GUELPH, ON, Oct. 20, 2011 /CNW/ - The Co-operators has been recognized for the ninth consecutive year among Canada's best employers in the October 31 edition of Maclean's magazine, on newsstands today. International human resources firm Aon Hewitt compiles the list of the 50 Best Employers in Canada annually, using results of confidential employee surveys from workplaces across the country.

Included on the 2012 version of the list are:

• Ranked 24^th - The Co-operators, based in Guelph, Ontario, which includes co-operative holding company The Co-operators Group Ltd. as well as member companies Co-operators General Insurance Company, HB Group Insurance Management, Addenda Capital, and L'Union Canadienne
• Ranked 35^th - Co-operators Life Insurance Company of Regina, Saskatchewan

"Because this study is based primarily on confidential surveys completed by employees, we take a measure of pride in our high ranking, but we also use the data to determine what our strengths and weaknesses are, and how we can improve as an employer," said Kathy Bardswick, President and CEO of The Co-operators. "A highly engaged staff that shares the values of the organization and supports its mission is one of the greatest resources a company can have."

Across its group of companies, The Co-operators overall engagement score improved to 80 per cent this year, achieving its long-term objective. Three of the areas in which it has outperformed the average of the 50 top employers in recent years are:

• Retirement savings plans
• Corporate social responsibility
• Learning and development

Aon Hewitt's confidential employee surveys gauge "employee engagement," based on staff members' perceptions of human resources practices, policies and procedures, and alignment between staff members and senior management. Firms with high engagement scores tend to attract and retain employees, and their staff members are committed to achieving corporate goals.

About The Co-operators:
The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian-owned co-operative with more than $41 billion in assets under administration. Through its group of companies it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is ranked #1 among the 50 Best Corporate Citizens in Canada by Corporate Knights, and listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada. For more information visit www.cooperators.ca.