Lockton, the world's largest privately held independent insurance brokerage, has announced the strategic appointment of industry veteran Stéphane Lespérance as Chief Executive Officer of its new Canadian business. This milestone appointment underscores the company's commitment to delivering enhanced, high-level advisory support to Canadian enterprises.
Lespérance's Mandate
Lespérance is given a mandate to deliver client-first risk, people, and benefits solutions built specifically for Canadian businesses. Widely recognized as a leading figure in the Canadian insurance sector, he joins Lockton following 24 years in progressively senior roles at Aon Canada, where he served as President since 2019 and as President and CEO since 2025. His proven track record of elevating client service by developing and implementing complex risk management strategies for large multinational organizations across North America, Europe, and Asia, as well as building elite advisory teams, makes him uniquely positioned to shape the next phase of Lockton's Canadian offerings.
Strategic Importance
The appointment reflects Lockton's focus on building a Canadian-led organization to support businesses navigating a dynamic operating environment, with rising pressure across risk and people solutions. Ron Lockton, Chairman and CEO of Lockton, commented: "Canada is one of the world's top 10 insurance markets, a sophisticated, globally connected economy where businesses are navigating increasingly complex, interconnected risks. Through our longstanding relationships in Canada, we've consistently heard the need for deeper specialization and a truly client-centric advisory model. Lockton's independent structure allows us to meet that need in a meaningful way. Bringing on a leader of Stéphane's caliber speaks to the strength and appeal of our privately held model. He brings the experience, credibility, and strategic vision required to deliver a premier advisory experience for clients across Canada."
Lockton's Approach in Canada
Lockton's approach in Canada centers on bringing its independent, privately held model to a market where mid- and large-market companies are seeking more tailored advice across a full range of risk and workforce-related challenges. The company's strategy will combine Canadian leadership and local market judgment with global expertise, aligning the Canadian retail business with Lockton's global network to offer unique products and services in the Canadian market and better serve businesses operating in Canada.
Lespérance's Vision
Stéphane Lespérance, incoming Chief Executive Officer of Lockton's Canadian retail business, stated: "More than ever, Canadian businesses need a partner who understands the increasingly complex risk environment they face, from trade and supply chain uncertainty and cyber threats to workforce pressures, rising benefits costs, climate resilience, and sector-specific challenges. Lockton's independent model is highly relevant to the Canadian market today. It provides the freedom to build a truly client-centric platform, allowing us to focus on long-term client success. I'm excited to bring together a collaborative team of experts to deliver exceptional results for our Canadian clients."
