Zurich Canada launches innovative apprenticeship program in collaboration with Seneca Polytechnic
Combining education and work experience to empower the next generation of insurance professionals
Zurich Insurance Company Ltd (Canadian Branch) (Zurich Canada) today announced the launch of its new Apprenticeship Program, a unique initiative that blends education with practical work experience. As the back-to-school season approaches, we are excited to welcome the first cohort of selected applicants, who will begin their journey in September 2024.
The Zurich Apprenticeship Program offers successful candidates complimentary enrolment in the Business – Insurance diploma program at Seneca Polytechnic. This two-year program integrates academic coursework with relevant work rotations at Zurich Canada.
"We are proud to partner with Seneca Polytechnic to launch the Zurich Apprenticeship Program. These two-year journeys will allow participants to complete a diploma while launching a corporate career in the global insurance industry," said Elizabeth McSavaney, Head of Human Resources, Zurich Canada. "This initiative reflects our commitment to nurturing future leaders by providing both academic and practical experience. We look forward to seeing our first cohort start this September and to their future contributions to our industry."
Participants will benefit from a comprehensive package that includes tuition, fees, and books fully paid by Zurich Canada. They will follow a hybrid schedule of courses at Seneca Polytechnic, allowing them to work part-time while completing their Ontario College Diploma. Additionally, participants will gain access to Seneca’s extensive student services and supports, including accessible learning resources, career planning, financial aid, advising, and more.
“We are delighted that the first group of students is about to start this unique program that will prepare them to be career-ready for demanding roles in the insurance industry,” says Jeff McCarthy, Dean, Seneca Business. “Combining academic rigour with meaningful exposure to the workforce is at the heart of our mission to provide great polytechnic education, and Zurich has been a fantastic partner in creating this groundbreaking program.”
Graduates of the program will have the opportunity to earn eight credits toward the internationally recognized Chartered Insurance Professional designation and secure a full-time position at Zurich Canada.
For more information about the Zurich Apprenticeship Program and future application cycles, visit the Zurich Canada website.
Media contact
Kate Moseley-Williams
Director of Communications, Zurich Canada
Email: kate.moseleywilliams@zurich.com
Phone: 416-892-9537
About Zurich Canada
Zurich Canada has been a leader in the Canadian insurance market for 100 years — now offering both large and middle market commercial, and other specialty coverages. With employees in offices across the country, we combine global reach with local service and knowledge. Through a thoughtful and transparent approach, our dedicated regional teams help mitigate and manage risks and build resilience to better protect Canadian businesses, communities and families. Our team is there in tough times to help customers respond and recover quickly.
We will continue to evolve to support customers, brokers and employees in an ever-changing environment. In addition to providing insurance protection, we are increasingly offering prevention services such as those that promote well-being and enhance climate resilience.
We strive to build a workplace that is representative of the communities we serve. Zurich Canada is committed to creating a workplace that puts the well-being of people first and where everyone can contribute, grow and feel a sense of belonging.
About Seneca Polytechnic
Seneca Polytechnic provides a great education to prepare our students for great careers. Combining academic rigour with practical, professional and career-focused learning, we offer our students a seamless transition from education to employment. Expert faculty, excellent staff, outstanding campuses, awesome technology, deep connections with industry: that’s Seneca Polytechnic. Learn more: senecapolytechnic.ca.