Business Development Specialist - Definity, Halifax

Role Overview

Definity is looking for a dedicated Business Development Specialist (BDS) to join their team in Halifax, NS. Reporting to the regional Business Development Director, this pivotal role is responsible for cultivating and managing strong, profitable relationships with independent insurance brokers across a defined Atlantic region. As a key business advisor, the BDS drives broker engagement and ensures alignment with company objectives to achieve both top and bottom-line growth. This position encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including performance monitoring, strategic business development, comprehensive training, and clear communication, all focused on optimising broker performance and contributing to the overall success of the organisation. The BDS also acts as a crucial point of escalation for brokers, working to resolve problems efficiently and effectively, and advocates for Economical's positioning in all broker interactions to support the broader Definity business.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The Business Development Specialist will engage in a variety of tasks to support and enhance broker partnerships, focusing on production, profitability, and continuous improvement:

• Partner with brokers to support the achievement of production, profitability, and growth objectives through data-driven insights and business planning.
• Review and interpret performance metrics and trends to identify opportunities for growth, operational effectiveness, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with brokers to develop and implement business plans aligned with regional priorities and organisational goals.
• Support the execution of action plans designed to address performance gaps and foster sustainable growth.
• Promote adherence to company processes, audit requirements, and electronic transaction standards while providing guidance and support as needed.
• Identify and support commercial growth opportunities, lead generation activities, and portfolio acquisition efforts.
• Coordinate broker appointment and termination processes in accordance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to sales and growth initiatives across Personal Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Small Business, Farm, and other lines of business.
• Gather market insights, industry trends, and broker feedback, sharing findings with internal partners to inform business decisions.
• Prepare and maintain broker performance reporting and support performance review discussions.

Fostering strong relationships and clear communication are central to this role:

• Build trusted relationships with brokers by acting as a collaborative business partner and resource.
• Foster strong partnerships through proactive communication, responsiveness, and a commitment to delivering a positive broker experience.
• Communicate product, pricing, coverage, appetite, and market updates in a clear and effective manner.
• Work with brokers to develop performance improvement plans and provide ongoing support to achieve shared business objectives.
• Promote organisational initiatives and support the achievement of key performance and quality measures.

Providing education and training is a vital component of the specialist's support for brokers:

• Facilitate onboarding and ongoing learning opportunities for brokers and brokerage staff on products, systems, processes, and company practices.
• Deliver education and training related to Personal Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Small Business, Farm products, and new business initiatives.
• Provide coaching and refresher training to support understanding of underwriting guidelines, compliance requirements, and data quality standards.
• Support learning and development initiatives arising from audit results, system enhancements, and product updates.

Ensuring contractual compliance is also a key responsibility:

• Provide guidance and consultation on broker agreements, appointments, compensation considerations, and related contractual matters.
• Support adherence to broker agreement terms and conditions, including amendments, renewals, and termination processes where required.
• Communicate contractual and policy updates to brokers and assist with implementation and understanding of changes.

Requirements

To succeed in this Business Development Specialist role, candidates should bring a blend of education, experience, and key skills:

• College diploma, bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience in Business Administration, Insurance, or a related field.
• Experience in the Property & Casualty insurance industry, including exposure to broker-facing responsibilities within areas such as Underwriting, Sales, Distribution, or related functions.
• Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation completed or actively pursuing completion; candidates with equivalent industry knowledge and a willingness to obtain the designation are encouraged to apply.
• Additional industry designations, such as FCIP or Certified Sales Professional (CSP), are considered an asset.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively engage diverse audiences and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain collaborative, professional relationships with clients, brokers, partners, and colleagues.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Experience with Guidewire or similar insurance technology platforms is considered an asset.
• Knowledge of Personal Insurance and Small Business Insurance products and services.
• Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret information, identify opportunities, and support informed decision-making.
• Travel across Atlantic provinces is required.

Compensation and Perks

Definity offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee well-being and career growth. The salary range for this Specialist, Business Development position is $59,300 - $109,200. Please note that the actual salary for the role may vary depending on the successful candidate's work location and other factors, including skills, education, experience, working conditions, and the local labour market.

Definity is committed to providing a rewarding work environment, recognised as one of the Best Workplaces™ in Canada for women, youth, and inclusion. Benefits and perks include:

• Hybrid work schedule for most roles, offering flexibility.
• Company share ownership program.
• Incentive Program, with eligible employees participating in various plans based on individual and company performance.
• Pension and savings programs, including company-matched RRSP contributions.
• Paid volunteer days and company matching on charitable donations.
• Educational resources, tuition assistance, and paid time off to study for exams.
• Focus on inclusion with employee groups, support for gender affirmation surgery, access to BIPOC counsellors, and programs for working parents.
• Wellness and recognition programs.
• Discounts on products and services.