficiency and service quality.
  • Establish performance standards and monitor key operational and customer metrics.
  • Improve claimant experiences and return-to-work outcomes.
• Financial & Risk Management
  • Oversee claim liability management and financial performance.
  • Monitor trends, identify risks, and implement strategies to improve outcomes and manage costs.
  • Ensure effective governance and sound business practices.
  • Lead audit, compliance, and risk management activities.
• Leadership & Talent Development
  • Build, develop, and inspire a high-performing team.
  • Lead workforce planning, succession planning, and capability development initiatives.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and customer focus.
• Stakeholder Partnership
  • Partner with leaders across underwriting, clinical, legal, product, technology, and operations teams.
  • Support client relationships through exceptional service delivery and issue resolution.
  • Use data and insights to advise decisions and enhance business outcomes.
• Compliance & Governance
  • Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, company policies, and industry standards.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in group life, disability, absence management, and leave programs, with 5+ years of progressive leadership experience leading leaders within claims organizations required.
• Profit and loss management experience for a division or department required.
• Proven success leading large-scale operations and driving strategic initiatives.
• Strong business acumen with experience handling financial and operational performance.
• Demonstrated ability to lead through change and influence across functions.
• Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and presentation skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree or higher preferred.
• Experience with Claim Vantage or Fineos a plus.
• Receptive to AI and its implications at the enterprise level.
• Ability to travel occasionally.