The Empire Life Insurance Company has been named the Best Life Insurance Company in Canada in 2013 by World Finance magazine in its annual insurance awards competition.

“We are very pleased to receive this award from World Finance magazine. It recognizes our focus and commitment to our customers, distribution partners, communities and managing our business wisely,” says Les Herr, president and CEO.

The award is given annually to recognize a progressive company that shows leadership in the industry in a number of areas, including financial results, operational efficiency and effectiveness, and a commitment to improving relationships with clients.

World Finance cited record earnings for Kingston, Ont.based Empire Life in 2012 and the company’s commitment to community investment as an Imagine Caring Company and through the activities highlighted in its 2012 Corporate Accountability Report as key reasons why the company was selected for the award.

The awards have been recognizing outstanding financial service companies around the globe since 2007. The magazine invites its 120,000 readers each year to nominate companies in their respective countries. The finalists are reviewed by a panel of independent judges who make their final selection.