The Empire Life Insurance Company has announced the appointment of Leslie Herr as the president and CEO of the company, effective April 1, 2008.

Mr Herr will succeed Douglas Hogeboom. He has joined Empire Life in November 1999 as director of sales for Central Ontario region. He holds an executive MBA from Queen’s University and is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology.

Duncan Jackman, chairman of the board of directors of The Empire Life Insurance Company, said: Les Herr has been a key contributor to the growth of Empire Life in recent years. The board of directors is confident that under his leadership, and building upon the many achievements of Doug Hogeboom, Empire Life will enjoy continued success in the Canadian marketplace.