Account executive, Perform plus

As an Account Executive at Desjardins in Calgary, you will be responsible for fostering and maintaining excellent relationships with group benefits advisors. You’ll develop and implement a targeted business plan to meet sales, retention, and growth targets while conducting regular meetings and promotional presentations. Your role will involve bringing the voice of advisors and clients to internal partners and actively participating in industry events to enhance the Desjardins brand.

To be considered for the Account Executive role at Desjardins, you should hold a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in group benefits. Advanced knowledge of group insurance products, strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, and the ability to communicate effectively in English are also essential. Additional combinations of qualifications may be accepted.

Desjardins provides a comprehensive benefits package for their Account Executives, including a competitive salary, annual bonus opportunities, and four weeks of flexible vacation starting in your first year. Additionally, employees can enjoy a defined benefit pension plan for stable retirement income, group insurance plans, reimbursement of health and wellness expenses, and support for telework equipment.

Yes! Desjardins values the professional growth of its employees. As an Account Executive, you'll have access to various training and development programs to enhance your skills and stay updated on industry trends. Additionally, actively participating in industry conferences will expand your network and expertise.

The work environment at Desjardins is inclusive, positive, and focused on collaboration. With a strong commitment to diversity and equity, the company fosters a culture where all employees are valued and respected. Account Executives typically enjoy a hybrid work model, allowing flexibility while maintaining strong team connections.

To build strong relationships with group benefits advisors, I prioritize regular communication and face-to-face meetings. I focus on understanding their needs and providing tailored solutions that align with their business objectives. Building trust through transparency and delivering consistent support are crucial.

I approach developing a business plan by first analyzing market trends and identifying opportunities for growth. I set specific, measurable goals for sales and retention and outline actionable strategies to achieve those goals, continually reviewing and adjusting my plan based on performance metrics.

In a previous role, I faced a situation where a key client was unhappy with the renewal terms. I scheduled a meeting to understand their concerns, listened actively, and collaborated with our underwriting team to provide alternative solutions that met their needs, ultimately restoring their confidence in our services.

I regularly read industry publications, attend relevant webinars, and participate in networking events. Staying engaged with industry professionals and leveraging online learning platforms help me remain informed about the latest trends that can impact my clients.

I measure success primarily through the achievement of my sales and retention targets. Additionally, client satisfaction and the quality of my relationships with advisors are key indicators. Regular feedback from clients and colleagues also helps gauge performance.

Effective communication involves active listening, clarity, and responsiveness. I ensure that my messages are concise while being open to questions and concerns. Using a mix of formal presentations and informal check-ins helps maintain a good rapport.

I prioritize tasks by assessing deadlines and their impact on business goals. I often categorize tasks based on urgency and importance, allowing me to address high-priority items first while maintaining flexibility for any urgent requests from clients or advisors.

Teamwork is essential as an Account Executive. Collaborating with internal teams ensures that we deliver seamless service to clients. I often work closely with underwriting, marketing, and claims departments to provide comprehensive solutions and address any issues that arise.

I tailor my presentations by first conducting research on the specific needs and preferences of each advisor. Understanding their challenges allows me to highlight the most relevant features and benefits of our products, ensuring my presentation resonates with their objectives.

I thrive in a sales environment driven by the satisfaction of helping clients find solutions that enhance their businesses. The challenge of meeting sales targets and building lasting relationships motivates me to continually improve my skills and strategies.