About Symetra Financial

Symetra Financial is a leading insurance and financial services powerhouse, renowned for its stability and innovation in life insurance, retirement solutions, and employee benefits. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Life—one of Japan's top four life insurers with over $250 billion in assets—Symetra boasts an A-rated carrier status through Symetra Life Insurance Company (SLIC), managing over $50 billion in assets. Symetra Investment Management (SIM), its registered investment advisor subsidiary, oversees more than $80 billion in assets under management (AUM), serving Symetra's insurance affiliates, Sumitomo Life, and select third-party clients.

With a proven track record in fixed annuities, group life and disability products, and fixed indemnity offerings, Symetra Financial prioritizes prudent asset management to support long-term policyholder security. SIM's expertise spans U.S. markets, leveraging decades of institutional knowledge to deliver reliable results. This role positions you at the heart of Symetra's strategic growth in alternative credit strategies.

Role Overview

Symetra Investment Management seeks a Sr. Managing Director, Head of CLO, High Yield & Bank Loan Management—a pivotal leadership role with ultimate responsibility for a high-performing team managing $2.4 billion in consolidated exposure. This hybrid position, based in Farmington, Connecticut, offers an unparalleled opportunity to helm SIM's inaugural CLO (Symetra 2025-1), below-investment-grade sleeves for Symetra Life affiliates, and a bank loan mandate for Sumitomo Life.

Key priorities include prudent ongoing management of high yield and bank loan portfolios, explosive CLO business expansion backed by substantial equity commitments, and potential development of third-party channels like separately managed accounts (SMAs). Built on established human capital, technology, and relationships—including synergies from SIM's $9B+ CLO tranche investing team—this role thrives within a seasoned asset manager owned by a highly rated insurer.

Key Responsibilities

As Head of CLO, High Yield & Bank Loan Management, you will:

• Execute SIM's strategic CLO growth plan, overseeing all issuance and management aspects to build scale and investor recognition.
• Lead a dedicated team of below-investment-grade credit analysts and traders in initial underwriting, portfolio construction, ongoing monitoring, and active sourcing via new issues and secondary markets.
• Foster strong dealer relationships and drive portfolio opportunities in high yield bonds and bank loans.
• Collaborate across SIM functions—including CLO tranche investing, insurance portfolio management, operations, legal/compliance, and business development—to ensure seamless execution.
• Expand CLO issuance for recurring investment results, leveraging enterprise support and institutional sponsorship.

Qualifications & Requirements

The ideal candidate brings 15+ years of leadership in below-investment-grade credit, with a proven track record in CLO management, high yield, and bank loans. Key qualifications include:

• Deep expertise in CLO structuring, issuance, and portfolio management.
• Experience scaling credit platforms with significant AUM growth.
• Strong network of dealer, investor, and issuer relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to lead sophisticated teams delivering consistent, risk-adjusted returns.
• Familiarity with insurance-affiliated asset management and regulatory frameworks.

This role demands strategic vision, hands-on execution, and a commitment to Symetra's prudent, long-term approach.

Benefits & Perks

Joining Symetra means accessing premium benefits tailored for senior leaders:

• Hybrid work model in vibrant Farmington, Connecticut, balancing collaboration and flexibility.
• Competitive compensation with upside tied to CLO expansion success.
• Comprehensive health, retirement, and wellness programs from an A-rated insurer.
• Professional development within an $80B+ AUM platform.
• Stability of Sumitomo Life's global backing and Symetra's decades-long history.

Career Growth

This position launches you into Symetra's enterprise-level strategic initiatives, with direct paths to broader investment leadership. Lead CLO growth from $2.4B exposure to multi-billion scale, pioneer third-party SMAs, and influence Symetra's $80B+ portfolio strategy. Leverage synergies across life insurance, retirement, and employee benefits arms for holistic career advancement in a stable, growth-oriented firm.

Why Join Symetra

Symetra Financial stands out for its rare blend of scale, stability, and opportunity. Unlike volatile startups, Symetra offers the infrastructure of a top-tier insurer with Sumitomo Life's global resources. Drive meaningful CLO expansion in a supportive environment, backed by proven teams and technology. Contribute to life insurance innovation, retirement security, and employee benefits that impact millions, all while advancing your legacy in high yield and structured credit.

Role FAQs

What is the team size and AUM?

The team manages $2.4B across CLO, high yield, and bank loans, comprising experienced analysts and traders.

Is relocation support available?

This hybrid role is based in Farmington, CT; discuss relocation with HR during interviews.

What growth opportunities exist?

Substantial equity for CLO issuance, plus SMAs, positions this as a platform for rapid expansion.

How does Symetra support work-life balance?

Hybrid flexibility, robust benefits, and a culture emphasizing prudent, sustainable performance.

What makes this role unique?

Lead with full institutional backing in a stable insurer-owned manager—ideal for proven credit leaders.