Director: Strategy, Implementation And Innovation

Director, Business Unit Strategy & Operations

The Director, Business Unit Strategy & Operations is a strategic partner to the leadership team of Asia, responsible for driving operational excellence, aligning key priorities, and executing cross-functional initiatives. This role is ideal for someone with a consulting, business strategy, or operations background who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Position Responsibilities:

• Strategic Execution & Support
  • Partner with the COO and the Asia leadership teams to drive the business unit's strategic priorities and ensure execution of key initiatives.
  • Prepare materials for executive updates, leadership team meetings, and business reviews, including developing clear and compelling presentations and dashboards.
• Business Planning & Operations
  • Lead the annual business planning and quarterly business review processes in partnership with the Leadership team.
  • Monitor key metrics and ensure alignment across departments to achieve BU goals.
• Project & Program Management
  • Manage and track cross-functional projects, ensuring stakeholders are aligned and deliverables are met on time.
  • Serve as the point of contact for BU-wide initiatives and ensure project owners have the support needed to succeed.
• Leadership Team Enablement
  • Facilitate leadership team meetings, including agenda planning, documentation, and follow-ups.
  • Act as a thought partner to the COO and leadership on business insights, process improvements, and team effectiveness.
• Communication & Change Management
  • Craft internal communications and change management plans for key initiatives and organizational updates.
  • Help promote a culture of transparency, accountability, and performance.

Required Qualifications:

• 5-10 years of progressive experience in a mix of roles across sales, business operations, commercial strategy, or general management; management consulting experience is a plus but not required.
• Proven track record of driving results in a hands-on business role (e.g., managing a team, leading a sales region, launching a product, or owning a P&L).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.
• Excellent communication and executive presence; comfortable creating and presenting materials for senior leadership.
• Demonstrated experience managing cross-functional projects and aligning stakeholders toward a common goal.
• Comfortable working in fast-paced, ambiguous environments with shifting priorities.
• Bachelor's degree required; MBA or relevant graduate degree preferred.

Key Success Factors:

• Proven track record in driving process improvements and leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency.
• Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and a commitment to operational excellence.
• Ability to navigate cultural and regulatory nuances in Asia while aligning with global standards.
• Effective management of vendor relationships to ensure operational resilience and service quality.

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.

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.

Working Arrangement: Hybrid