Some of the industry’s best shone brightly at the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (
IBAO) awards gala in the nation’s capital, with top brokers and brokerages getting their due.
“We are honoured to award these recipients who were selected for their community and professional contributions,” said IBAO CEO Randy Carroll. “This group of people is an example of the great work being done in our industry across the province.”
The Awards of Excellence Gala recognized the top performing brokers and brokerages throughout Ontario. The gala was the final event of the association’s 94th annual convention held in Ottawa last week – a gathering that had a dark start with the nearby shooting of a reservist who was standing guard at the National War Memorial, subsequent attack on the parliament buildings and lockdown of the convention centre and adjacent hotel on October 22.
The annual awards event serves to highlight the achievements and initiatives of its most outstanding members, through their local work as businesspeople and as involved and caring citizens
The winners of the 2014 IBAO Awards of Excellence were:
Young Broker of the Year – Dwayne Gagne, Ontario West Insurance Brokers, London, Ont.
With over 12 years in the business, Gagne has been a Young Broker Council team leader since 2011. Gagne was also the crisis responder for Victim Services of Elgin.
Affiliate of the Year – Insurance Brokers Association of Durham Region
The Insurance Brokers Association of Durham Region hosted a town hall with five local MPPs discussing insurance issues and also hosted regular lunch-and-learns with prominent speakers from the industry. They support and participate in dozens of local charity events.
Brokerage of the Year– Reith & Associates Insurance and Financial Services Ltd., St Thomas, Ont.
Founded in 1914, Reith & Associates is an independent insurance and financial services broker. All staff at the brokerage is set up to work remotely giving real time access to client files. Their employee’s personal and professional development is encouraged and celebrated. They were also the recipient of the 2013 Spirit of St. Thomas Award.
Innovator of the Year- Greg Raymond, InsuranceHero.ca, Toronto, Ont.
Raymond is a fifth generation insurance broker who recognizes that the brokers who innovate will remain relevant. He launched InsuranceHero.ca in 2011 recognizing not all clients want to be communicated with in the same way, therefore they operate a multi-channel model which enables them to expand their trade area and attract a broader demographic.
