Jessica Tan: Supporting Canadians in uncertain times

Canadians are living through a period of real complexity. Economic pressure, changing health needs, and longer lifespans are reshaping how people think about their future. In this environment, organizations play an increasingly important role in supporting Canadians both today and for the long term. Sun Life Canada President Jessica Tan shares her thoughts on what Canadians are experiencing, how innovation and collaboration can help meet evolving needs, and why building confidence and resilience matters right now. 

What are you hearing from Canadians right now? 

What stands out to me is how much people are carrying at once. Canadians are thinking about their health, their finances, and their families together, often while planning further into the future than previous generations. About a third of Canadians say they find it challenging to plan for retirement, six in 10 Canadians are concerned about the rising cost of everyday expenses like groceries, and roughly 40 percent say their mental health is being impacted by financial stress.  

That weight is real. And it’s why confidence and resilience matter more than ever. People want to feel protected if something unexpected happens. They want to know care will be there when they need it, and that the choices they make today will still hold up years from now. When things feel uncertain, trust becomes even more important. 

So how should organizations innovate to help build that trust? 

For me, innovation has to start with real human needs. It’s about removing those barriers and connecting the dots by creating experiences that feel simple, connected and human across life stages. Technology and tools can help us do that by bringing information together, reducing steps, and making it easier for people to get the right support at the right time. When we use technology with intention, it helps people move forward with more confidence and makes support feel easier. 

Health matters deeply to Canadians. Where can we make the biggest difference right now?  

The healthcare of Canadians has never been more important. Across the country, people are managing more complex health needs at various stages of life. It’s complex and can often be challenging to navigate. We all have a role to play in helping people access the tools, resources and support to manage their health, for today, and in the future.   
  
When organizations across sectors and communities work together, we can help people focus on what they actually need to stay healthy, expanding access earlier, closer to home, and in more practical ways. That leads to better prevention, stronger communities, and healthier lives over time. Even small, targeted efforts can have a real impact when they’re designed around people and focused on their holistic health and wellbeing.  A great example of this is Sun Life’s menopause care offering that includes personalized care plans, clinical support and coaching for plan members. 

You often talk about Purpose and working across sectors. Why does that matter right now? 

It matters because people’s lives don’t fit neatly into systems. Health, finances, work, and caregiving are all connected. When one part gets harder, everything else feels harder too. No single organization can solve that on its own.  

That’s where Purpose matters. At Sun Life, our Purpose is to help Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives. That Purpose comes to life as we serve 12 million Canadians across health, wealth and protection. It also shapes how we work, bringing together partners and capabilities to deliver integrated solutions that are practical and easier to use.  

There’s urgency here. People’s needs are changing, and they’re changing quickly. Progress comes when we work together with a shared responsibility and focus on outcomes that truly make life easier for Canadians. 

What gives you confidence as you look ahead? 

I’m confident because Canada has real strengths—especially its people. We have talent, strong institutions, and a deep sense of community. Even when things are challenging, there’s a willingness to work together and think long term.  

As I’ve shared, there’s a real opportunity to innovate. When we bring health, technology, and financial security together, we can build solutions that make life easier and help people move forward with confidence. Technology gives us the ability to remove friction and reach people in more meaningful ways. If we keep focused on outcomes, use technology with intention, and support one another, we can help Canadians build confidence and become more resilient for what’s ahead.