Hal Jackman

Career

Hal Jackman began his career at the age of 25, as an Executive Assistant to a Federal Minister. His financial instincts subsequently propelled him to the top of Canada’s financial sector, where he chaired or presided over several insurance and investment companies, including National Trust and Empire Life. Hal Jackman and his family are the largest shareholders of E-L Financial Corporation, a Toronto investment and insurance holding company. His father, former Parliament member Harry Jackman, built a financial services empire, which Hal continued to expand over his decades at the helm. Jackman followed in his father’s footsteps into politics, serving as the 25th lieutenant governor of Ontario from 1991 to 1997. During this time, he became patron of more than 150 organizations in the arts, science, sports and charitable arenas. Even after Jackman’s career in public service was over, he continued to actively support many cultural, charitable and health care organizations at the local, provincial and national levels. Hal’s son, Duncan, now runs the business as chief executive officer, president and chairman of E-L Financial.

Net Worth

Hal Jackman is ranked No. 1205 on Forbes 2021 Billionaire List and is worth approximately $1.8 billion.

Achievement

Hal Jackman was appointed as a Member of the Order of Canada in 1991, and was promoted to Officer in 2000. He was inducted into the Order of Ontario in 1998. In 1997, Hal was named Chancellor of the University of Toronto. During his time as Chancellor, he was particularly generous in his support of educational initiatives, providing funding for scholarships and for the creation of a distinguished chair program. Hal Jackman has also been a longtime fundraiser for the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada, and became a supporter of the Canadian Alliance when it was formed prior to the 2000 election. He was an advocate of the Unite the Right movement which resulted in the creation of the Conservative Party of Canada. Jackman was the Chairman of the board of National Trust Company and The Empire Life Insurance Company, plus several other prominent Canadian corporations.