AVP, CRE Operations

Sun Life Financial; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 135,000 - 220,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the financial services sector is seeking an AVP for Corporate Real Estate Operations. This hybrid role involves strategic planning, project management, and driving operational excellence across multiple functions. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership and analytical skills, with significant experience in managing real estate operations. The position offers a competitive salary and a flexible work environment, making it an excellent opportunity to make a difference in the company's operational strategies.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in corporate real estate operations with a focus on workplace solutions.
• Proven ability to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement.
• Core competencies in Project Management, Vendor Management, Facilities Management, and Data Analytics.

Responsibilities

• Develop operational strategies for corporate real estate to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Lead operations teams and monitor key performance indicators to ensure targets are met.
• Oversee the real estate project management team to ensure projects are delivered successfully.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic Thinking

Data Analysis

Problem Solving

Risk Management

Vendor Management

Budget Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Real Estate, or related field

Job description

You are as unique as your background, experience and point of view. Here, you’ll be encouraged, empowered and challenged to be your best self. You'll work with dynamic colleagues - experts in their fields - who are eager to share their knowledge with you. Your leaders will inspire and help you reach your potential and soar to new heights. Every day, you'll have new and exciting opportunities to make life brighter for our Clients - who are at the heart of everything we do. Discover how you can make a difference in the lives of individuals, families and communities around the world.

Job Description:

The AVP, CRE Operations is responsible to develop and deliver highly integrated operating standards for the real estate function, as well as overseeing Workplace Solutions, Analytics & Technology Systems, and the Project Management teams. Reporting to the Vice President, Corporate Real Estate, the incumbent will establish systemized and transparent reporting which can be used at executive forums.

This role requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership skills and the ability to drive operational excellence across multiple functions. Please note this is a hybrid role that requires presence at our Toronto One York location.

What will you do:

• Strategic Planning and Implementation - develop and implement operational strategies to align with company goals, including process improvement, cost reduction, and increased efficiency.
• Leadership and Team Management – Lead and motivate operations teams, providing guidance, direction, and support to ensure effective performance.
• Risk Management and Compliance – Identify and manage operational risks, ensures compliance with industry regulations, and maintains a focus on operational excellence. Be the Operational Risk Officer (ORO) for corporate real estate.
• Performance Monitoring and Reporting – Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and report on operational performance to the executive team.
• Budget Management – Develop and manage capital and operating budgets for the groups under his/her purview, ensuring resources are allocated effectively and efficiently.

Workplace Solutions:

• Oversee the development and implement strategies to optimize workplace solutions and facilities management.
• Ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of all corporate facilities.

Data & Analytics:

• Lead the data analytics and technology team by delivering insights that drive business decisions.
• Ultimately responsible to develop and maintain data governance policies and procedures.
• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of data across all CRE functions.

Project Management:

• Oversee the real estate project management and PMO teams.
• Responsible for the organization and delivery of the team by planning, execution, and completion of CRE projects.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
• Manage project teams and resources effectively.
• Implement project management best practices and methodologies.

What do you need to succeed:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Real Estate, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in corporate real estate operations, with a focus on workplace solutions, data analytics, and project management.
• Strong leadership and management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement.
• Strategic thinker and exceptional problem-solving capabilities.
• Proficient in data analysis to support operational decisions, with the capability to provide recommendations based on insights and trends.
• Core competencies in Project Management, Vendor Management, Facilities Management, and Data Analytics.
• Effective communication skills, including conducting discussions with executives to accomplish business goals.
• Manage critical real estate escalations by being able to respond to critical incidents that may drive BCP needs.
• Be a trusted advisor to the CRE VP and a key leader within the CRE Leadership Team

The Base Pay range is for the primary location for which the job is posted. It may vary depending on the work location of the successful candidate or other factors. In addition to Base Pay, eligible Sun Life employees participate in various incentive plans, payment under which is discretionary and subject to individual and company performance. Certain sales focused roles have sales incentive plans based on individual or group sales results.

Diversity and inclusion have always been at the core of our values at Sun Life. A diverse workforce with wide perspectives and creative ideas benefits our Clients, the communities where we operate and all of us as colleagues. We welcome applications from qualified individuals from all backgrounds.

Persons with disabilities who need accommodation in the application process, or those needing job postings in an alternative format, may e-mail a request to [e-mail] .

We are proud to be a hybrid organization that offers our employees the choice and flexibility to work from both the office and virtually based on the needs of the business, our Clients and you! Several work options are available and can be discussed throughout the selection process depending on the role requirements and individual needs.

We thank all applicants for showing an interest in this position. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Salary Range:

135,000/135 000 - 220,000/220 000

Job Category:

Facilities

Posting End Date:

10/06/2025