Mr. Darren Smith reports

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENTS NAMES MATT BLANDFORD AS DIVISIONAL SALES MANAGER FOR THE REGIONAL/FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS CHANNEL

Manulife Financial Corp.'s John Hancock Investments has promoted Matt Blandford, CRPC, to the position of divisional sales manager for the regional/financial institutions channel, assuming responsibility for distribution within Edward Jones and major banks. Mr. Blandford, who has been with John Hancock since 2008 as a regional business consultant/external wholesaler in Louisville, Ky., reports to Darren Smith, senior vice-president and national sales manager. The appointment was effective July 1.

"Matt brings a wealth of distribution experience and a history of success in all channels, and we are confident he will be a great benefit to our team as we continue to aggressively expand our reach and penetration in the regional financial institutions channel," said Mr. Smith.

Prior to joining John Hancock, where he has been named to the president's club, Mr. Blandford was with principal funds as a regional vice-president and external wholesaler. He has also held wholesaling positions with Jackson National Life Insurance and Nationwide Mutual Insurance. He graduated from the University of Kentucky. Mr. Blandford replaces Andy McFetridge, who was promoted to the role of national sales manager of the wire house channel for John Hancock.