Kim MacFarlane
Kitchener,ON
Summary
Recently retired from a 37 year career with Manulife.
Former Head of Product Development in Group Benefits, with over 19 years of experience developing innovative products and services that enabled differentiation and market growth, while addressing the emerging health and benefits needs of our clients (over 25,000 employers across Canada). Recognized industry expertise, participating in industry and government committees, conference speaking engagements and round tables. Additional expertise includes supporting sales and marketing teams by presenting as an industry expert at client and industry events. Building trusted relationships with clients and external partners.
Passionate advocate for a positive workplace culture that supports employee wellbeing, and encourages growth and personal development through mentorship and meaningful contribution to the business.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
Work History
Head of Product Development
Manulife
Waterloo , ON
2021.03 - 2023.09
- Developed product strategy and roadmap for Group Benefits, ensuring alignment with business objectives
- Monitored industry trends, emerging health technologies and shifting customer needs
- Led a team of product managers and the strategic partnerships team. Fostering a culture that enables personal development and high employee engagement.
- Talent management, recruiting, succession planning and mentoring.
- Negotiated strategic partnerships with the goal of supporting business growth, innovation and market differentiation
- Partnered with sales, pricing and marketing teams to devise pricing models, messaging and new growth opportunities in a mature highly competitive ecosystem.
AVP Product Development
Manulife
Waterloo , ON
2018.05 - 2021.02
- Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers to maximize value for the company.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams in order to deliver large scale projects within agreed upon timelines and budget.
- Developed business cases for new products, digital health services, and cost management opportunities for clients.
- Led product management team. Supporting growth, development and high engagement.
- Participated in industry committees and Government lead industry discussions.
- Monitored product outcomes and the impact on sales growth.
- Initiated the use of data analytics to measure health outcomes for individuals engaging with products and services.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Anatomy
McGill University
Montreal, QC1986-05
Skills
- Business Acumen
- Strategic Thinking
- Leadership
- Employee Engagement & Talent Management
- Relationship Development
- Product Innovation
- Partnership Negotiations
- Effective Communications
Accomplishments
- Manulife Stars of Excellence Recipient 2015 ( nominated 5 times)
- Profiled in Benefits Canada, Women in Leadership
Timeline
Head of Product Development
Manulife
2021.03 - 2023.09
AVP Product Development
Manulife
2018.05 - 2021.02
Bachelor of Science - Anatomy
McGill University
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