For over 150 years, Canada Life has been an integral part of London, Ont., growing from its roots as London Life to becoming one of Canada’s most significant financial services providers. With a workforce that has tripled in the city over the past three decades, Canada Life’s presence in London is more than just historical—it’s an active and ongoing commitment to economic growth, community support, and innovation.
“Everything we do starts and ends with trust,” says Amy Metzger, senior vice-president and chief compliance officer. “That trust is a value we’ve had back since 1874 and it’s a core value we uphold today.”
London Life was founded in 1874, establishing a strong foundation in the city. The company’s landmark building on Dufferin Avenue, opened in 1927, became a symbol of stability and growth. Over time, London Life evolved.
Purchased by Great-West Life in 1997, which also acquired Canada Life in 2003. In 2020, these entities united under a single brand and formally became one company: Canada Life.
“Today, we serve one in three Canadians through our workplace business, providing employees with pensions and group plans, and our individual insurance and wealth management businesses,” says Jeff Van Hoeve, senior vice-president of business integrations. “It’s truly an honour to be trusted by so many Canadians, supporting their financial, physical and mental well-being needs throughout their lives.”
As Canada Life has grown, so has its impact. In 1997, London Life had 1,200 employees in the city. Now employing more than 3,500 people at its London campus, it continues to be a major employer in the region. Access to the large and highly skilled talent pool in Southwestern Ontario has been an important factor in the company commitment and investment in our city.
Growing strong communities is a commitment that Canada Life lives every day. One of the most visible demonstrations of this commitment came in 2024 when Canada Life became the naming partner of London’s premier sports and entertainment venue – Canada Life Place. This move wasn’t just about branding—it was a statement of long-term investment in the city’s cultural and economic landscape.
“As a major employer, London needs Canada Life and Canada Life needs London, it’s the perfect relationship,” says Van Hoeve. “Putting the company name on this landmark sports and entertainment venue shows our commitment to the community.”
Canada Life’s contributions to London go far beyond its corporate success. The company has been a consistent and significant supporter of local initiatives that help improve the lives of Londoners.
“Canada Life contributed $250,000 towards the Children’s Museum at 100 Kellogg, is the lead sponsor of ReForest London, supports the Health and Homelessness Fund for Change, and contributed $255,000 to that fund in legacy of the company’s former president,” says Van Hoeve. “Canada Life also donated $125,000 to Joan’s Place, which is a rent-controlled apartment for youth, providing wraparound services in their wellness hub.”
As Canada Life looks ahead to the future, the company is focused on strategic priorities including growing trust by Canadians, championing the entrepreneurial advisor and providing a best-in-class service experience to support business growth.
“Canadians want and need trusted advice throughout their lifetime. At the same time, we recognize that our customers' expectations have changed and increased – from how they access advice and how they purchase products and the services they need. Technology has a significant impact on what customers are looking for and what they’re expecting from us, and it’s raised the bar, regardless of the industry,” says Metzger. “Advisors have more choices, and they want a company that makes it easy for them to succeed in their business – and support Canadians. The ease of doing business is a huge differentiator for us.”
With a strong foundation in London, Canada Life continues to grow and innovate, staying true to the values of trust and integrity that have guided it for more than a century, while always looking ahead and responding to an ever-changing market. Canada Life’s deep investment in the community assists London in thriving, so too does Canada Life’s commitment to its employees, customers, businesses and future.
