Effective leadership is a role that demands a blend of strategic thinking, impeccable communication, and the ability to influence others positively. As a people leader, one carries a fiduciary responsibility not just to customers but also to the team members they guide. This means making decisions that are in the best interest of the organization, its people and the clients they represent. A commitment to active participation within the team is key, fostering an environment where collaboration and innovation flourish. Leadership, therefore, is not just a title; it's a dynamic dance of skills and dedication that drives both personal and organizational growth.

Effective leadership is about inspiring and guiding a team to achieve their full potential while nurturing a shared vision. As an integration manager and deputy principal broker, I work with our employees to accept and adapt to the challenges ahead while meeting the goals and objectives of our organization. I strongly feel that people leaders always need to think ahead as their decisions may be difficult at times but necessary in order to reach a specific outcome. Although there is an end goal in mind, there may be many paths to achieve the same result. I find the process works best when I understand the diversity of the group and including them in the decision-making process. I illustrate potential results based on a specific decision which in turn, points them in another direction.
My role as a Broker is not that different. I need to be an expert advisor to our customers. I remind myself that I am being entrusted with protecting their most valuable assets. My role as a broker is to assist them in making informed decisions to secure the most appropriate insurance policies for their specific needs. I am also reminded that I hold a position of trust and responsibility to act in the best interests of our customers which, often involve financial matters. I must prioritize the well-being and interests of our clients above my own while maintaining the highest standards of loyalty and care.
Communication is such an important component on what we do as people leaders. If done properly, it builds trust and ensures there is an alignment between all parties. I truly feel that effective communication involves gaining an understanding through effective listening, value the information provided and present the vision and expectation. Providing an open and transparent channel of communication, an environment can be created where everyone feels heard and understood and most importantly, valued. My goal in working with customers and staff is that I can adapt my communication style to the situation / audience with whom I am working.
As a broker and people leader, I am constantly working with timelines. A customer’s policy has inception or renewal dates. An underwriter’s request that items to be completed by a specific date. Customer’s calls that need to be returned before a set deadline. Financial institutions who need information or documentation within a designated time frame as well. All these objectives usually cannot be accommodated by one person alone. We will rely on our support network of people to help us meet these goals. When these tasks are completed properly it is an example of good teamwork. As well, it’s a signal that a leader's dedication to being fully engaged and involved in the team's activities, fostering collaboration and a sense of unity.

I believe my skills and experience align well with the identified areas crucial for Council's effectiveness:
Executive Leadership: Although my experience doesn't reflect working in an Executive position. My background in a variety of management roles has equipped me with the ability to inspire and guide teams toward achieving their full potential while nurturing a shared vision. I understand the importance of fostering collaboration and creating an environment where everyone feels heard and valued.
Brokerage Operations: With my experience in the brokerage field, I have gained a deep understanding of the intricacies of operations within this industry. I am well-versed in the processes and challenges that brokers face, which will enable me to contribute to Council discussions.
Governance and Policy: My familiarity with governance structures and policy development stems from my involvement in decision-making processes within organizations. My background includes working with my local Business Improvement Association and I have participated on a Board of Directors. I am proficient at analyzing policies, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Finance and Audit: Although not my strongest attribute, I have experience in managing financial aspects of projects and organizations, I possess a strong foundation in finance and audit practices. I can provide valuable perspectives on budgeting, financial oversight, and risk management.
Professional Self-Regulation: I take pride in adhering to ethical and professional standards throughout my career. I do take my role as Deputy Principal Broker seriously. I feel that my commitment to self-regulation and upholding high ethical principles aligns with Council's responsibilities in this area.
Business Acumen and Management: As a branch manager within a larger organization, I was still required to adhere to business requirements of the organization. I had to run it as if were my own. I was responsible to develop a business plan to promote growth and maintain retention. It was my responsibility to maintain our branch EBITA. I also was responsible for recruitment, training and development of my team. I would say that my experience in business management has fine-tuned my ability to make strategic decisions, manage resources efficiently, and drive organizational growth. I can contribute insights into effective business practices.
Strategic Planning: I have a track record of participating in and leading strategic planning initiatives. My strategic thinking skills and experience in setting and achieving long-term goals will be valuable in shaping Council's strategic direction.
In summary, my skills and experience in executive leadership, brokerage operations, governance, finance, professional self-regulation, business acumen, and strategic planning make me well-equipped to contribute to Council's collective skills in these areas. I am committed to collaborating with fellow Council members to ensure that we effectively address the challenges and opportunities facing our organization while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and governance.

I feel that I bring a diverse background to the table, with over 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, starting as an office representative for a major direct insurer. I've since worked in various roles, including sales, service, management, underwriting and training in both large and small offices. My extensive experience extends to organizing and leading education seminars, collaborating with Insurance Companies and Brokerages alike. I also delivered education programs to candidates seeking to obtain their Ribo license.
I initially joined BrokerLink in 2006 as a facilitator, delivering technical and soft skills training programs. I transitioned to management in our Toronto office with a focus on team building. I further developed my skills and began to guide offices new to our organization through the integration process. In 2015, I managed the successful integration of our new office in Stevensville and became Branch Manager overseeing personal and commercial insurance operations. I learned a lot at this location and somewhat humbled from that experience. Working in a small town broadened my experience. I developed very close ties with our community members. In 2021, I returned to my role is as an Acquisition Integration Manager, assisting new BrokerLink offices. I hold a Level 2 Unrestricted Management License and serve as Deputy Principal Broker for BrokerLink in Ontario.
I'm committed to community service. Early in my career I offered insurance education to newcomers and Habitat for Humanity homeowners in my hometown of Windsor, Ontario. More recently, I was a key member of a local business group as we endeavored to establish a formal Business Improvement Association in Stevensville.
I've fielded this question quite a bit: Why am I running for Council? Well, my response has been very consistent. I aim to gain a better understanding of the inner workings of our professional association's regulatory body. Moreover, my primary focus is to advocate for our customers, ensuring they receive the equitable, honest and transparent treatment they rightfully expect.