TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - May 9, 2016) - Empire Life Investments Inc. today announced Ian Hardacre, MBA, CFA, has joined the investment management team as Senior Portfolio Manager, Canadian Equities. Hardacre will be responsible for managing the flagship Empire Life Dividend Growth GIF and the Empire Life Dividend Growth Mutual Fund.

"We are excited to have Ian join us as he brings over 20 years of investment expertise managing Canadian equities with a value-oriented philosophy and approach that aligns with ours," says Gaelen Morphet, CFA, Senior Vice-President and Chief Investment Officer of Empire Life Investments Inc. "The addition of Ian is testament to our commitment to managing tactical portfolios with a focus on downside protection."

Lieh Wang, CFA, has been appointed Senior Portfolio Manager, U.S. Equities. Wang will be responsible for managing the Empire Life American Value GIF. Lieh joined the investment team in 2009 and has over 20 years of investment expertise.

"Lieh delivered exceptional performance during his tenure on the Dividend Growth mandates, which included managing the U.S. and international components of the funds," says Morphet. "Lieh has worked closely with me over the last few months to manage the Empire Life American Value GIF, making him the natural lead manager for U.S. equities. I am very pleased to recognize Lieh for his expertise in this area with this appointment."

"These appointments reinforce our commitment to the investment business and strengthen our investment team so we are well positioned to continue delivering strong, consistent performance for our customers," says Mark Sylvia, President and Chief Executive Officer of Empire Life.

About Empire Life Investments Inc.

Empire Life Investments Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Empire Life Insurance Company. The company manages and offers mutual funds and is the portfolio manager of the Empire Life segregated funds, including the Empire Life Guaranteed Investment Funds. The company manages more than $14.5 billion in assets, and helps Canadians build wealth and protect their financial security.

About Empire Life

Empire Life is a subsidiary of E-L Financial Corporation Limited. Since 1923, Empire Life has provided competitive individual and group life and health insurance, investment and retirement to Canadians. Our mission is to make it simple, fast and easy for Canadians to build wealth, generate income and get the insurance and group benefits coverage they need. Follow Empire Life on Twitter @EmpireLife or visit our website, www.empire.ca for more information.