Operational Risk Innovation - Spring 2027 Co-op

Sun Life · Wellesley · $22–$23/hr (stated in the posting)

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At Sun Life, we’re driven by our Purpose: helping our  Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. Our values shape how we work: caring, authentic, bold, inspiring, and impactful.  

Our student and new graduate programs offer a chance to explore Sun Life from the inside. You’ll make a difference in the lives of our customers and communities, while building the skills and experience that allow you to grow in a meaningful and rewarding way.

Job Description:

Sun Life embraces a hybrid work model that balances in-office collaboration with the flexibility of virtual work in the contiguous states plus AK. This full-time Spring 2027 co-op (January 4, 2027 – June 18, 2027) is a hybrid role with 1–2 days per week based in our Wellesley, MA office during business hours.

The opportunity: The U.S. Operational Risk Center of Excellence (CoE) is seeking a highly motivated and innovative co-op student to support the modernization of Operational Risk programs through artificial intelligence, automation, data analytics, and process improvement.

Rather than supporting day-to-day operational activities, this role will focus on identifying opportunities to simplify processes, improve user experiences, enhance reporting and insights, and leverage emerging technologies to reduce manual effort across Operational Risk programs.

The successful candidate will work directly with leaders responsible for Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM), Operational Resilience, Business Continuity, and Crisis Management to help design and implement practical solutions that improve efficiency, strengthen risk management practices, and increase organizational resilience.

This role provides a unique opportunity to explore how AI and automation can be applied to real business challenges while working with senior leaders on strategic initiatives that have enterprise-wide impact.

Key Accountabilities

AI & Digital Enablement

• Identify opportunities to apply AI, automation, and digital solutions to Operational Risk processes.
• Prototype and test AI-enabled tools using Microsoft Copilot and related technologies.
• Research emerging technologies and evaluate practical use cases for Operational Risk programs.
• Support development of knowledge assistants, search tools, and self-service solutions that improve access to information.
• Assist in establishing best practices for the responsible use of AI within Operational Risk programs.

Process Improvement & Automation

• Analyze existing processes and identify opportunities to reduce manual effort, eliminate duplication, and improve user experience.
• Document current-state and future-state processes, workflows, and requirements.
• Support implementation of workflow and automation solutions using Microsoft technologies such as Power Automate, Power Apps, SharePoint, and Microsoft 365.
• Participate in solution testing, implementation, and continuous improvement activities.
• Develop process documentation, user guides, and training materials.

Data Analytics & Reporting

• Design and develop dashboards, reports, and visualizations that improve decision-making and program oversight.
• Analyze Operational Risk program data to identify trends, improvement opportunities, and operational insights.
• Support development of automated reporting solutions that reduce manual effort and improve data quality.
• Assist in preparing executive presentations and management reporting.

Innovation Across Operational Risk Programs

Support transformational initiatives across:

• Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM)
• Operational Resilience
• Business Continuity
• Crisis Management
• Disaster Recovery
• Operational Risk Governance

Activities may include:

• Improving risk and resilience reporting.
• Developing AI-enabled knowledge management solutions.
• Enhancing stakeholder self-service resources.
• Streamlining assessment and governance processes.
• Identifying opportunities for efficiency and automation.

Sample Projects

The co-op student may contribute to initiatives such as:

AI-Powered Risk Knowledge Assistant

Develop a Copilot-enabled solution that helps stakeholders quickly find guidance, procedures, training materials, and answers to common Operational Risk questions.

TPRM Insights & Analytics Dashboard

Create reporting and visualization tools that provide greater visibility into third-party risk activities, trends, assessment volumes, and operational performance.

Business Continuity Planning Modernization

Design tools that simplify annual plan reviews, improve data validation, and reduce manual effort associated with maintaining business continuity information.

Crisis Management Information Hub

Develop solutions that help crisis teams rapidly access response procedures, contact information, templates, historical event information, and decision-support resources.

Operational Risk Process Automation

Identify and implement automation opportunities that eliminate manual activities and improve efficiency across Operational Risk programs.

Qualifications

Required

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in:

• • Computer Science
  • Data Analytics
  • Information Systems
  • Business Analytics
  • Engineering
  • Business Administration
  • Risk Management
  • Related field

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to learn new technologies and concepts quickly.
• Curiosity, creativity, and a passion for solving business problems.
• Interest in artificial intelligence, automation, process improvement, or digital transformation.

Preferred

• Experience with Microsoft 365, Copilot, Power BI, Power Apps, or Power Automate.
• Experience working with data analysis, reporting, or dashboards.
• Exposure to AI, machine learning, data science, or automation technologies.
• Experience documenting processes or developing workflow solutions.
• Interest in risk management, operational resilience, business continuity, or related disciplines.

Salary:  

$22.00-$23.00 per hour

We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees feel they belong, are supported and empowered to thrive.  We are dedicated to building teams with varied experiences, backgrounds, perspectives and ideas that benefit our colleagues, clients, and the communities where we operate.  We encourage applications from qualified individuals from all backgrounds.

We will make reasonable accommodations to the known physical or mental limitations of otherwise-qualified individuals with disabilities or special disabled veterans, unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business. Please email thebrightside@sunlife.com to request an accommodation.

We do not require or administer lie detector tests as a condition of employment or continued employment.

Sun Life will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including applicable fair chance ordinances.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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