Sun Life Canada names Jessica Tan as new president while Jacques Goulet steps into executive chair role
Kevin Strain, president, and CEO of Sun Life, announced that effective September 30, Jacques Goulet will become executive chair and Jessica Tan will succeed him as president of Sun Life Canada.
Jacques Goulet, who joined the company in 2018, has led the company through a period of substantial growth and transformation. His initiatives include the creation of the Client Experience Office, the launch of Sun Life Health, Sun Life One Plan, and Prospr by Sun Life.
Known for his commitment to mental health, Goulet has advocated for mental health awareness in the workplace and supported efforts to improve access to mental health care in Canada.
In his new position, Goulet is said to focus on ensuring a smooth leadership transition and executing key elements of the company’s enterprise strategy.
He will also remain chair of the board of directors for Dialogue, Sun Life Canada’s virtual care business, and continue as chair of the board for the Canadian Life & Health Insurance Association.
Strain noted, “[Goulet] has built a culture at Sun Life that fosters creativity and challenges the team to go even further while leveraging an owner’s mindset. His leadership has resulted in Sun Life delivering positive and sustainable impact in Canadians’ lives.”
Jessica Tan, who will assume the role of President, brings significant global experience in insurance and digital innovation. Tan is recognized for her leadership in digital transformation and health.
Most recently, she served as co-CEO of one of Asia’s largest insurers, where she previously held positions as Group COO and CIO. Before that, she was a partner at McKinsey, where she worked in over 13 countries.
Tan’s accomplishments have earned her recognition as one of Forbes’ The World’s 100 Most Powerful Women since 2019, and she has consistently ranked in the Top 5 of Fortune’s Most Powerful Women from 2019 to 2023.
She was on multiple global boards and advisory committees and is passionate about healthcare and elderly home care.
In Singapore, Tan has volunteered with public healthcare organizations to promote the use of technology in healthcare and provide integrated wellness, medical, and social services for elderly individuals living at home.
Strain also expressed excitement about Tan’s appointment, stating, “[She] brings unique skills and capabilities to Sun Life and, most importantly, she is a great fit for our culture with a proven track record of having a client-focused mindset.”
