Great-West CEO mulls bringing firm’s three units under one brand

Winnipeg-based life insurance giant Great-West Lifeco Inc. (GWL) announced on Thursday that Stefan Kristjanson will take over as president and chief operating officer (COO) of the Canadian division effective Aug. 6.

Kristjanson is currently executive vice president, strategy and transformation at GWL, which operates Winnipeg-based Great-West Life Assurance Co., Toronto-based Canada Life Assurance Co. and London, Ont.-based London Life Insurance Co., as well as various international entities.

Kristjanson succeeds Dave Johnston, who will retire in the third quarter following a 38-year career with GWL. Johnston has held various different roles with the organization since joining in 1978. He has been president and COO of the Canadian division for the past three years.

“As president and COO of the Canadian division, Dave launched the strategy to invest in the capabilities required to ensure that our Canadian operations remain competitive, responsive and relevant in a dynamic and changing environment,” said Paul Mahon, president and CEO of GWL, in a statement. “Dave championed significant change initiatives relating to innovation, digital services and employee engagement. These and his many other achievements position us well for continued success in the future.”

Kristjanson has been associated with GWL for 26 years. He has held a wide variety of roles, including leading the group insurance business in Canada, and integrating Irish Life Group, which GWL acquired in 2013.

“Stefan’s deep understanding of our Canadian operations and his recent focus on strategy and transformation position him well to lead our growth in Canada,” said Mahon.

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