The Standard Life Assurance Company of Canada Thursday announced the appointments of two executives to its senior management team.

Michel Fortin is promoted to senior vice president, marketing and customer solutions and Kevin Powers is appointed senior vice-president, finance and strategy. The appointments of Fortin and Powers are effective August 13 and September 10, respectively. They will be based at the Standard Life’s Montreal head office.

“I’m confident that the solid experience Michel and Kevin bring, their insight and initiative will be valuable assets to Standard Life as we continue to focus on providing innovative retirement and investment solutions to our customers,” said Charles Guay, president and CEO.

Fortin joined Standard Life in 1987. In the newly created role, he will oversee the development and implementation of the company’s whole suite of products and services, pricing and marketing communications. Most recently, he was vice president, business opportunities and pricing for the retail and pension products. He has also played a significant role in the development and marketing of retail investment products.

Fortin holds a Bachelor’s degree in actuarial science from Quebec City’s Laval University and has been a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and the Canadian Institute of Actuaries since 2000.

Powers has extensive experience in the financial services industry. Previously, he was chief financial officer for RBC Dexia in London, England where he was responsible for financial and treasury activities, including operational financial processes, accounting and reporting, procurement, real estate and taxation. Powers also held several senior positions in financial institutions in Montreal and Toronto.

Born in Montreal, Powers is a chartered financial analyst (CFA). He holds a Master of Science degree in Administration and a Bachelor of Commerce Degree from Montreal’s Concordia University.