A word from Key Media
Paul Lucas Global Managing Editor Insurance Business
Award Categories
What to expect on the night
2023 Sponsors
The Westland Insurance Group Award for P&C Insurer of the Year
The who’s who of Canada’s insurance industry were to be found at the Liberty Grand in Toronto this past November, celebrating the best of the best at the eighth annual Insurance Business Canada Awards. The event, a highlight of the insurance industry calendar, has been recognized as a leading independent awards program within the industry. The evening saw outstanding brokers, brokerages, insurers, underwriters, MGAs, and risk managers honoured for their achievements, leadership, and innovation. The event drew insurance industry leaders from across the country to network and celebrate the successes of their peers in the industry – and have a little fun, too.
Photobooth Sponsor
Award Sponsors
Official Media
Organizer
Methodology
more
Excellence Awardees
Nominations The call for nominations was open to all insurance professionals and organizations – brokers, brokerages, insurers, underwriters, MGAs, risk managers, and service providers – from across Canada.
Excellence Awardees Once all nominations were considered and research was complete, Excellence Awardees were selected in each category (except the Lifetime Achievement category) and notified via email or phone.
Judging All submissions from our Excellence Awardees were forwarded to the independent judging panel comprising industry leaders and senior representatives. The panel assessed and voted for their winners in each category according to the relevant category criteria. Voting commenced in October 2023 and their judgment was impartial, balanced, incisive, and fair. Any judge with a conflict of interest in a category recused themselves from judging that category.
Awards Ceremony The winners in each category will be announced at the Insurance Business Awards gala dinner on Friday 15 September 2023 at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney. Winners will also be published on Insurance Business website.
Find out more
Life & Health Insurer of the Year
The Steamatic Canada Award for Woman of Distinction
Brokerage of the Year (1-5 Staff)
Brokerage of the Year (6-20 Staff)
Brokerage of the Year (20+ Staff)
The Travelers Canada Award for Brokerage of the Year (Fewer Than 10 Staff)
The PAL Insurance Brokers Award for Young Achiever of the Year
The Cansure Award for Insurance Broker of the Year
The CNA Award for Excellence in Philanthropy & Community Service
The FIRST Insurance Funding of Canada Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Insurance Industry
The Armour Insurance Brokers Award for CEO of the Year
Celebrating excellence in our insurance industry
Desmond Devoy of Insurance Business Canada brings you the voices of the winners and sponsors at the 2023 Insurance Business Awards in Toronto
Each year as I come to write this introduction for the Insurance Business Canada Awards, I am drawn to the challenges of the previous 12 months and the incredible resilience shown by each of you. In 2020 and 2021, of course, those challenges revolved around the COVID-19 pandemic and the switch to remote work, while 2022 often focused on the “return to normal.” 2023, meanwhile, has been about a cost-of-living crisis, rate rises, and spiralling inflation that have made insurance a hard sell, even as it carries so much importance as a financial safeguard. As insurance brokers, you’ve had to find solutions for your clients in testing circumstances – you’ve had to guide them as they reflect on new restraints, and, often, you may even have been a shoulder to cry on. Meanwhile, insurers, underwriters, risk managers, and those across the sector have faced a ripple effect – a need to take new approaches, revise policies, rewrite wordings, or, in some cases, even take a hit to your own business. It's not been easy – but as each of you attending the Insurance Business Canada Awards proves, you’ve found a way not only to survive, but to thrive. For that you have our admiration and respect – and this is a celebration you thoroughly deserve. For some, the awards will crown winners, but make no mistake: if you have a seat at this table, then you have already been crowned for excellence. We wholeheartedly thank you for joining us and hope that you enjoy the Insurance Business Canada Awards 2023.
The Burns & Wilcox Award for Big Brokerage of the Year (100 Staff or More)
Australian General Insurer of the Year
Underwriting Agencies Council Australian Underwriting Agency of the Year
Best Service Provider – Claims
Outstanding Customer Experience Award
Excellence in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Business Development Manager of the Year
“It’s been a great event. You can’t pass up something like this where you’re getting 500 to 600 insurance professionals in a room,” said Erin Gattoni, vice president, human resources at CNA Canada. “We’re a pretty fun group, which people really don’t see that often.” CNA took home the award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. “It’s a great event. It’s nice to have our broker partners, our insurance partners, and the MGAs all celebrate the industry together in one place,” said Brett Graham, president, Agile Underwriting Solutions. “So it’s amazing to be here.” Graham’s team won the Beneva Award for MGA of the Year. Tim Mackie, executive vice president, distribution at Westland Insurance, already knows he is part of a wonderful company, but “to be recognized in and among a group of peers who were recognized tonight is quite humbling and really exciting actually… It’s a true testament to our teams.” Westland won the Burns & Wilcox Award for Big Brokerage of the Year (100 Staff or More). "We’re thrilled to win [this] again,” said Kevin Lea, president of three-time-winner Fuse Insurance, of their hat-trick with the Travelers Canada Award for Brokerage of the Year (Fewer Than 10 Staff). And he believes that the win puts Fuse “on a great trajectory, and we really appreciate the support of Insurance Business Canada and everyone in this room.” Celebrating diversity and inclusion The awards were also a celebration of how far women have advanced within the industry – and a reminder of how much remains to be done, as was highlighted with the Steamatic Canada Award for Woman of Distinction. “There are so many amazing women in this category here today,” said Melissa Bajwa, vice president, compliance and broker network operations at PROLINK Insurance, who took home the award. “So it is a complete honour to take that award. But there is so much more work to be done with women and insurance in our industry, and with diversity, that we’ve only just begun. And even though I just won this award, there is so much more that I want to do.” The celebration of leading women did not end there. Carol Jardine, retired president of Wawanesa Insurance, found it “humbling” to be honoured with the First Insurance Funding of Canada Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Insurance Industry. “I’m not sure I deserve it, but I’m appreciative of those people who do think I deserve it,” Jardine said. The event drew attendees from far and wide, including Canada’s “Far East,” Newfoundland and Labrador. “Always a great event,” said Adam Nolan, COO and vice president of Munn Insurance, who will be bringing the XN Worldwide Insurance Award for Brokerage of the Year (10–100 Staff) back to Atlantic Canada with him. “Coming from Newfoundland, you come to an event like this, you see a lot of intelligent people, a lot of successful organizations. So just to rub shoulders and be considered one of the best is really a proud moment for us.” Ecclesiastical Insurance PLC was able to double its pleasure that evening, winning both the Westmoreland Insurance Group Award for P&C Insurer of the Year and the CNA Award for Excellence in Philanthropy and Community Services. “At Ecclesiastical, we are committed to protecting the needs of organizations that enrich the lives of others; to preserving Canada’s distinct communities, cultures, and history; and to supporting initiatives that help improve the lives of people in need,” said Ecclesiastical Insurance’s president, David Huebel. “We strive to do this every day, not only through the expertise of our specialist teams but also through the products and value-added services we provide to our customers. And for us, charitable giving is at the core of who we are: it is our mission and the very reason we exist.” Sponsors speak out The night was also a chance for sponsors to shine. Burns & Wilcox, the title sponsors for Big Brokerage of the Year, were proud to support the awards. “In the face of ongoing market challenges and economic uncertainties, it is important to acknowledge the companies, teams, and individuals who are leading the future of our industry,” said Tyson Peel, vice president, Burns & Wilcox. CNA Canada sponsored the Award for Excellence in Philanthropy and Community Service. “We are dedicated to supporting and positively affecting our diverse communities, and we applaud the charitable efforts of our Excellence Awardees, who are leading the way for our industry’s progress,” said Nick Creatura, president and CEO of CNA Canada. Beneva sponsored the Award for MGA of the Year. Shirely Marquis, Beneva’s vice president of brokerage networks, said that, as the largest mutual insurance company in Canada, it is “bringing insurance back to what it’s about: putting people first. This includes supporting all the professionals who go above and beyond to protect Canadians and deliver a standout experience that translates into true peace of mind. We are honoured to celebrate the individuals taking part in this year’s Excellence Awards.” Travelers Canada sponsored the Award for Brokerage of the Year (Fewer Than 10 Staff), and it was proud to help get out the good-news stories about the men and women who make up the industry. “The insurance industry has an important story to tell about the incredible work we do to support the businesses and people in our communities,” said Heather Masterson, president and CEO, Travelers Canada. “Behind those stories are talented professionals who show up every day to do their very best, and having a night dedicated to celebrating such achievements is something Travelers Canada is thrilled to support. Congratulations to all the winners and Excellence Awardees this year.” For more on the event, check out this video.
Research The Insurance Business Canada Awards team conducted research and drew on knowledge and information gained through Insurance Business Canada to support and supplement nominations received and to ensure that no one deserving of recognition was missed. Excellence Awardees were determined from both pools of information.
METHODOLOGY
JUDGING PANEL
AWARD CATEGORIES
SPONSORS
AGENDA
Robyn Young
Margaret Wasserman
Catherine Smola
Steve Masnyk
Keith Martin
Anne Kleffner
Nicole Hackney, CIP
Vinita Jajware-Beatty
Justina Ikwu
Teresa Drijber, FCIP
Dionne Bowers
Christopher Aloussis
Thank you to our esteemed judges for lending their time and expertise to help recognize and celebrate excellence in the insurance profession.
2023 Judging Panel
Armour Insurance Brokers Ltd. is a leading Canadian brokerage, recognized for its expertise in complex risks. Founded in 2010 by Sukhdeep Kang, Armour is headquartered in Mississauga, ON with operations in multiple provinces in Canada. Armour offers all kinds of transportation, commercial, and personal insurance. Armour’s mission is to be the client’s advocate while protecting their assets with a high degree of professionalism, empathy, and respect. Armour is recognized in the industry and among clients for its strong experience, responsive client service, excellent product knowledge, proactive risk management and loss control, and its unique claims advocacy processes. Armour’s strength rests in its diversified, knowledgeable, and courteous staff. Armour is dedicated to its customers and insurance partners and is always looking to strive excellence in professionalism. Website: www.armour-insurance.com
Award Sponsor
Margaret Wasserman Vice President Operations Insurance Institute of Canada
Catherine Smola President and CEO Centre for Study of Insurance Operations (CSIO)
Steve Masnyk Managing Director, Canadian Association of Managing General Agents
Keith Martin Co-Executive Director Canadian Association of Financial Institutions in Insurance
Anne Kleffner Professor and Chairholder, Insurance and Risk Management University of Calgary
Nicole Hackney, CIP Training and Research Officer, Ontario Mutual Insurance Association
Vinita Jajware-Beatty President Toronto Insurance Women’s Association (TIWA)
Justina Ikwu President, Canadian Association of Urban Financial Professionals (CAUFP)
Teresa Drijber, FCIP Retired; Arbitration Director, CICMA Ontario Chapter Special Projects Director, CICMA National Chapter
Christopher Aloussis Co-Chair, Link Canada: 2SLGBTQ+ Insurance network
Dionne Bowers Co-Founder / Vice-Chair Canadian Association of Black Insurance Professionals (CABIP)
A word from our event partner
The Beneva Award for MGA of the Year
Christopher Aloussis Co-Chair Link Canada: 2SLGBTQ+ Insurance network
Created by the coming together of La Capitale and SSQ Insurance, Beneva is the largest insurance mutual in Canada with more than 3.5 million members and clients. Beneva employs over 5,000 dedicated employees: people looking out for people. Its human approach is rooted in mutualist values that are shared by its employees. With $26.8 billion in assets, Beneva positions itself as a major player in the insurance and financial services industry. Its head office is located in Quebec City. Website: beneva.ca
For over 50 years, Burns & Wilcox has been uniquely focused on the success of the agents and brokers with whom we work. No matter the type of coverage, from the more routine to the large, complex and hard-to place, our 2000+ professionals possess a relentless commitment to applying their expertise to their clients’ needs day in and day out. This results in the right answer, right now for both long-term partners and new relationships. Website: burnsandwilcox.ca
Cansure is a leading Canadian insurance supplier servicing brokers across the country. As an open market, Cansure is accessible by all licensed brokers in Canada and seek to be a first-choice supplier offering breadth of products to protect both standard and non-standard risks across personal and commercial lines. Known for their creative underwriting solutions and expertise, Cansure continues to sustain strong financial security supported by both global and domestic partnerships. Website: cansure.com
Champagne Sponsor
CNA is one of the largest U.S. commercial property and casualty insurance companies. Backed by more than 120 years of experience, CNA provides a broad range of standard and specialized insurance products and services for businesses and professionals in the U.S., Canada and Europe. Website: www.cnacanada.ca
FIRST Insurance Funding of Canada (FIRST Canada) provides the Canadian Insurance Market with comprehensive payment solutions. Brokers, MGAs, and carriers can partner with FIRST Canada and expand their offering to provide more value, choice, and convenience for all their clients. The combined strength of FIRST Canada’s dedicated team, evolved offering, and innovative platform positions its partners to meet the demanding future of the Canadian Insurance landscape. Armed with market-leading solutions for success, FIRST Canada is part of Wintrust (Nasdaq: WTFC) family of companies with more than $54 billion in assets and a part of the largest premium finance companies in North America. Follow FIRST Canada on LinkedIn and Twitter. Website: firstinsurancefunding.ca
PAL Insurance Brokers Canada has been Canada’s leading Specialty MGA for over 25 years. PAL was founded by Bob Morrison in Calgary in 1989 and expanded to include an office in Simcoe, Ontario. PAL is a family business and includes Bob’s wife, two daughters, grandson and granddaughter. PAL’s online platform is very popular with brokers as it allows quick and easy access to many of PAL’s programs. Responsiveness to brokers is one of PAL’s top priorities, whether in providing top-notch customer service to its brokers or in the creation of several programs in direct response to broker demand. PAL can provide Canada-wide coverage for Special Events, Fairs, Festivals, Exhibitions, Weddings, Contents in Storage, Exhibitor / Vendor Booth & Kiosk liability, Caterers, Servers, Performers, Event Planners, Event Cancellation, Prize Indemnity – Hole in One, and Miscellaneous Property, as well as PAL’s newest program, Collectables Insurance. PAL’s younger generation continues to lead PAL into the twenty-first century by responding to shifting customer needs and technological advances. Website: palcanada.com
Best Service Provider – InsurTech
Digital Innovation in a Brokerage
Entertainment Partner
SongDivision are the global leaders in musical experiences and pioneers in interactive entertainment. Above all they are a people engagement company. Since 2003 they have helped thousands of organisations around the world to strengthen connections between their people and have worked in 30 different countries, 15 different languages and played with world renowned artists such as Aerosmith, Guns N Roses, John Farnham, Guy Sebastian & more. Contact details: Katy Aldrich Phone: +61 370 655 923 Email: katy@songdivision.com Website: www.songdivision.com
Winners Using a simple points system to aggregate judges’ votes, the Excellence Awardee with the top score in a category was named the winner. Winners were announced at the awards show on November 16, 2023, and on the website. They were also promoted in Insurance Business Canada.
Robyn Young Insurance Brokers Association of Canada (IBAC)
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023 | LIBERTY GRAND TORONTO
Australian Young Gun of the Year
Australian Brokerage of the Year
Australian Broker of the Year
Social Media Sponsor
In Support of
Underwriter of the Year
The XN Worldwide Insurance Award for Brokerage of the Year (10-100 Staff)
All Excellence Awardees were then invited to complete a detailed submission, which is an opportunity to address the category criteria in more detail. All submissions remain confidential unless otherwise marked and are not shared with any third parties other than the judges. Excellence Awardees were officially announced in August 2023 on the website and promoted in Insurance Business Canada magazine and online channels.
Steamatic is a world-renowned company specializing in restoration, disaster recovery and specialty cleaning. The Canadian division, founded more than 50 years ago, benefits from one of the largest franchise networks in the world. The Steamatic trademark (operating under BMS Technologies outside the United States and Canada) has been innovating year after year with representatives in the United States, South America, Europe and Australia. Steamatic Canada is now headed by Nancy Raymond, an elite entrepreneur recognized throughout the province of Quebec for having led her disaster banner for 10 years. Accompanied by her experienced insurance and disaster management team, its goal is to develop the network to become one of the biggest players in the industry at the Canadian level. Website: steamatic.ca
Westland Insurance Group is one of the largest and fastest-growing independent property and casualty insurance brokers in Canada. With a national presence of over 190 locations and nearly 2,100 employees, the company continues to expand coast to coast. Westland’s brokers provide expert advice to home, business, farm, life and auto insurance clients. Since its founding in 1980, Westland has remained a family-owned company that is committed to supporting its local communities. Website: westlandinsurance.ca
Travelers Canada is a leading provider of property and casualty insurance for home, auto and business across Canada. The Canadian arm of The Travelers Companies, Inc., we are part of an industry-leading organization backed by 160 years of experience and $103 billion of assets. Our expertise and focus on innovation have made us a leader in personal, business and specialty insurance and the only property and casualty company in the Dow Jones Industrial Average. Every day, our 30,000 employees and 13,500 brokers and agents in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Brazil help deliver peace of mind to our customers. Website: www.TravelersCanada.ca
Part of the Henner Group as a global leader in the insurance industry; XN has become one of the top MGA’s (Managing General Agent) specializing in niche P&C and A&H international and domestic insurance programs such as international expatriate benefits and property liability insurance solutions. XN is backed by our A-rated carriers known worldwide, including the Lloyd’s of London. Website: xn.com
Celebrating 70 years in Canada, ServiceMaster Restore is your trusted source for full-service restoration. Our experts are ready to respond to your needs big or small, day or night. We mitigate damages quickly to reduce loss severity for residential and commercial properties following fire, water, vandalism, natural disasters and more. Website: servicemasterrestore.ca
Royal Claims Services Ltd. is a Lloyd’s Third Party Administrator dedicated to serving the niche and specialty market. The organization was established to enhance its sister company, Special Risk Insurance Managers, fulfilling a need for a dedicated claims service for its clients. Both organizations maintain a strong focus on service and quality. Since it’s inception as a one person organization, Royal Claims has grown to include over 100 years of claims experience in almost all lines of the industry. The experience shared by the group allows Royal Claims to handle some of the most challenging and diverse losses in the industry. Service and quality are what Royal Claims was built on and continue to be the cornerstones of the company as it grows. Website: royalclaims.ca
WICC (Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade) unites and engages the Canadian P&C Insurance community to fund cancer research, support and education, and improve the lives of those affected by cancer. Since its inception in 1996, with the help of the entire insurance industry and its supporters, WICC has raised more than $17 million nationally in support of the Canadian Cancer Society. Website: wicc.ca
In Support
Justina Ikwu President Canadian Association of Urban Financial Professionals (CAUFP)
Nicole Hackney, CIP Training and Research Officer Ontario Mutual Insurance Association
Steve Masnyk Managing Director Canadian Association of Managing General Agents
Commemorative Guide
Cansure is a leading Canadian insurance supplier servicing brokers across the country. As an open market, Cansure is accessible by all licensed brokers in Canada and seek to be a first-choice supplier offering breadth of products to protect both standard and non-standard risks across personal and commercial lines. Known for their creative underwriting solutions and expertise, Cansure continues to sustain strong financial security supported by both global and domestic partnerships. For more information, visit www.cansure.com.
BACK
This award recognizes the service provider in claims that adds the most value to the business of insurance professionals, allows insurance professionals to maximize their business and help clients achieve their goals and who is making a major contribution to general insurance claims in Canada.
Baker Tilly DSB Claims Royal Claims Services Sedgwick
Shore Financial
Specialty Claims Canada
WINNER
This award recognizes the service provider in insurtech that adds the most value to the business of insurance professionals, allows insurance professionals to maximize their business and help clients achieve their goals.
3Tree Calefy Inc. Crawford & Company (Canada) Inc FIRST Insurance Funding of Canada Foxquilt Goose Digital Quandri QuickFacts Inc Vertafore Canada
FRISS
This award recognizes the individual BDM within the insurance space who is pushing the envelope in business development, client service and education, and has demonstrated commitment to brokers and developing knowledge of markets.
Alexander Rei, Echelon Insurance Camilla Cannell, Allianz Global Assistance Darren D'Aguilar, HSB Canada Debbie Arnold, Sound Insurance Services Denise Yeng, Specialty Program Group Canada Drew MacArthur, Travelers Canada Jocelyn St-Onge, Allianz Trade in Canada Madison Cheffins, Agile Underwriting Solutions Inc. Mike Farrell, Allianz Trade in Canada
RAISE Underwriting
Diana Ho
This award is given to the brokerage that has best harnessed technology and digital solutions to improve their business, aid their brokers, and leverage overall client experience over the last 12-18 months. This category looks at the organizations use of digital platform/solution/resource/software/ such as (but not limited to) CRM, digital marketing, mobile technology, electronic document management, connectivity platforms, and collaboration tools.
Fuse Insurance Ltd. Munn Insurance Surex UW Insure Brokers
View profile
Boardwalk Insurance
This award recognizes an organization in the Insurance space that has diversity and inclusion at the heart of its business, providing programs for employees from five groups including women, members of visible minorities, persons with disabilities, Aboriginal peoples and the LGBTI community.
Aviva Canada Burns & Wilcox Canada Definity Desjardins Insurance Corporation of British Columbia Medavie Blue Cross
Pacific Blue Cross
CNA Canada
PROLINK Insurance Inc. RAISE Underwriting Specialty Program Group Canada Travelers Canada
This award of excellence is presented to the outstanding life and health insurance company in Canada providing top-tier life and health insurance products to consumers and businesses with an exemplary level of client service.
Beneva Manulife Medavie Blue Cross TD Insurance
Desjardins
This award acknowledges insurances companies, offices and independent adjusting firms with a proven track record of providing their clients with superior support. Whether it is providing best-in-class assistance or reducing turnaround times, customer support is essential for client satisfaction. This award recognizes the industry player that has mastered that service and is number one on all fronts.
AEGIS London Assumption Life Billyard Insurance Group CNA Canada Leibel Insurance Group Medavie Blue Cross Northbridge Insurance Travelers Canada
APRIL Marine
Armour Insurance Brokers Ltd. is a leading Canadian brokerage, recognized for its expertise in complex risks. Founded in 2010 by Sukhdeep Kang, Armour is headquartered in Mississauga, ON with operations in multiple provinces in Canada. Armour offers all kinds of transportation, commercial, and personal insurance. Armour’s mission is to be the client’s advocate while protecting their assets with a high degree of professionalism, empathy, and respect. Armour is recognized in the industry and among clients for its strong experience, responsive client service, excellent product knowledge, proactive risk management and loss control, and its unique claims advocacy processes. Armour’s strength rests in its diversified, knowledgeable, and courteous staff. Armour is dedicated to its customers and insurance partners and is always looking to strive excellence in professionalism. Website: armour-insurance.com
“At Armour we excel by motivating and recognizing achievers hence we are proud sponsors of CEO of the Year Award. Recognition of hard work and excellence goes a long way and we thank Insurance Business awards, Canada for organizing such a mega event every year. Congratulations and best of luck to all Excellence Awardees.”
drew schnehage, managing director - australia
Armour Insurance Brokers Ltd.
Alex Meier, Axis Insurance Managers Inc. Brett Graham, Agile Underwriting Solutions Inc. Cameron Copeland, Specialty Program Group Canada Jacques Goulet, Sun Life Matt Baynton, RAISE Underwriting Nick Creatura, CNA Canada Sarah Johnston, Johnston Insurance (Judy Johnston Insurance Services Inc.) Stephen Billyard, Billyard Insurance Group Stuart Bruce, FIRST Insurance Funding of Canada Zahid Salman, GreenShield
Zurich Canada
Saad Mered
This award goes to the CEO that has demonstrated exceptional leadership over the last 12 months, bringing their organization to a new level of growth and success and stimulating the insurance industry. Nominees can be a CEO/President/equivalent of any organization, in any facet of the Insurance industry in Canada.
“As the largest Canadian mutual insurance company, Beneva is bringing insurance back to what it’s about: putting people first. This includes supporting all the professionals who go above and beyond to protect Canadians and deliver a standout experience that translates into true peace of mind. We are honoured to celebrate these individuals by taking part in this year’s excellence awards.”
Shirley Marquis, Vice President Brokerage Networks
APRIL Canada Aurora Underwriting Solutions Burns & Wilcox Canada Cansure CHES Special Risk Forward Insurance PAL Insurance Brokers Canada PREMIER RAISE Underwriting Special Risk Insurance Managers Totten Insurance Group
Smith School of Business, Queen's University
Agile Underwriting Solutions Inc.
This award of excellence is presented to the MGA that offers superb service to brokers and is consistently proactive in educating brokers on products, while maintaining in-depth knowledge of financial markets and the competitive landscape of all product offerings.
For over 50 years, Burns & Wilcox has been uniquely focused on the success of the agents and brokers with whom we work. No matter the type of coverage, from the more routine to the large, complex and hard-to place, our 2000+ professionals possess a relentless commitment to applying their expertise to their clients’ needs day in and day out. This results in the right answer, right now for both long-term partners and new relationships. Website: burnsandwilcox.com
“We are proud to support the 2023 Insurance Business Canada Awards, including serving as the title sponsor of the Burns & Wilcox Award for Big Brokerage of the Year. In the face of ongoing market challenges and economic uncertainties, it is important to acknowledge the companies, teams and individuals who are leading the future of our industry. We look forward to presenting the award for Big Brokerage of the Year and celebrating with industry colleagues across Canada.”
Tyson Peel,Vice President, Burns & Wilcox
Axis Insurance Managers Inc. Billyard Insurance Group HUB International Limited Lloyd Sadd Insurance Brokers Ltd. NFP Canada PROLINK Insurance Inc. Surex Synex Insurance Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services
Westland Insurance
This award recognises the best brokerage operation with more than 100 staff (or full-time equivalents) in Canada. The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (license holders or authorised representatives) and support staff.
Cansure is a leading Canadian insurance supplier servicing brokers across the country. As an open market, Cansure is accessible by all licensed brokers in Canada and seek to be a first-choice supplier offering breadth of products to protect both standard and non-standard risks across personal and commercial lines. Known for their creative underwriting solutions and expertise, Cansure continues to sustain strong financial security supported by both global and domestic partnerships. Website: www.cansure.com
“Specialty Program Group Canada is thrilled to sponsor the prestigious Broker of the Year award, celebrating our industry’s best. At the heart of each of our brands, Cansure, Buildersure, Beacon, and i3 Underwriting, is a drive to help brokers grow through speed, service, and expertise from a purpose-fit experience.”
CANSURE
This award of is one of the highest accolades given to an individual in the insurance industry. This award recognizes the most outstanding insurance broker in Canada who has best exceled at pushing the envelope with exemplary service, commitment to clients, innovation and growth.
Aneeza Ahmad, KASE Insurance Inc. Blair Tinianov, Louis Meier Insurance Brokers Ltd. Eduardo Campos, Summit Commercial Insurance Solutions Hammad Hadi, Billyard Insurance Group - Mississauga East Joshua Kearley, Benson Kearley IFG Morgan Roberts, RH Insurance Inc Nathian Burke, Ai Insurance Organization
Charles Di Fiore, Green Infrastructure Partners Inc.
Paisley Partners Inc.
Jo-Anne Raymond
Rose Freeman, Willow Insurance Corp.
Shahzad Ali, Billyard Insurance Group Sheri Clay, J.T. Insurance Services (Canada), Inc. Terence D. Cairns, Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services (Alberta) Inc.
“We are dedicated to supporting and positively impacting our diverse communities, and we applaud the charitable efforts of our excellence awardees, who are leading the way for our industry's progress.”
Nick Creatura, President & CEO, CNA Canada
Allianz Trade in Canada APRIL Marine Assumption Life BIG Hearts Foundation GreenShield Specialty Program Group Canada Sun Life Zurich Canada
Ecclesiastical Insurance PLC
This award recognizes the organization whose outstanding contribution of time, leadership and financial support over a sustained period of time, beyond normal expectations, has made significant impacts in the receiving causes or communities.
FIRST Insurance Funding of Canada (FIRST Canada) provides the Canadian Insurance Market with comprehensive payment solutions. Brokers, MGAs, and carriers can partner with FIRST Canada and expand their offering to provide more value, choice, and convenience for all their clients. The combined strength of FIRST Canada’s dedicated team, evolved offering, and innovative platform positions its partners to meet the demanding future of the Canadian Insurance landscape. Armed with market-leading solutions for success, FIRST Canada is part of Wintrust (Nasdaq: WTFC) family of companies with more than $50 billion in assets and a part of the largest premium finance companies in North America. Follow FIRST Canada on LinkedIn and Twitter. Website: firstinsurancefunding.ca
“We have been proud to sponsor the Insurance Business Lifetime Achievement Award since its inception. The Insurance Business Awards are an important celebration, giving us the opportunity to acknowledge the industry’s professionals and our mutual achievements.”
This is the highest honour at the Insurance Business Canada Awards. This award recognizes and celebrates a leading figure who has contributed much to the advancement of the insurance industry in Canada. Though there are no defined parameters, this award will acknowledge someone with an established history and reputation of distinguished service to the insurance profession and who has exhibited leadership and provided inspiration to others in the sector and own workplace, whilst putting the interests of the industry at the top of their priorities throughout their career. There are no finalists for this category. Nominations will be evaluated by the shortlisting team. The recipient of this award will be contacted 3-4 weeks before the awards event and will be revealed at the Insurance Business Canada Awards gala.
FIRST Insurance Funding of Canada
Wawanesa Insurance (retired)
Carol Jardine
“PAL is pleased to sponsor the Rising Star Award for the eighth year in a row! The PAL team is committed to fostering new talent in the Canadian insurance industry by recognizing those who stand out as they enter their chosen fields. Thank you to Insurance Business Canada for another stellar event!”
PAL INSURANCE BROKERS CANADA
Joanne Bowles, Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services Inc. Joshua Brown, Billyard Insurance Group Kiran Kaur, Billyard Insurance Group Sam Unruh, Surex
Armour Insurance Brokers Ltd
Sukhman Brar
This award of excellence recognizes the outstanding young insurance broker in the insurance industry who has shown the highest potential for greater leadership and has exceled at pushing the envelope with innovation and growth, garnering industry’s attention and the respect of peers. To be eligible, nominees must be 40 or younger as of December 31, 2022.
“The insurance industry has an important story to tell about the incredible work we do to support the businesses and people in our communities. Behind those stories are talented professionals who show up every day to do their very best, and having a night dedicated to celebrating such achievements is something Travelers Canada is thrilled to support. Congratulations to all the winners and Excellence awardees this year!”
Heather Masterson, President and CEO, Travelers Canada
Beyond Insurance Inc Boardwalk Insurance Cane and Co. Insurance Johnston Insurance (Judy Johnston Insurance Services Inc.) Keyes Real Estate & Insurance Ltd. Louis Meier Insurance Brokers Ltd. RH Insurance Inc Richard McKenzie Insurance Brokers Inc.
Fuse Insurance Ltd.
This award recognizes the best brokerage with fewer than 10 staff in Canada that has displayed excellence over the past 12-18 months. The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (license holders or authorised representatives) and support staff. To be eligible your brokerage must be independently branded and headquartered in Canada.
“We're thrilled to partner with the Insurance Business Canada Awards 2023 to celebrate excellence in the industry. Supporting these awards is not just about recognition; it's about driving innovation and setting new benchmarks. We're proud to be a part of this journey towards excellence.”
Steamatic
Carolyn Shaffer, Billyard Insurance Group Cynthia Compère, Echelon Insurance Edwina McKennon, Move Her Forward Inc. Jacqueline Tremblay, Agile Underwriting Solutions Inc. Jessica Fryer, Special Risk Insurance Managers Jurenda Landry, Gallagher Karen Kilbrei, Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services (Kelowna) Inc. Leah MacLean, Agile Underwriting Solutions Inc. Marie-Eve Paquette, APRIL Marine Nikki Keith, Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services Inc. Sukhdeep Kang, Armour Insurance Brokers Ltd
PROLINK Insurance Inc.
Melissa Bajwa
This award of excellence goes to the outstanding female trailblazer in the insurance industry whose astounding personal and professional achievements have earned them a place among the industry’s best.
“Westland Insurance is proud to sponsor the 2023 P&C Insurer of the Year Award. This is an exciting time of growth in the P&C market and it’s so important to support and recognize excellence in our industry. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners this year!”
This award of excellence recognizes the most outstanding property and casualty insurance company in Canada providing top-tier property and casualty insurance products to consumers and businesses with an exemplary level of client service.
Aviva Canada CNA Canada Northbridge Insurance Red River Mutual The Mutual Fire Insurance Company of British Columbia Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company
“At XN we deliver true expertise with innovative insurance solutions that respond to the needs of brokers and their clients by providing peace of mind, allowing them to grow their business and protect their assets. We are committed to being the partner that delivers expertise and professionalism with in-class solutions by leveraging on technology to create a seamless experience for business worldwide.”
XN WORLDWIDE INSURANCE
Ai Insurance Organization Armour Insurance Brokers Ltd Ferrari and Associates InsureLine Brokers Empire isure insurance inc. KASE Insurance Inc. Leibel Insurance Group McCAM Insurance Brokers Limited SCU Insurance Services Ltd., a Vancity company
Munn Insurance
This award recognizes the best brokerage with 10-100 staff in Canada that has displayed excellence over the past 12-18 months. The number of staff includes all brokers writing business (license holders or authorised representatives) and support staff.
Steamatic is a world-renowned company specializing in restoration, disaster recovery and specialty cleaning. The Canadian division, founded more than 50 years ago, benefits from one of the largest franchise networks in the world. The Steamatic trademark (operating under BMS Technologies outside the United States and Canada) has been innovating year after year with representatives in the United States, South America, Europe and Australia. Steamatic Canada is now headed by Nancy Raymond, an elite entrepreneur recognized throughout the province of Quebec for having led her disaster banner for 10 years. Accompanied by her experienced insurance and disaster management team, its goal is to develop the network to become one of the biggest players in the industry at the Canadian level. Contact details: Website: steamatic.ca
“The time for traditional broking is in the past, the future is online digital platforms for brokers and their policyholders. Brokers that are on the front foot to create a digital customer experience will be the front runners. We equally share their passion and are inspired by the entries this year. We look forward to celebrating their successes at the 2023 Insurance Business awards.”
This award recognizes the underwriter whose expertise and outstanding service to brokers helps ensure proper coverage is placed efficiently and effectively.
Celina Lucchitti, RAISE Underwriting Eric Kung, HSB Canada Hans Choi, Cansure Jacqueline Tremblay, Agile Underwriting Solutions Inc. Jay Miah, PMU Specialty Joanne van Pelt, The Mutual Fire Insurance Company of British Columbia Kara Webb, Allianz Trade in Canada Laurence Dube, CHES Solutions Spécialisées Regen Chan, RAISE Underwriting Rosalie Stinson, Travelers Canada Steve Hrab, Burns & Wilcox Canada
SGI CANADA
Stacee McCulloch
