Helena Pagano

EVP, Chief People and Culture Officer

Professional Overview
Helena Pagano is an accomplished human resources and communications executive with extensive experience in the financial services industry. As the EVP, Chief People and Culture Officer at Sun Life, she oversees the company's global human resources and organizational development strategies, focused on cultivating a high-performing, diverse, and engaged workforce.

Experience Summary

Current Role
In her current role, Helena is responsible for leading Sun Life's people and culture initiatives, including talent management, learning and development, employee engagement, and organizational design. She has been instrumental in driving the company's cultural transformation, fostering an inclusive and purpose-driven work environment that aligns with Sun Life's core values. Under her leadership, Sun Life has been recognized as a top employer, attracting and retaining top talent in the industry.

Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Helena served as the EVP, Chief Human Resources and Communications Officer at Sun Life Financial, where she was responsible for overseeing the company's global human resources and communications functions. She played a key role in shaping Sun Life's strategic HR agenda and enhancing the organization's internal and external communications. Earlier in her career, Helena held various HR leadership positions at other prominent financial institutions, contributing to their talent development and organizational effectiveness.

Academic Background
Helena holds a degree in Business Administration from Toronto Metropolitan University, with a focus on Human Resources Management. Her specialized education and training have equipped her with a strong foundation in strategic HR practices and their application in the financial services sector.

Areas of Expertise

• Human resources strategy and implementation

• Talent management and organizational development

• Employee engagement and culture transformation

• Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives

• Strategic communications and stakeholder management

Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Helena has been recognized for her strategic leadership and ability to drive positive organizational change. Under her guidance, Sun Life has consistently been ranked as a top employer, with high employee satisfaction and retention rates. She has also been instrumental in spearheading the company's diversity and inclusion efforts, leading to increased representation of underrepresented groups in leadership positions.

Conclusion
With her extensive experience in human resources and a deep understanding of the financial services industry, Helena Pagano is a respected and influential leader in her field. Her commitment to fostering a high-performing, engaged, and inclusive workforce has positioned Sun Life as an employer of choice and contributed to the company's overall success and competitiveness in the market.