Acera Insurance is merging with Fairfield Watson Inc., a Calgary-based consulting firm specializing in employee benefits, insurance and retirement. The new company will retain the Acera name with Tony Fairfield, founding partner of Fairfield Watson, serving as president of group benefits. The merger will strengthen Acera’s ability to provide insurance, group benefits and risk mitigation solutions across Canada, […]
The third Monday in January, also known as ‘Blue Monday,’ is considered to be the saddest day of the year, as people contend with frigid weather and higher-than-normal credit card bills from the holiday season. Employers can use this occasion to check in with employees and plan their mental-health strategies for the year, says Janet […]
The costs of employer-sponsored medical benefits in Canada are expected to rise 7.5 per cent in 2023, according to a new report by Aon. The report analyzed responses from more than 100 Aon offices that broker, administer or advise on employer-sponsored medical plans across the world. Consistent with last year, it found the medical conditions […]
Co-operators Financial Services Ltd. is acquiring Mississauga, Ont.-based Smart Employee Benefits Inc. Following the acquisition, Smart Employee Benefits will continue to operate as a standalone entity, according to a press release. Read: Gallagher acquiring Buck for US$660 million “We are confident that Smart Employee Benefits is well-positioned to expand its offerings to meet the needs […]
Over the past year, a number of employers have mandated that employees return to the physical office, citing the need for in-person collaboration and social connection. The demand begs the question — will employees, who are begrudgingly reintegrating long commutes and daycare drop-offs and pickups back into their workday, be as engaged and productive as […]
Three-quarters (75 per cent) of Canadian employers say they expect to face hiring challenges in 2023, according to a new survey by the Harris Poll on behalf of Express Services Inc. The survey, which polled more than 500 employers, found more than a third (35 per cent) of employers said they experienced an increase in […]
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. is acquiring BCHR Holdings — also known as Buck — for US$660 million. Through the agreement, Gallagher will expand its retirement, benefits and human resources consulting services in Canada, the U.S. and the U.K., according to a press release, which noted Buck currently has 2,300 employees across these markets. Read: […]
PricewaterhouseCoopers Canada is supporting employees with enhanced family-building benefits. The enhanced benefits, provided by Sun Life Financial Inc., include coverage for procedures and drugs related to fertility; lab services, testing and other surrogate medical expenses; prenatal fitness classes, vitamins and other expenses related to surrogate wellness; as well as agency fees and other expenses related […]
Nearly three-quarters (74 per cent) of U.S. employers say they offer hybrid work arrangements, according to a new survey by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans. The survey, which polled more than 500 employers, found 55 per cent said they offer fully remote working arrangements while 57 per cent offer flexible work hours. In […]
Half (50 per cent) of Canadian employees say they’re currently looking for a new job or plan to begin their search in the first half of 2023, up from 31 per cent in June, according to a new survey by Robert Half Canada Inc. The survey, which polled more than 1,100 employees, found employees who’ve been […]