Head of Group Benefits Operations Technology

Location

Holmdel, United States

Why Join Guardian Life?

At Guardian Life, we are more than just an insurance company—we're a protector of dreams, a champion of financial security, and a leader in employee benefits innovation. With over 160 years of history, Guardian Life stands at the forefront of the insurance industry, delivering group benefits solutions that empower businesses and individuals alike. Joining our team in Holmdel, New Jersey, means becoming part of a collaborative, forward-thinking culture where your expertise in technology and operations can drive real impact.

We offer unparalleled support and flexibility to achieve your professional and personal goals. Through comprehensive benefits, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to work-life balance, Guardian fosters an environment where innovation thrives. Whether you're passionate about leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance group benefits operations or leading high-performing teams, Guardian provides the platform to excel. Be part of a company recognized as a top employer, where your contributions shape the future of insurance technology and customer experiences.

Role Description

We are seeking a dynamic Head of Group Benefits Operations Technology leader within our Group Benefits Digital and Technology organization. In this pivotal role, you will manage Group Benefits Operations applications and aligned business functions, leading a diverse team with full responsibility for their development. Partnering with senior business leaders, you will craft and execute the Group Benefits Digital and Retail strategy. You will be accountable for initiative delivery, financial management, and ensuring operational stability across Group Benefits Operations Technology. This is a strategic leadership position ideal for a confident technology executive ready to drive ROI, innovation, and business growth in the insurance sector.

Detailed Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the Group Benefits Operations Technology strategy, continuously aligning it with Group Benefits Operations business plans and Guardian Life's overarching objectives.
• Apply in-depth knowledge of integration between your area and Group Benefits businesses across Guardian Life.
• Manage financials for initiatives, team, and function, ensuring accountability and fiscal responsibility.
• Oversee all technology related to Group Benefits Operations applications, driving performance, efficiency, and effectiveness from engineering and development teams.
• Ensure alignment with Guardian Life's Digital and Technology objectives while providing strategic direction for initiatives.
• Monitor Operations application performance using data and insights to recommend enhancements and improvements.
• Drive simplification, automation, and modernization of Operations Technology applications and platforms.
• Stay ahead of industry trends, anticipate technology evolutions, and identify opportunities to transform the ecosystem.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders and leaders across Group Benefits and Guardian Life.
• Lead Agile and global large-scale programs, managing third-party outsourcers, software development, engineering, release management, and application support.

Required Skills

The ideal candidate excels in strategic technology leadership within the insurance and group benefits space. Key skills include:

• Strategic planning and execution of technology roadmaps
• Financial management and budgeting for tech initiatives
• Agile methodologies and global program management
• Software development, engineering, and release management
• Managing third-party vendors and managed services
• Application performance optimization and automation
• Stakeholder relationship building and cross-functional collaboration
• Business case development for ROI-driven solutions
• Innovation in emerging technologies and industry trends
• Team leadership and talent development

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Administration, or related field; Master's or MBA preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in technology leadership, with significant tenure in insurance or financial services, particularly group benefits operations.
• Proven track record delivering customer-facing applications that enhance experiences and drive revenue.
• Direct experience leading IT/software departments, end-to-end customer processes, and large-scale Agile programs.
• History of managing outsourcers, application support, and fostering innovation cultures.

Compensation Overview

Salary Range: $174,760.00 - $287,102.50

The salary range above is a good faith estimate of base pay for the primary location in Holmdel, United States. Final salary will be determined based on education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the successful candidate. In addition to base salary, this role may be eligible for annual, sales, or other incentive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and performance bonuses.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and performance-based incentives
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings with company match
• Flexible work arrangements and hybrid options
• Professional development programs and tuition reimbursement
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick days, and holidays
• Wellness programs, gym memberships, and mental health support
• Employee assistance programs and family leave benefits
• Volunteer time off and community involvement opportunities
• Life and disability insurance coverage

Guardian Life is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.