Jeffrey E. Burke named President and CEO of Western Financial Group (Network) Inc.

HIGH RIVER, AB, May 22, 2012 /CNW/ - Western Financial Group ("Western") President and CEO Scott Tannas announced today that Jeffrey E. Burke has been named President and CEO of Western Financial Group (Network) Inc., with responsibility for leading the company's fast-growing network of 120 insurance brokerage offices across western Canada.  Burke's appointment is effective immediately.

"Jeff offers a fresh perspective and brings a wealth of national and international experience to Western's largest business unit at just the right time," said Scott Tannas.  "His track record shows a clear ability to create, deliver and implement winning market strategies.  Jeff's proven ability to enhance the customer experience while increasing market share and profitability is truly impressive."

Burke arrives at Western with over 15 years of executive leadership experience in both Canada and the United States.  Before joining Western, he served as Senior Vice President at Allstate Canada, prior to which he held a series of increasingly responsible sales and marketing positions with both American Family Insurance and Allstate in the United States.

"I'm honoured and delighted to be joining Western at such an exciting time," said Burke. "The clear success of Western's insurance brokerage business model and the firm's rapid growth are a tribute to Scott, his leadership team, and the great people who make up this dynamic company.  Western is well positioned to harness the strength of the fast-growing western market, and I'm truly excited by this unique opportunity."

Burke has a B.A. from Bethany College, Kansas, and an M.B.A. from the University of Phoenix.

About Western Financial Group

Western Financial Group is a western Canada based, diversified, financial services company serving more than 600,000 customers. Founded in 1996 and headquartered in High River, Alberta, Western provides insurance, banking and investment products and services through more than 120 office locations, the internet (www.westernfinancialgroup.ca) and other distribution channels. With a skilled team of approximately 1,500 employees, and backed by the strong resources of its owners, Western is committed to building the strongest financial services company in western Canada.

Western Financial Group is a subsidiary of Desjardins Group, the leading cooperative financial group in Canada with assets of $190 billion.

This press release is not for distribution to any United States news service or otherwise in the United States.

James Savage
Executive Vice President
Corporate Communications and Brand Marketing
Western Financial Group
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