REGINA, Oct. 15 /CNW/ - Regina-based Co-operators Life Insurance Company was among the workplaces listed as Canada's Top 100 Employers, which was announced today. The list was compiled following an extensive application process undertaken by employers and a detailed review of their operations and human resources practices.

Each workplace was evaluated and compared to others in its industry and geographic region. A blue-ribbon panel of academics served as the advisory board, overseeing the selection criteria which were grouped under eight key areas: Physical Workplace; Work Atmosphere and Social; Health, Financial & Family Benefits; Vacation & Time Off; Employee Communications; Performance Management; Training and Skills Development; and Community Involvement.

"As part of a co-operative, we place great emphasis on our values and our commitment to Canadian communities, and that comes through in the culture of the organization at every level," said Mavis Whiting, Vice President, Human Resources of Co-operators Life. "Our approach is to provide our staff members with support and training to help them achieve their career goals, while also supporting their wellness and providing flexibility to balance their professional and personal lives."

The appreciation the company's more than 750 employees have for their workplace is reflected in the turnover rate which is significantly lower than the industry average. In addition to competitive compensation and benefits, they have access to generous training and development opportunities and wellness initiatives that support healthy lifestyles. Flexible schedules help balance work with other commitments, and each staff member can take two paid days each year to volunteer with community organizations.

This marks the fourth time that Co-operators Life has made the list. For more information and a complete listing of Canada's Top 100 Employers, visit www.eluta.ca. For more information about The Co-operators career opportunities and human resource practices, visit http://careers.cooperators.ca.

About The Co-operators:

Co-operators Life Insurance Company, with its head office in Regina, is the second largest member of The Co-operators - a group of Canadian companies offering home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators Group Limited is a 100 per cent Canadian-owned co-operative with assets of more than $7 billion. It is owned by a group of Canadian co-operatives, credit union centrals and like-minded organizations. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement.