Manulife names Guloien as next CEO

The board of Manulife Financial has announced the successor for Dominic D’Alessandro, the outgoing CEO of the country’s largest insurer. Taking the helm as the next president and CEO will be Donald A. Guloien, effective May 7, 2009.

“Donald is ideally suited for this role,” said Arthur Sawchuk, chair of the board of directors. “He is extremely bright and has a deep understanding of all facets of our business and a track record filled with achievements. Manulife Financial will be well-served as he takes the helm next year.”

Guloien is currently senior executive vice-president and chief investment officer, as well as chairman and CEO of MFC Global Investment Management.

D’Alessandro has led Manulife since 1994.

“Under Dominic’s leadership Manulife has become one of the world’s pre-eminent life insurers,” Sawchuk said. “He has also, in the process, assembled an outstanding management team. This has allowed the Board to select from within the company and affords the company the benefit of an orderly transition.”

The company has also named senior executive vice-president John D. DesPrez III as the next chief operating officer.

“John has an 18-year history with Manulife and is a superb executive who has led our businesses in Canada and the U.S. through a period of outstanding growth,” said Sawchuk.

Filed by Steven Lamb, Advisor.ca, steven.lamb@advisor.rogers.com

(09/08/08)