Mike Coyne Takes the Helm as Manulife's New General Counsel Starting September 2025

Manulife Appoints Mike Coyne as General Counsel

On August 21, 2025, Manulife Financial Corporation made a significant leadership announcement by appointing Mike Coyne as its new General Counsel, effective September 1, 2025. This move signals the company's commitment to enhance its legal framework as it prepares for challenges and opportunities in the financial sector.

Background of Mike Coyne

Mike Coyne isn't new to the world of corporate law. Before joining Manulife, he served as a Senior Fellow and Litigation Strategy Advisor at the Bank Policy Institute (BPI). The BPI is recognized as a leading non-partisan advocacy organization that supports the largest banking institutions globally. His experience there has likely equipped him with a profound understanding of both legal and regulatory landscapes, crucial for navigating complex litigation scenarios.

Prior to his time at BPI, Coyne held the position of General Counsel for the Americas at Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG). Here, he was not only a legal strategist but also an Executive Officer for MUFG, showcasing his versatility and prowess within the financial sector.

Coyne's impressive trajectory in the legal field includes over two decades spent at JPMorgan Chase & Co., where he ascended the ranks to become Senior Vice President and Associate General Counsel, ultimately serving as Global Co-Head of Litigation. This wealth of experience has prepared him to lead Manulife's legal team through intricate challenges and decisions.

What This Means for Manulife

Phil Witherington, the President and CEO of Manulife, expressed strong confidence in Coyne's ability to guide the legal department. He noted that Coyne possesses an exceptional talent for leading high-performing legal teams and managing complex situations with strategic clarity. With a keen focus on leveraging transformative technology and developing an inclusive culture, Coyne is expected to be an influential factor in shaping Manulife's legal direction and corporate ethos.

This appointment comes as Manulife prepares to embark on new initiatives aimed at enhancing its services across North America, Asia, and Europe, as well as easing customers' financial decision-making processes. With Coyne's legal acumen, Manulife is poised for a strong future, filled with strategic innovations and an ardent commitment to customer satisfaction.

Anticipated Changes with Coyne on Board

As Coyne steps into this pivotal role, he succeeds Jim Gallagher, who is retiring this month after an extensive career at Manulife. Gallagher has been a stalwart figure in steering the company through numerous legal landscapes over the years.

Coyne's approach to his role will likely include fostering collaboration within the legal department and enhancing interpersonal relationships amongst executives and legal advisors. He aims to develop a culture of professional growth and inclusivity within the team. By sponsoring and coaching colleagues, Coyne intends to prepare the next generation of legal leaders in the financial sector.

In summary, Mike Coyne's appointment as General Counsel marks a new era for Manulife Financial Corporation. His rich background in corporate law combined with strategic foresight positions him to adeptly handle the upcoming challenges and opportunities in the financial industry. As he settles into his new role, Coyne's focus will be on strengthening legal operations while fostering a culture of inclusiveness and excellence. The entire Manulife team looks forward to seeing what changes and innovations he will introduce, further positively impacting clients and stakeholders alike.

About Manulife

Manulife is a leading international financial services provider dedicated to making financial decisions more manageable for its customers. Based in Toronto, the company operates globally, focusing on offering professional financial advice and insurance services. By the end of 2024, Manulife had employed over 37,000 individuals and had a vast network of agents and distribution partners serving more than 36 million customers worldwide. The firm's commitment to customer satisfaction is at the forefront of its operations, driven by its mission to help individuals and organizations achieve their financial goals.

For more information about the company and its services, please visit manulife.com.