Manulife Investments has appointed Michelle Ostermann as its assistant vice president of guaranteed investment products, Manulife Financial Inc. (TSX:MFC) announced Wednesday.

Ostermann brings to Manulife more than 17 years of experience in the insurance industry where she has held several investment, business development and product roles at other leading insurance companies.

In this new role, Ostermann is responsible for all aspects of product management, development and strategy. Her team’s comprehensive product suite includes Manulife’s $35 billion Canadian retail segregated funds, payout annuities, GICs and the recently launched Manulife PensionBuilder.

“Michelle will bring added knowledge and expertise to our already strong investments team,” shares Paul Lorentz, president, Manulife Investments. “She has impressed us with her leadership and team building skills as well as her experience with wealth product development. She’s a great fit.”

Ostermann holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics and is a CFA charter holder. She and her family reside in Waterloo, Ont. where she is an active member in her community, most notably volunteering for the local Junior Achievement organization.