Agenda

All times in ET

• 8:00 AM

  Registration and breakfast

• 8:15 AM

  Women in Insurance Mentorship Network Launch

  Celebrate the launch of our new Women in Insurance mentorship program! Join us to find out more about the Network and introduce yourself to your matched mentor/mentee or peer advisor. This is a valuable opportunity to hear from an expert speaker on the best practices of mentoring, reverse mentoring, and how to leverage the benefits of mentorship to make the most of your new mentor/mentee relationship. If you haven’t signed up yet, this is your chance to get involved.

  

  Dariia Voloshchuk

  Learning And Development Specialist
  Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company

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  Dariia Voloshchuk

  Learning And Development Specialist
  Trisura Guarantee Insurance Company

• 9:00 AM

  Opening remarks from chairperson

  

  Heather Masterson 

  President & CEO 
  Travelers Canada 

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  Heather Masterson 

  President & CEO 
  Travelers Canada 

   

  Heather Masterson is President and Chief Executive Officer of Travelers Canada and a member of the company’s Board of Directors.  

   She joined Travelers Canada in 2015 as its Chief Operating Officer and became the company’s President and CEO a year later. Prior to joining Travelers, she was President and CEO at Totten Insurance Group, and a senior executive at Hub International and AIG.  

  Throughout her career Heather has served on the Boards of several industry associations and not-for-profit organizations, including as current Chair of the Insurance Bureau of Canada. She is the Past Chair of the Insurance Institute of Canada’s National Board of Governors, is a Board member of both the Équité Association and Property and Casualty Compensation Corporation. Heather is a Global Ambassador for The Insurance Supper Club and served on the Board as Treasurer, and is a former Board member of General Insurance Statistical Agency and the Women’s Brain Health Initiative. 

  Heather has received notable industry recognition for her leadership. Most recently, she was named one of the 2023 Insurance Business Global 100 – an award she also received in 2021 and 2020. The formidable Global 100 spotlights outstanding professionals who are making a positive impact and driving change in the industry. Heather was named winner of the 2018 Insurance Business Canada’s Woman of Distinction Award, a recipient of the Hub International Chairman’s Award in 2014 and an honouree of the 2013 Business Insurance Women to Watch Award. 

   

• 9:05 AM

  Welcome address

  

  Colette Taylor

  Chief Operating Officer
  Sovereign Insurance

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  Colette Taylor

  Chief Operating Officer
  Sovereign Insurance

  Colette Taylor is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Sovereign Insurance, where she leads the business strategy to drive new growth in the rapidly changing Canadian marketplace.

  Colette has been in the P&C insurance industry for more than 20 years in a variety of roles. She found her passion when she entered the world of team leadership. Prior to joining Sovereign, she had extensive experience in the mid-market commercial and specialty space as an executive and senior leader. She has led front-line commercial underwriting teams, managed strategic broker relationships, and spent time during her career as a broker working directly with commercial end-clients.

  Since joining Sovereign in 2018, Colette has had a significant impact on the organization, quickly demonstrating her capabilities and growing within the leadership team. She began by leading the Specialty Lines Solutions team and assumed responsibility of the Commercial Solutions team in 2020 in her role as VP Commercial Solutions and Specialty Lines Solutions. Colette was responsible for the streamlined execution of Sovereign’s strategies within Commercial Solutions and Specialty Lines Solutions to support Sovereign’s goals for each channel of distribution. Her focus on innovation, efficiency, and informed underwriting has streamlined Sovereign’s operations, fostered a more collaborative and efficient experience for the organization’s brokers and partners, and made a significant impact on supporting Sovereign’s profitability.

• 9:10 AM

  Opening Keynote: Forging Her Own Path

  From the outset of her career, Jeanne Beker was determined to “have it all.” She became a media trailblazer, known for keeping her listeners, viewers, and readers alongside the shifting cultural landscape, reporting directly from the trenches.

  In show business for 50 years now, Jeanne reflects on her distinctive multi-faceted, multi-media career as a fashion reporter, television personality, and creator of her own fashion lines. She accomplished all this while building her now internationally recognized brand — long before “personal branding” was a common buzz phrase — and raising her family.

  Crediting her “nose to the grindstone” attitude and strong work ethic for her success, Jeanne Beker recounts the highs (and lows) of her life and career thus far, inspiring her audiences to dream big.

   

  

  Jeanne Beker

  Iconic Fashion and Lifestyle Journalist
  

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  Jeanne Beker

  Iconic Fashion and Lifestyle Journalist
  

  For almost five decades, Jeanne Beker has been at the forefront of arts and culture. She earned
  her position as one of Canada’s most recognizable celebrities as a founding member of
  MuchMusic and the iconic host of Fashion Television. A media trailblazer and successful
  entrepreneur, Beker is also the daughter of Holocaust survivors and a breast cancer survivor. In
  her inspirational talks, she shares how she cultivated the drive, resiliency, and tenacity needed
  to fuel her incredible career, as well as the courage to face life’s challenges while empowering
  audiences to do the same.

  Beker’s incredible broadcasting career began with CBC Radio when she became an arts reporter
  in St. John’s, Newfoundland. After three years, she returned to Toronto to work at CHUM radio
  and was soon co-hosting Citytv’s ground-breaking music magazine series, The New Music. In
  1983, she helped launch “the nation’s music station”, MuchMusic, before becoming the host of
  the legendary Fashion Television, which ran for 27 years and aired in 130 countries, establishing
  her as Canada’s face of fashion.

  A seasoned newspaper and magazine columnist and features writer, Beker was editor-in-chief
  of FQ and SIR magazine from 2003 to 2008. She has also written five books, is a frequent guest
  on myriad lifestyle shows, and has been at the creative helm of numerous fashion lines under
  her own eponymous label. Since 2015, Beker’s been the style editor at The Shopping Channel
  (TSC) where she hosts the popular series, Style Matters, and the podcast, Beyond Style Matters.
  Most recently, Beker was co-producer on Kingdom of Dreams, a four-part documentary series
  examining fashion’s golden age.

  A breast cancer survivor, Beker’s journey has provided her with a rich, eye-opening experience.
  Her candour in discussing the peaks and valley of her journey has inspired people around the
  world. She’s now on a mission to help normalize the conversation surrounding cancer and help
  eradicate the fear associated with the disease.

  Active with several charitable organizations, Beker has received honourary doctorates from St.
  Mary’s University and OCAD University. She’s also the recipient of numerous awards, including
  a Special Achievement Award from the Canadian Academy of Cinema and Television and a
  Crystal Award from Toronto Women in Film and Television. She’s also been named to the Order
  of Canada, inducted into the American Marketing Association’s Hall of Legends, and honoured
  with a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame

• 9:55 AM

  Interactive workshop: How to future-proof your business by leveraging your network

  In today’s rapidly changing insurance landscape, your professional network can be a powerful asset in ensuring the longevity and success of your business. This facilitated workshop explores the strategies and tactics for future-proofing your business by tapping into your network’s potential, insight, and energy. Learn how to:

  • Harness the power of your professional network for business longevity
  • Leverage both online and offline relationships to adapt to industry changes
  • Seize opportunities and stay ahead of trends with a strong network
  • Build a resilient and sustainable business through inspiring connections

  

  Vinita Jajware-Beatty 

  President 
  Toronto Insurance Women’s Association (TIWA) 

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  Vinita Jajware-Beatty 

  President 
  Toronto Insurance Women’s Association (TIWA) 

  Vinita Jajware-Beatty is President of the Toronto Insurance Women’s Association (TIWA), a not-for-profit trade association. As President, Vinita acts as a resource for the entire insurance community, including brokers; underwriters; claims; and risk management professionals. In addition to her role with TIWA, Vinita serves as co-chair of Dive In Canada. As an insurance professional with a risk management and property claims background, Vinita brings over 20 years of career experience to many diversity and inclusion initiatives within the insurance industry.  

   Along with her work with TIWA, Vinita is the Chief Operating Officer of Enkompass Power & Energy Corporation. A national engineering and field services firm, Enkompass has operations rooted in industries including construction; telecommunications; health care; manufacturing; food and beverage; pharmaceutical; mining; and insurance. Vinita is responsible for operational oversight, including Enterprise Risk Management & Human Resources.    

  A graduate of the University of Guelph with a Bachelors of Commerce, Vinita has since earned her Certificate in Risk Management from the University of Toronto and is a designated Canadian Risk Manager through the Global Risk Management Institute. Vinita also holds a Certificate in Construction Law from Osgoode Hall Law School and is designated as a Certified Marketing Specialist with the Canadian Marketing Association.  

  

  Eileen Greene

  Vice President and Partner
  HUB International

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  Eileen Greene

  Vice President and Partner
  HUB International

  With over twenty years of insurance industry experience, Eileen works to provide clients with strategic advice, expertise and exceptional service. Eileen advocates and manages existing clients expectations as well as anticipating and preparing for change and growth.  
  Using “outside of the box” thinking, Eileen ensures that her prospects and clients are met with a very high level of knowledge, coverage and confidence. 
   
  Aside from Eileen’s obvious impact through the volume of new business that she develops, her impact is also felt by colleagues at all levels.Whether mentoring young producers, collaborating with veteran producers or using her extensive network to source sponsors, participants or performers for numerous charity events, Eileen consistently inspires others to succeed. 
   
  A true master in her line of work, Eileen exemplifies the importance of hard work, dedication and perseverance. With her vision, intelligence and presence, Eileen is a true leader and inspiration to the insurance industry as well as within her community. Her unwavering commitment to her clients, colleagues, community and family is a true reflection of her core values. 
   
  Eileen serves is a board member for Prostate Cancer Canada and is a Strategic Advisor to the Woman’s Brain Initiative and Greenstone Clinic which is dedicated to the treatment and recovery of those with substance abuse issues. A Past board member for Bridgepoint Health, The Argos Foundation and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. Avid skier, golfer, runner, mother and wife. 
   
  Eileen was honoured in 2013 with the Legend award, which recognizes those who have consistently achieved new business production at the highest levels for five consecutive years.  
  Eileen was recently named the Insurance Sales Award winner at the prestigious Best Women in Sales Awards honouring top women in sales internationally. 

  

  Kadey B.J. Schultz

  Founder and Managing Partner
  Schultz Law Group LLP

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  Kadey B.J. Schultz

  Founder and Managing Partner
  Schultz Law Group LLP

  Kadey B.J. Schultz is the founder and managing partner of Schultz Law Group LLP, a Toronto based litigation firm specializing in coverage, defence and prosecution work for insurers, self-insured entities and re-insurers. She is also a Certified Risk Manager. Kadey acts as anti-fraud counsel, defending and prosecuting against opportunistic and vertically integrated fraud. She is a strategic partner with a variety of self-insured programs, designing and enforcing prevention and mitigation systems, in addition to handling policy design, coverage and defence matters. Kadey is a prolific speaker and is extensively published within the insurance industry, regularly contributing to RIMS Canada, the Insurance Institute of Ontario, the Ontario and Canadian Insurance Adjusters’ Associations, the Law Society of Ontario, the Canadian Defence Lawyers Association and Osgoode’s Professional Development Program. She is a past adjunct professor with the University of Windsor Faculty of Law and Brock University and guest faculty with the Ontario Provincial Police and Ontario Police College. Kadey has been honoured with the Best Lawyers in Canada (Insurance Law) award annually since 2018. She received the Lexpert Zenith Mid-Career Excellence Award in Commercial Insurance in 2018, and the Lexpert Rising Stars Top 40 under 40 Lawyers in Canada award in 2015. She was acknowledged as a US/Canada Litigator to Watch in 2014. Kadey received the Richard B. Lindsay Exceptional Young Lawyer Award from the Canadian Defence Lawyers Association in 2010. In addition to Kadey’s vibrant legal and consulting practice, she is a member of the Board of Directors of the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation in Toronto, is past 1st Vice President of the Medico-Legal Society of Toronto and is a committed fundraiser and advocate for children with disabilities and medical complexities. 

• 10:40 AM

  Speed networking

  An opportunity to meet your peers and get to know more people in the room. Expand your network, make connections, and meet fellow delegates in this structured networking session.

  

  Heather Masterson 

  President & CEO 
  Travelers Canada 

  ×

  

  Heather Masterson 

  President & CEO 
  Travelers Canada 

   

  Heather Masterson is President and Chief Executive Officer of Travelers Canada and a member of the company’s Board of Directors.  

   She joined Travelers Canada in 2015 as its Chief Operating Officer and became the company’s President and CEO a year later. Prior to joining Travelers, she was President and CEO at Totten Insurance Group, and a senior executive at Hub International and AIG.  

  Throughout her career Heather has served on the Boards of several industry associations and not-for-profit organizations, including as current Chair of the Insurance Bureau of Canada. She is the Past Chair of the Insurance Institute of Canada’s National Board of Governors, is a Board member of both the Équité Association and Property and Casualty Compensation Corporation. Heather is a Global Ambassador for The Insurance Supper Club and served on the Board as Treasurer, and is a former Board member of General Insurance Statistical Agency and the Women’s Brain Health Initiative. 

  Heather has received notable industry recognition for her leadership. Most recently, she was named one of the 2023 Insurance Business Global 100 – an award she also received in 2021 and 2020. The formidable Global 100 spotlights outstanding professionals who are making a positive impact and driving change in the industry. Heather was named winner of the 2018 Insurance Business Canada’s Woman of Distinction Award, a recipient of the Hub International Chairman’s Award in 2014 and an honouree of the 2013 Business Insurance Women to Watch Award. 

   

• 10:55 AM

  Networking coffee break

• 11:20 AM

  Leaders’ briefing: Opportunity by numbers – Revealing data-driven industry insights

  An exclusive opportunity to hear the latest industry-focused economic outlook from a senior economist, in conversation with a senior insurance leader. This session showcases data-driven insights on industry challenges and the opportunities they create. Data will empower you as a leader to better understand the market conditions impacting insurance and the tools available to navigate them. Enhance your market understanding for informed business decision-making and gain valuable takeaways on:

  • Industry data revealing pain points and opportunities
  • An enhanced market understanding for informed business decisions
  • Insights and tools for navigating market conditions
  • A data-driven approach to address industry challenges

  

  Chris Van Kooten

  CEO
  Allianz Global Assistance

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  Chris Van Kooten

  CEO
  Allianz Global Assistance

  Chris Van Kooten has led Allianz Global Assistance’s travel insurance business in Canada for over five years as Chief Executive Officer. Over his 20-year career in insurance, Chris has held several leadership roles at The Co-operators General Insurance Company, Economical/Sonnet Insurance and Guy Carpenter Canada. Chris is a qualified actuary, and holds an MBA and Master of Behavioural Science. As a life-long learner, Chris also believes in the sharing of knowledge, having been a lecturer at the University of Waterloo. In his spare time, Chris enjoys cycling, athletics and travel.

  

  Mauricio Zelaya, PhD

  Partner & National Economics Leader
  EY

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  Mauricio Zelaya, PhD

  Partner & National Economics Leader
  EY

  Dr. Zelaya is an accomplished economist with extensive experience in econometrics and statistical modelling for both private and public sector clients. He specializes in the economics of innovation, industrial organization, and more generally, the application of economic theory to real business issues. His work in this area spans across numerous industries and sectors, from oil & gas and agriculture to finance, advanced manufacturing and nascent and emerging technologies. He is also an active member in the academic community, concurrently lecturing economics and international business courses at the Schulich School of Business at York University. In addition to providing econometric and statistical modelling services, Dr. Zelaya also performs market studies, economic impact assessments, cost-benefit analysis, and program analysis and design.

• 11:50 AM

  Panel: Strategies to empower women in insurance – Unlocking leadership success at every career stage

  Today we’re seeing that career success is not limited by age or experience. What can we learn from each other’s unique perspectives and experiences? How can women take steps to advance at each level – what’s proven? This session explores the strategies and opportunities that individuals can harness to thrive in the insurance industry at every stage of their professional journey. With insights on overcoming the most common leadership pain points, explore:

  • Successful strategies for establishing a winning career foundation
  • Your toolkit to overcome leadership challenges and take your career to the next level
  • Leadership opportunities that will drive your career forward
  • How do you develop your own authentic leadership style?
  • Decisions to make now to establish a business legacy

  Moderator

  

  Asima Zahid

  Head of Business Development, Canada
  Sompo International

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  Asima Zahid

  Head of Business Development, Canada
  Sompo International

  Panelists

  

  Terri Mason-Benjamin

  Vice President, Marketing and Distribution
  CNA Canada

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  Terri Mason-Benjamin

  Vice President, Marketing and Distribution
  CNA Canada

  Terri is responsible for CNA’s Marketing, Communications, and Broker Distribution initiatives. She leads Canada’s distribution strategy, partner relationships, and brand awareness strategy to solidify CNA’s position as a leader in the Canadian market.

  Terri joined CNA in 2018 as Assistant Vice President, Cyber & Professional Liability, bringing over 20 years of insurance experience through senior roles at various global insurance carriers and brokers. Terri is a strong leader with deep experience in new product development, broker relations, and business planning.

  

  Laura Doddington

  Head of Personal Lines Insurance Consulting and Technology North America
  WTW

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  Laura Doddington

  Head of Personal Lines Insurance Consulting and Technology North America
  WTW

  Laura Doddington has almost 20 years of experience in P&C insurance. In her current role, Laura is WTW’s head of personal lines insurance consulting and technology for North America. She partners with insurance carriers to embed and optimize data and analytics across the entire insurance value chain, and enjoys helping insurers to drive better results.

  Prior to joining WTW, Laura held a number of Pricing and P&L roles at insurance carriers, both in the UK and in North America. She has led diverse areas of the business, including pricing and risk segmentation, marketing, digital and operations. Throughout these roles Laura has had the privilege of leading teams, and is passionate about helping individuals grow, develop and reach their potential.

  Laura lives in Toronto with her husband and two children. In her spare time she loves to travel and to play violin. She has a degree in Computer Science from the University of Cambridge, and is a qualified actuary.

  

  Melanie Wilcox

  Executive Vice President, Head of Personal Risk Services, Canada Region
  Chubb Insurance

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  Melanie Wilcox

  Executive Vice President, Head of Personal Risk Services, Canada Region
  Chubb Insurance

  

  Ingrid Wilson

  Director, Governance & Audit
  Canadian Association of Black Insurance Professionals

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  Ingrid Wilson

  Director, Governance & Audit
  Canadian Association of Black Insurance Professionals

  She is a Global HR Executive & CHRO, with over 30 years of experience in corporate and organizational human resources strategy, board, and business strategy. Ingrid has pursued excellence in human resources, board, and leadership strategy through the CHRP and CHRL designation, and through programs at Queens University and the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto where she currently serves on the HR Advisory Group for Executive Development programs focused on HR Leaders. Ingrid also currently serves on the Appeals Regulatory Committee, Human Resources Professional Association and as a member on the HRPA Speaker Bureau. She also holds several EDI certifications in areas such as leading for equity and inclusion, anti-racism and disability inclusion and holds the Inclusive and Ethical Leadership certification. She serves on non-for-profit, community and advisory boards and committees, including as Project Lead, The LINC Bust Project;  Board Director, Humber River Health; Board Member, AIDS Committee of Toronto; Community Member, Region of Peel, Diversity, Equity and Anti-Racism Committee (DEAR); Board Director, Governance and Audit at the Canadian Association of Black Insurance Professionals (CABIP); Founding Advisory Committee Member, System-3 Inc., and Advisor, Governance and Human Resources Committee, Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) and has previously served as Board Chair and Vice Chair on other non-for-profit boards. Ingrid is a recipient of the Top 25 DEI Person of the Year Award, 2021, The Canadian Multicultural Group and LINKEDIN DIRECTORY OF 1000+ WOMEN WHO INSPIRE THROUGH THEIR WORK, July 2022, TOP 100 HR Professionals, National Diversity Awards 2023, BMI Female Mentor of the Year 2024 and Nominee, 2024 Women Changing the World Awards.

• 12:30 PM

  Networking lunch

• 1:30 PM

  There’s no finish line: Fighting workplace DEI complacency and fatigue

  In the business world, 2020 will go down in the history books as the year of DEI. Ignited by a social uprising over racial injustice in the U.S., organizations around the globe pledged to build more diverse and equitable workplaces. Fast forward to today and there are signs that DEI’s focus is waning in many sectors, not just insurance. The work of integrating DEI into our workplace cultures and our business strategies requires long-term investment and commitment; we can’t afford to be apathetic to this fatigue. This interactive session will explore shifting DEI perspectives, share data and insights as to why DEI attention may be lacking, and offer solutions as a rallying cry for action. 

  

  Colette Taylor

  Chief Operating Officer
  Sovereign Insurance

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  Colette Taylor

  Chief Operating Officer
  Sovereign Insurance

  Colette Taylor is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Sovereign Insurance, where she leads the business strategy to drive new growth in the rapidly changing Canadian marketplace.

  Colette has been in the P&C insurance industry for more than 20 years in a variety of roles. She found her passion when she entered the world of team leadership. Prior to joining Sovereign, she had extensive experience in the mid-market commercial and specialty space as an executive and senior leader. She has led front-line commercial underwriting teams, managed strategic broker relationships, and spent time during her career as a broker working directly with commercial end-clients.

  Since joining Sovereign in 2018, Colette has had a significant impact on the organization, quickly demonstrating her capabilities and growing within the leadership team. She began by leading the Specialty Lines Solutions team and assumed responsibility of the Commercial Solutions team in 2020 in her role as VP Commercial Solutions and Specialty Lines Solutions. Colette was responsible for the streamlined execution of Sovereign’s strategies within Commercial Solutions and Specialty Lines Solutions to support Sovereign’s goals for each channel of distribution. Her focus on innovation, efficiency, and informed underwriting has streamlined Sovereign’s operations, fostered a more collaborative and efficient experience for the organization’s brokers and partners, and made a significant impact on supporting Sovereign’s profitability.

• 2:05 PM

  Interactive workshop: Impacting up – How to influence decision-making in the C-suite

  Influencing C-suite decision makers involves understanding their priorities, building trust, and presenting compelling arguments. To make an impact, it’s essential to align your proposals with their strategic goals and demonstrate how your ideas can benefit your organization. Collaborate with your peers in small groups to discuss how you can influence up for senior leadership buy-in. In this workshop you will learn how to:

  • Understand the mindset of C-suite executives and their decision-making process
  • Build and maintain strong, strategic relationships with key C-suite allies
  • Develop critical skills for influencing and negotiation
  • Craft and deliver robust, persuasive proposals tailored to business priorities
  • Leverage data, research, and case-studies to support your recommendations and your cause

  

  Lynn Oldfield

  Non-Executive Director (retired CEO)
  AIG Insurance Company of Canada Toronto, Canada

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  Lynn Oldfield

  Non-Executive Director (retired CEO)
  AIG Insurance Company of Canada Toronto, Canada

  Lynn is an inclusive, dynamic, and transformative leader and director with extensive business and leadership accomplishments. From 2008-2023, she has served as President and CEO of AIG Insurance Company of Canada and remains a Non-Executive Director. Lynn began her career with AIG in 1991 as an underwriting manager and has 40 years of experience in commercial risk and insurance. She earned an Honours BBA degree from Wilfrid Laurier University and an MBA from McMaster University; is an FCIP; and holds the ICD.D Institute of Corporate Directors designation from Rotman U of T. As a seasoned board member, Lynn has served on private and industry association boards, and was chosen by the federal government to serve on the Global Risk Institute’s Board of Directors, where she currently Chairs the HR, Membership and Compensation Committee. She recently joined the Board of the Arthritis Society Canada and is a member of the Audit Committee and CEO Strategic Advisory Group.  Lynn returned to University of Toronto Rotman School of Business in 2023-2024 to be certified in ESG.D.

• 2:40 PM

  Networking coffee break

• 3:00 PM

  Fireside chat: Accelerate through authenticity – Using who you are to drive your business and career

  Embracing your unique values, skills and passions can be a catalyst for professional success. How can you transform your weaknesses into superpowers for success? This session explores how being true to yourself, developing your strengths, and leveraging your personal story leads to a fulfilling and profitable career. Leaders share their career journeys and stories of how they leaned into and mastered their perceived weaknesses to succeed. Discover how to:

  • Be authentic while developing your career
  • Align your career goals with your unique qualities, values, and interests
  • Use your personal story to connect with your customers
  • Get comfortable with self-advocacy
  • Achieve personal fulfillment while reaching career and business goals

  Moderator

  

  Deborah Paik

  Vice President, Network Performance, Compensation, Oversight and Resources
  Desjardins General Insurance Group

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  Deborah Paik

  Vice President, Network Performance, Compensation, Oversight and Resources
  Desjardins General Insurance Group

  Deborah Paik has 20 years of experience in the insurance industry. As a strategic leader, her passion and expertise lie in solving complex insurance problems and developing highly performant teams. 

  Deborah has 15 years of leadership experience; throughout her career she has led large teams across the Actuarial, Corporate Underwriting, Compensation, and Oversight Departments. Notably, she has provided strategic business solutions and data analytics to various cross-functional areas, in addition to developing and executing business recommendations to support company directions and objectives.  

  Deborah began her career at Desjardins General Insurance Group (DGIG) as an Actuarial Analyst. In 2009, Deborah moved into management, first as the Actuarial Manager of Ratemaking and Business Solutions and later as the Manager for Agency Performance, Planning and Analysis, and then as the National Director for Corporate Underwriting Automobile.  

  In 2020, Deborah assumed the role of Director of Agency Oversight and Administration for the Desjardins Agent Network (DAN). In 2021, Deborah became Vice President of Network Performance, Compensation, Oversight and Resources. In her current role, Deborah oversees the Agency Resources, Quality and Oversight, Network Compensation and Planning, and Performance and Business Insights teams. As a key leader for the Desjardins Agent Network, Deborah leads the Network in reaching its full potential through its strategic profitable growth goals.  

  Deborah obtained her Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Actuarial Science and Statistics from Western University and completed an exchange program in her final year of university at Cass Business School in London, England. 

  Deborah loves spending time outdoors, trying new foods and travelling the world with her family.   

  Panelists

  

  Lisa Giannone

  President and Chief Operating Officer
  BFL CANADA

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  Lisa Giannone

  President and Chief Operating Officer
  BFL CANADA

  Lisa joined BFL CANADA in 2009 as Vice-President, Team Leader and National Practice Leader – Programs. She has many years of experience in Insurance Brokerage and Risk Management.  Previously, she was employed by a large international brokerage firm where she held various positions locally, regionally and nationally. 

  In the course of her career, she has been involved in the design of insurance and risk management programs for a number of large Montreal based companies with international operations, as well as the development of programs for various associations and groups.  She has developed an expertise in risk transfer for the mining, manufacturing, construction, forestry and transportation sectors. 

  Lisa holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Concordia University, with a double major in Finance and Marketing and holds the title of Associate Insurance Broker (AIB). 

  

  Celyeste Power

  President & Chief Executive Officer
  Insurance Bureau of Canada

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  Celyeste Power

  President & Chief Executive Officer
  Insurance Bureau of Canada

• 3:30 PM

  Panel: Capturing best practices – Preserving industry wisdom for the next generation

  With the younger boomer generation of insurance professionals set to retire en masse in the next decade, the need to retain industry knowledge and expertise is critical as we transition to the next generation of markets. How can we ensure effective knowledge transfer to the next generations of insurance leaders? Through compelling examples, attendees will gain insights into the strategies and best practices employed by leading organizations to successfully safeguard and pass on invaluable industry wisdom. Gain practical takeaways and:

  • Learn how to bridge the generation gap and transfer knowledge effectively
  • Real-world examples of successful approaches to safeguarding industry wisdom
  • Prepare for the challenges and opportunities that the evolving market presents through knowledge-sharing
  • Discover concrete examples of best practices in action to equip your business for the future

  Moderator

  

  Terri O’Brien

  President & Chief Executive Officer 
  Équité Association 

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  Terri O’Brien

  President & Chief Executive Officer 
  Équité Association 

  Terri brings over 25 years of experience in financial services, including all facets of risk management, fraud, leadership and growth strategies to Équité Association. Prior to Équité, Terri was Chief Risk Officer at Interac Corp., and has held senior executive roles at TD Bank, as well as other financial institutions earlier in her career.  

  An astute and innovative leader, Terri integrates risk practices into strategic planning and governance. Adept at both business management and technology-driven methodologies, Terri believes that people are the third foundational support for success. Her leadership focuses on communication, transparency and coaching, supporting both institutional and personal growth within her teams.  

  With a double major in Finance & Systems Architecture, B.Comm from the Ted Rogers School of Business Management, Terri also has a history of serving her community. Dedicating her time to increasing financial literacy, a gap that is still prevalent in Canada, Terri speaks to young women, from their early teenage years to young adulthood. She contributes to increasing the financial literacy of these groups, while encouraging them to pursue a career in business and is a strong supporter of women in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics). Terri has testified in the House of Commons as an expert witness on “Cybersecurity in the Financial Sector as a National Economic Security Issue” in 2019, and on the “National Auto Theft Crisis” in 2024. 

  Panelists

  

  Ellen N. Gowland

  Director of Corporate & Claims Litigation
  Allstate Insurance Company of Canada

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  Ellen N. Gowland

  Director of Corporate & Claims Litigation
  Allstate Insurance Company of Canada

  Ellen is Director of Corporate & Claims Litigation for Allstate Insurance Company of Canada. She completed a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology at York University and obtained her law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School in 2000. Ellen was called to the bar in Ontario in February 2002 and has been practicing insurance litigation ever since. Ellen completed her articles working in-house with an international insurance company and continued her career with a prominent boutique litigation firm in Toronto where she worked on defence and plaintiff-side personal injury tort and first party benefit actions. Ellen joined the in-house legal department at Allstate in May of 2010 and has continued her insurance defence practice as well as working with the company on records and information management, regulatory compliance and policy issues. Ellen has appeared before all levels of Court in Ontario, the Financial Services Commission of Ontario and License Appeal Tribunal on many occasions during the course of her career. Ellen is a member of the Ontario Bar Association, The Advocate’s Society where she is a member of the Personal Injury and Insurance Practice Group Executive and former Chair of the In-House Practice Group, The Canadian Defence Lawyers where she is a former Chair of the In-House Steering Committee and the Association of Corporate Counsel.

  

  Mackenzie Oldfield

  Underwriter, Private & Not-for-Profit Financial Lines
  Chubb Insurance

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  Mackenzie Oldfield

  Underwriter, Private & Not-for-Profit Financial Lines
  Chubb Insurance

  Mackenzie Oldfield joined Chubb’s Financial Lines Underwriting Team in October 2022, after graduating from Wilfrid Laurier University with a Bachelor of Business Administration. Based in Toronto, Mackenzie’s focus is on underwriting private and not-for-profit organizations to provide Directors & Officers, Employment Practices Liability, Fiduciary, Crime, and Kidnap/Ransom coverage. She previously held a wide variety of roles in the industry through Laurier’s co-op program: in claims, risk consulting, and underwriting. 

   

  

  Gayatri Singh

  Vice President, Programs Property UW
  Swiss Re

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  Gayatri Singh

  Vice President, Programs Property UW
  Swiss Re

  Gayatri is a reinsurance professional, leads Facilities Property Business as Vice President at Swiss Re Canada where she joined in 2018. With a decade plus of strong knowledge and expertise in various domains of Natural Catastrophe and Underwriting Analytics, she began her career at Moody’s RMS and has keen interest in adapting to sustainable ways. 

  Gayatri holds a Masters and Bachelors in Statistics from University of Delhi and is a certified Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) and Associate of Reinsurance(ARe). Outside of work she loves to travel and is always picking a new interest. Her latest is trying to tug the guitar strings. 

• 4:15 PM

  Closing remarks from chairperson

  

  Heather Masterson 

  President & CEO 
  Travelers Canada 

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  Heather Masterson 

  President & CEO 
  Travelers Canada 

   

  Heather Masterson is President and Chief Executive Officer of Travelers Canada and a member of the company’s Board of Directors.  

   She joined Travelers Canada in 2015 as its Chief Operating Officer and became the company’s President and CEO a year later. Prior to joining Travelers, she was President and CEO at Totten Insurance Group, and a senior executive at Hub International and AIG.  

  Throughout her career Heather has served on the Boards of several industry associations and not-for-profit organizations, including as current Chair of the Insurance Bureau of Canada. She is the Past Chair of the Insurance Institute of Canada’s National Board of Governors, is a Board member of both the Équité Association and Property and Casualty Compensation Corporation. Heather is a Global Ambassador for The Insurance Supper Club and served on the Board as Treasurer, and is a former Board member of General Insurance Statistical Agency and the Women’s Brain Health Initiative. 

  Heather has received notable industry recognition for her leadership. Most recently, she was named one of the 2023 Insurance Business Global 100 – an award she also received in 2021 and 2020. The formidable Global 100 spotlights outstanding professionals who are making a positive impact and driving change in the industry. Heather was named winner of the 2018 Insurance Business Canada’s Woman of Distinction Award, a recipient of the Hub International Chairman’s Award in 2014 and an honouree of the 2013 Business Insurance Women to Watch Award. 

   

• 4:20 PM

  Networking drinks reception