Canada Life Reinsurance has named Jeff Poulin as Executive Vice President, Reinsurance, replacing John Occleshaw, while Derek Popkes has been appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Reinsurance at the firm.
After spending almost two decades with Canada Life (part of the Great-West Lifeco Group of companies), including five years as Head of Canada Life Reinsurance, John Occleshaw has decided to leave the firm but will continue to act as Director of a number of companies within the Great-West Lifeco Group.
Replacing Occleshaw as Head of the firm’s reinsurance division is Jeff Poulin, who has been with the firm for almost 30 years, and spent the last 25 years assisting with the growth of the company’s reinsurance unit.
Poulin will commence his new role on July 1st, 2017, and will remain in the firm’s Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, U.S. office, the headquarters of Canada Life’s reinsurance unit.
Commenting on his departure and the appointment of Poulin, Occleshaw said; “It has been an absolute pleasure to lead Canada Life’s Reinsurance team for the last five years. I’ve had the opportunity to work with our dedicated and knowledgable Reinsurance team, and also our clients – insurance companies around the globe – helping them address interesting issues.
“I am delighted to be handing over to Jeff, and I know that he and the rest of the team are well equipped to continue to support our clients as we continue to navigate through the ever-changing landscape within the global insurance industry.”
The firm has also announced the appointment of Popkes as COO, Reinsurance. He has been part of the Great-West group for over 20 years and has spent 12 years working for Canada Life Reinsurance, essentially leading its European Reinsurance operations. For the last five years, Popkes has held the position as Chief Risk Officer (CRO), European and Reinsurance operations.
Popke will continue to be based in Dublin, and will report to newly appointed Head of Reinsurance, Poulin.
Commenting on the appointment of Popkes, Poulin said; “John has built a strong foundation, and I’m looking forward to working with Derek and the rest of our team to continue the successful growth of our Reinsurance business. We will continue to offer innovative solutions and great service to our clients, backed by the financial security of our global organisation.”
