When Benedict Sison took the helm of Sun Life Philippines, he inherited more than just a business – he became the custodian of a 130-year legacy that has touched generations of Filipino families.

Leading the nation's longest-standing life insurer requires a unique blend of reverence for the past and vision for the future, something Sison has mastered through more than 15 years of experience in financial services.

"Our purpose guides every decision we make and keeps us focused on what truly matters." Sison reflects on the weight of leadership at such an established institution.

For Sison, leading a company with such deep roots isn't about maintaining the status quo – it's about understanding why Sun Life has endured for more than a century and ensuring those core values evolve with changing times. His leadership style centers on empathy and shared purpose, recognizing that longevity comes from genuine connection with both employees and Clients.

"I believe that when leaders are guided by a deeper purpose, they can inspire and empower others to do the same," he explains. This philosophy has shaped his approach to fostering a culture where every team member feels empowered to contribute to the company's enduring mission.

Under his guidance, Sun Life has maintained its number 1 ranking in total premium income for 14 consecutive years – a testament to the delicate balance between respecting tradition and embracing change.

The true test of Sison's leadership came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he had to rapidly transform a century-old company's operations while maintaining the personal touch that built its reputation. His response revealed the strategic thinking required to lead an established institution through unprecedented challenges.

Rather than viewing digital transformation as a departure from Sun Life's human-centered approach, Sison positioned technology as an enhancement to personal service. The company strengthened its digital capabilities and empowered advisors through virtual platforms, all while ensuring the empathy that builds lasting relationships remained central to operations.

"Innovation at Sun Life is not just about technology; it's about enhancing human connection, because even though technology can accelerate service, it's empathy that builds relationships," Sison notes, revealing how he frames modern solutions within timeless principles.

Leading a 130-year-old company means every decision carries the weight of history. Sison must balance stakeholder expectations built over generations while positioning Sun Life for future growth in an increasingly competitive market. This requires what he describes as a "forward-thinking embrace of innovation" without losing sight of the foundational trust that has sustained the company through multiple economic cycles and social changes.

His calm, grounded presence has become a stabilizing force as the company navigates industry transformation. The challenge isn't just maintaining market position – it's ensuring that Sun Life's evolution strengthens rather than dilutes the qualities that made it endure.

As Sun Life celebrates its 130th anniversary under the theme "Brighter Together," Sison's leadership approach offers insights into what it takes to guide institutional legacy into the future. His focus on collaboration and shared goals reflects an understanding that longevity requires both individual leadership and collective commitment.

"Looking ahead, every decision and move we make drives back to our core objective of helping Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives," Sison says, articulating how purpose-driven leadership can honor the past while creating space for innovation.

For leaders of established institutions, Sison's approach demonstrates that successful stewardship requires more than operational excellence; it demands the wisdom to know when to preserve, when to adapt, and when to transform – all while keeping the human element at the center of every decision.

To learn more about Sun Life, visit www.sunlife.com.ph.