CPO Pam Kimmet set to retire, with Pragashini Fox stepping into role
Manulife has announced that Pam Kimmet, the company's Chief Human Resources Officer, will retire at the end of May 2025. She will be succeeded by Pragashini Fox, who will take over as Chief People Officer on June 1, 2025.
Kimmet has served as Manulife's CHRO since October 2018, following her appointment to the Executive Leadership Team, and two years after she joined as a Board member in 2016.
"Pam has played a key role in helping to create a strong culture that is not only a point of pride for our global colleagues, but also a competitive advantage that is foundational to our success," said Roy Gori, President & CEO of Manulife, in a letter announcing Kimmet's retirement.
Kimmet's career spans over two decades, during which she held senior leadership roles in human resources across several global companies, including being elected as a Fellow in the National Academy of Human Resources in 2009.
Her efforts at Manulife have also led to significant programmes such as Podium and Pursuit, which have advanced the company's goals on inclusion and employee engagement, according to Gori.
"I want to thank Pam for her support, friendship, and dedication to helping transform Manulife over the last several years," Gori said in the letter to employees, as shared with HRD.
Fox joins Manulife
Meanwhile, Fox joins Manulife from Thomson Reuters, where she has held dual leadership roles as the Head of Talent and Diversity, as well as Head of HR for Product, Operations, and Technology.
Prior to this, she spent 18 years at the Royal Bank of Canada, where she held several leadership roles in HR and talent management.
"Pragashini's experience, global orientation, digital expertise, strong business acumen, and appreciation for the work we do make her an ideal successor for Pam," Gori stated. "She has a passion for helping global teams embrace a growth-mindset and foster the tenacity and resilience to reach for new heights."
Fox will join Manulife on January 13, 2025, to ensure a smooth transition ahead of Kimmet's retirement. She will be based in Toronto, where she and her family currently reside, according to Gori.
