AVP, Privacy Risk & Governance

Job Description:
Providing for loved ones, planning rewarding retirements, saving enough for whatever lies ahead – our policyholders count on us to be there when it matters most. It’s a big ask, but it’s one that we have the power to deliver when we work together. We collaborate and innovate – pushing one another to transform not just Pacific Life, but the entire industry for the better. Why? Because it’s the right thing to do. Pacific Life is more than a job, it’s a career with purpose. It’s a career where you have the support, balance, and resources to make a positive impact on the future – including your own.
We’re actively seeking an experienced AVP, Privacy Risk & Governance to join our Enterprise Compliance team in Newport Beach, CA; Omaha, NE; or Charlotte, NC. This role follows Pacific Life's hybrid work model, which requires employees to work in the office four days per week. Comprehensive relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates. Candidates who reside outside of Newport Beach, CA will be expected to travel to Newport Beach at least quarterly for team collaboration, leadership meetings, and key business activities.
In this role, you will lead and oversee Pacific Life’s Global Privacy Program, providing strategic direction, governance, and operational leadership across privacy, data protection, artificial intelligence (AI) governance, and records and information management. As a member of the Enterprise Compliance Senior Leadership Team within the Legal and Compliance Division, you will partner closely with senior leaders and stakeholders across the enterprise to strengthen compliance capabilities, mitigate risk, and support business objectives.
How You'll Help Move Us Forward
Lead the strategy, administration, and ongoing enhancement of Pacific Life’s Global Privacy Program while supporting the Chief Compliance, Privacy, and Ethics Officer in executing key priorities and deliverables
Monitor global regulatory developments and translate emerging privacy, AI, and information governance requirements into actionable business strategies and compliance initiatives
Direct enterprise privacy risk assessments and partner with stakeholders to identify, prioritize, and mitigate privacy-related risks across the organization
Collaborate with Senior Privacy Counsel to oversee privacy incidents through resolution, serving as a trusted advisor and escalation point for complex matters
Partner with Risk Management, Information Security, Third-Party Risk Management, Operational Risk & Resilience, and business leaders to strengthen and scale privacy, AI governance, and records management capabilities
Identify emerging risks and implement sustainable, repeatable processes that improve program effectiveness, accountability, and operational efficiency
Build, lead, and develop a high-performing team of privacy professionals by establishing clear expectations, fostering accountability, and supporting ongoing professional growth
The Experience You Bring
15+ years of experience in privacy, compliance, legal, risk management, or a related field, with demonstrated expertise in privacy and data protection programs
10+ years of people leadership experience, including leading and developing high-performing teams
Relevant professional certifications in privacy, data governance, cybersecurity, or AI governance (e.g., CIPP/US, CIPP/E, CIPM, CIPT, AIGP) are preferred
Experience supporting privacy compliance programs within the life insurance, financial services, healthcare, or similarly regulated industries is strongly preferred
Strong working knowledge of privacy, AI, and records retention regulations, including CCPA, HIPAA, GLBA, GDPR, and other applicable global requirements
Proven ability to assess complex regulatory requirements, identify risk, and develop practical, business-focused compliance solutions
Exceptional executive communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence, collaborate, and build credibility across all levels of the organization
Demonstrated strategic thinking, sound judgment, and the ability to lead through ambiguity while balancing competing priorities and business needs
Bachelor’s degree
What Makes You Stand Out
AIGP® (Artificial Intelligence Governance Professional)
Experience building or transforming enterprise privacy, AI governance, or information governance programs
Ability to translate regulatory and compliance requirements into practical, scalable business processes
Strong enterprise mindset with a track record of leading cross-functional initiatives and driving organizational change
Trusted advisor who can effectively partner with legal, compliance, technology, risk, and business leaders to achieve strategic outcomes
What Success Looks Like
Strengthens Pacific Life’s Global Privacy Program through proactive risk management, governance, and regulatory readiness
Drives greater enterprise-wide adoption of privacy, AI governance, and records management practices
Builds trusted partnerships across the organization to enhance compliance effectiveness and business enablement
Develops a high-performing team while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Delivers sustainable, scalable solutions that effectively balance regulatory obligations with business objectives
Base Salary Range: $200,000 - $230,000
Base Pay Range:
The base pay range noted represents the company’s good faith minimum and maximum range for this role at the time of posting. The actual compensation offered to a candidate will be dependent upon several factors, including but not limited to experience, qualifications and geographic location. Also, most employees are eligible for additional incentive pay.
Your Benefits Start Day 1
Your wellbeing is important to Pacific Life, and we’re committed to providing you with flexible benefits that you can tailor to meet your needs. Whether you are focusing on your physical, financial, emotional, or social wellbeing, we’ve got you covered.
Prioritization of your health and well-being including Medical, Dental, Vision, and Wellbeing Reimbursement Account that can be used on yourself or your eligible dependents
Generous paid time off options including: Paid Time Off, Holiday Schedules, and Financial Planning Time Off
Paid Parental Leave as well as an Adoption Assistance Program
Competitive 401k savings plan with company match and an additional contribution regardless of participation
You Can Be Who You Are
We are committed to a culture of diversity and inclusion that embraces the authenticity of all employees, partners and communities. We support all employees to thrive and achieve their fullest potential.
What’s life like at Pacific Life? Visit Instagram.com/lifeatpacificlife
EEO Statement:
Pacific Life Insurance Company is an Equal Opportunity /Affirmative Action Employer, M/F/D/V. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career center as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, contact a Human Resources Representative at Pacific Life Insurance Company.