iA Financial Group has announced the appointment of Denis Ricard as chief operating officer, assuming full responsibility for all of the company's individual and group insurance operations in both Canada and the U.S.

These activities, which account for more than three-quarters of the company's earnings, encompass individual insurance and annuities, group benefits and retirement services, special market risks, car dealer services and car loans, as well as auto and home insurance operations. Ricard is also responsible for leading the company's digital transformation strategy.

Ricard has risen through the ranks

“This appointment recognizes the outstanding performance that Denis has delivered throughout his 32‑year career with iA Financial Group,” said Yvon Charest, president and chief executive officer. “Having risen through the ranks through mobility within the organization and exposure to both corporate and operating functions, Denis has a well-rounded perspective that will be instrumental in his role as chief operating officer.”

A graduate of Université Laval in actuarial sciences, Denis progressed from corporate actuarial analyst and middle manager through to chief actuary and senior vice-president, business development at iA.  He has been executive vice-president of individual insurance and annuities since 2015.