Executive Director, Product Strategy, Execution

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Illinois.

📋 Description

• Lead the development of new products by conducting market research, analyzing trends, and gathering customer insights.

• Create and maintain a competitive edge through a data-driven vision for products and prioritized roadmaps.

• Recognize emerging market opportunities and convert insights into strategic product initiatives.

• Employ continuous discovery and validation methods to address customer challenges, reduce risks, and speed up market entry.

• Collaborate across departments to synchronize innovation with long-term growth and operational execution.

• Develop systematic approaches for market intelligence, feedback, and performance evaluation.

• Oversee prioritization and development within the health product portfolio.

• Cultivate relationships within the voluntary benefits sector and enhance understanding of changing trends.

• Assist field partners by effectively communicating product value and strategies across various teams and channels.

• Direct product development activities, which include research, design, sales strategy, market analysis, requirements documentation, cost-benefit analysis, and implementation.

• Conduct risk assessments and establish budgets and operational strategies for products.

• Drive the health product claims strategy and identify customer experience opportunities.

• Manage relationships with external vendors and partners, involving RFP and finalist selection processes.

• Take ownership of product strategy from initial concept to market launch.

• Work together with underwriting, sales, and marketing teams to effectively position products and enhance producer awareness.

• Act as the central expert on product knowledge and market needs.

• Ensure that product initiatives meet return on investment objectives.

• Mentor direct reports and lead initiatives in collaboration with technology and project partners.

• Establish and manage KPIs for product initiatives to facilitate data-driven decision-making.

• Ensure compliance of products and adapt to regulatory changes.

• Perform additional duties as assigned or necessary.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor's degree.

• 7-10 years of industry experience, encompassing product development, product management, and implementation.

• Experience in developing or managing voluntary and/or group products.

• Capability to lead and influence without direct oversight.

• Proven track record of developing and adjusting strategies and tactics to drive business growth.

• Proficiency in analyzing and interpreting complex concepts and resolving intricate issues.

• Ability to inspire, lead, and mentor both leaders and team members.

• Experience working collaboratively across the organization to build consensus and synergies, manage conflicts, negotiate, and foster team spirit.

• Innovative and creative mindset towards enhancing existing processes.

• Strong integrity and character.

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

• Preferred: Strong broker and market connections in voluntary benefits and related sectors.

• Preferred: Sales-related experience, including client-facing roles such as technology, partnerships, account executive/account management, or similar.

• Preferred: Expertise in leading research initiatives and synthesizing consumer insights.

🏝️ Benefits

• Health insurance.

• Dental insurance.

• Vision insurance.

• Life insurance.

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

• Health Savings Account (HSA).

• 401(k) plan.

• Employee Assistance Program.

• Back-up Care for Children, Adults, and Elders.

• Health and wellness initiatives.

• A wellness program that allows employees to participate in health initiatives to lower insurance premiums.

• Eligibility for bonuses.