An exclusive alliance with financial writer and TV personality Gail Vaz-Oxlade will provide Manulife’s Canadian group retirement plan members with insights and suggestions designed to help them manage their personal finances and build an effective retirement plan, Manulife Financial Corp. (TSX:MFC) said Thursday.

Best known to Canadians as the host of the acclaimed television series ‘Til Debt Do Us Part’ and the author of ,Debt-Free Forever: Take Control of Your Money and Your Life, Vaz-Oxlade’s practical approach to effective financial management has built her a loyal following that continues to expand.

“We’re really pleased about forming this relationship with Gail,” says Sue Reibel, senior vice president and general manager of group retirement solutions. “Gail has broad appeal across Canada because of the common sense she applies to financial planning. She offers something for everyone, so she’ll be an excellent fit with the education we offer for group retirement plan members.”

“Gail is already a trusted presence for many Canadians,” notes Mike Collins, vice president, marketing, Manulife group retirement solutions. “Her talent for presenting financial tips in a clear way that most people can apply makes her a very effective source. Our clients depend on us to deliver leading services that really engage members and Gail is ideal in that regard. This relationship also speaks to the focus we place on helping plan sponsors manage retirement plan governance. Delivering continuing support for plan members that boosts financial literacy helps sponsors fulfill the spirit of the Capital Accumulation Plan (CAP) Guidelines.”

Initially, Vaz-Oxlade will provide articles for member updates and communications along with a series of web-based seminars for plan members. The program will then expand to include written materials, web presentations and education, plus social media communications.

IE