About Us

lmi-about-usLackner McLennan Insurance Ltd. is a long-standing member of the Kitchener-Waterloo business community.

For more than 72 years, Lackner McLennan has been known as an outstanding Kitchener-Waterloo insurance brokerage.

The business is operated by five partners and a staff of dedicated insurance specialists and support personnel.

Our wealth of experience in the Personal Insurance and Financial Services arenas compliments our commercial offerings.

See our staff directory below:

Stephen Bleizeffer

Partner, Commercial Program Manager, Vice President of the Board
Career Experience

Since beginning my insurance career in 1987 I have been focusing on the commercial side of the Property and Casualty industry. I first started working as a Producer for two small local brokerages before accepting a position with Lackner McLennan in 1991. In 2004, I was pleased to become a partner and shareholder.

As a published insurance broker and risk manager, my focus has been in developing professional relationships with business throughout Canada, specializing in commercial insurance and commercial insurance programs. I believe that managing relationships and establishing communication with clients that goes beyond a working rapport is of the utmost importance. This has developed into a very enjoyable and rewarding part of my work – meeting with and discussing insurance and general life aspects with both current clients and potential new clients and I highly appreciate these opportunities.

In my spare time, I like to read and have a great affinity to the collector car marketplace. As an “old car guy” I try to attend as many events as possible throughout the year and have amassed a very large collection of automotive books and magazines. I have found that a great number of my clients have the same interests and have become lifelong friends. During the winter months I participate competitively in various bowling and billiard events which might be a throwback to a misguided youth.

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Our Staff





Corporate Team

Stephen Bleizeffer

Partner, Commercial Program Manager, Vice President of the Board
Career Experience

Since beginning my insurance career in 1987 I have been focusing on the commercial side of the Property and Casualty industry. I first started working as a Producer for two small local brokerages before accepting a position with Lackner McLennan in 1991. In 2004, I was pleased to become a partner and shareholder.

As a published insurance broker and risk manager, my focus has been in developing professional relationships with business throughout Canada, specializing in commercial insurance and commercial insurance programs. I believe that managing relationships and establishing communication with clients that goes beyond a working rapport is of the utmost importance. This has developed into a very enjoyable and rewarding part of my work – meeting with and discussing insurance and general life aspects with both current clients and potential new clients and I highly appreciate these opportunities.

In my spare time, I like to read and have a great affinity to the collector car marketplace. As an “old car guy” I try to attend as many events as possible throughout the year and have amassed a very large collection of automotive books and magazines. I have found that a great number of my clients have the same interests and have become lifelong friends. During the winter months I participate competitively in various bowling and billiard events which might be a throwback to a misguided youth.

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James Chmiel

Partner, Chairman of the Board
Career Experience

Prior to the acquisition of Erb and Erb Insurance Brokers Ltd., by LMI, I was a Partner at Erb and Erb, and served as the firm’s President since 2006.

In addition to my various company responsibilities now as Chief Operating Officer, I feel very fortunate to be an active volunteer in the community.  I am involved with the United Way of Kitchener-Waterloo and Area, having served as a Loaned representative, account executive and, the 2011 Campaign Chair. I sit on various Insurance Company advisory councils; serve on various local boards; and I am an occasional Guest Speaker at the University of Guelph and Conestoga College.

I am also pleased to serve as an Audit Committee member for the Waterloo Region District School Board Trustees, and as a Regional Reviewer for the Prime Minister’s Volunteer Awards.

I was born in Hamilton and began my insurance career with a National Group Insurer in Mississauga. I’m thankful to be able to call, Kitchener-Waterloo, my home.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT)
  • Governor General's Queen Diamond Jubilee Award winner
  • Waterloo Region 40 under 40 recipient
  • Kitchener Centennial's ‘Top 100 People Past, Present, Future making a difference in our community’
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Jeffrey Dow

CFO, Treasurer of the Board
Career Experience

As an accounting professional, I am continually striving to increase my knowledge in order to provide effective solutions to problems we may be facing. I have held a variety of positions in large public firms in a variety of industries; focusing on areas including finance, audit, project management and information technology. These positions have allowed me to develop exceptional interpersonal communication skills as well as enhance my ability to critically analyze a situation. I am currently in the final stages of completing my CMA,CPA designation and look forward to furthering my career in a dynamic and fast paced environment.

Education
  • MAcc, UW
  • BAFM, UW
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Dean McKillop

Partner, Director of the Board
Career Experience

I have been in the insurance industry for over 27 years in commercial sales. In 2009 I joined Lackner McLennan. My focus continues to be on the commercial side of things. While I deal with diverse types of businesses including contractors, trucking companies and general manufacturing, I have a large portfolio of farm equipment manufacturers.

Having been in the business for many years, I have long-standing clients and enjoy the relationships that have been established over this time.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT), 1990
  • CAIB, Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker, 1996
  • CIP, Chartered Insurance Professional, 2005
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Albert Schmidt

Partner, Marketing Manager, Secretary of the Board
Career Experience

I started my Insurance Career with Erb and Erb Insurance Brokers and am very proud to be a part of the new Lackner McLennan/Erb and Erb organization. I have worked at many roles within Erb and Erb, working my way up from CSR, special project manager, trainer and sales and marketing manager. Now as the Secretary of the Board my duties have expanded again. I am honoured to serve such a fine company.

In July 2016 I became a partner in the firm of Lackner McLennan when they purchased Erb and Erb Insurance Brokers Ltd. and today I am the Marketing Manager of both Lackner McLennan and Erb and Erb.

Education
  • BA Honours, Anthropology 1999
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT) since 2003
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Cameron E.K. Yule

Partner, President of the Board
Career Experience

Since beginning my General Insurance career in 1981, my efforts have been focused on the development of a commercial clientele empowering them to make wise insurance choices that are unique to their business. This professional relationship has allowed me to provide a full service team to manage not only the commercial insurance but also their personal insurance needs. I pride myself on my insurance knowledge and continually update this knowledge to deliver the best advice I can to my clients.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT) since 1981
  • CIP, Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP)
  • B.A., University of Waterloo
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Spencer R.K. Yule

Account Executive
Career Experience

My career in the insurance industry began at the company level as a Commercial Property Underwriter with Economical Insurance in 2010. I was part of Economical’s E.L.I.T.E. training program which focused on the development of underwriters through junior, intermediate and senior levels. At Economical I learned the importance of developing and maintaining positive broker relationships which I brought with me when I joined Lackner McLennan Insurance in early 2013. My extensive knowledge of building construction, class of business and underwriting principles contribute to front line underwriting; a key aspect of a brokers role.

I believe that managing expectations with open communication builds strong relationships, ones which go beyond just a work environment. Above all, I have an unwavering commitment to deliver quality service to my clients.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT) 2013
  • CIP, Chartered Insurance Professional
  • B.A., Western University
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Account Executives

Andrew Harden

CIP, Account Executive
Career Experience

I started my career in the insurance industry with Economical Insurance as a Commercial Auto Underwriter and was part of their E.L.I.T.E underwriting training program. I also spent time with Travelers Canada as a Commercial Auto & Property Underwriter and as a Broker Training Specialist. My time spent on the company side has allowed me to develop and maintain important relationships that I’ve been able to carry over with me here at Lackner McLennan.

It’s important to me to develop professional relationships, deliver quality service, and provide my clients with the knowledge they need to make informed insurance decisions for their businesses.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT)
  • CIP, Chartered Insurance Professional
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W.K. Andrew Kirkwood

Account Executive
Career Experience

I have been in the insurance industry since 2002. In 2013, I joined Lackner McLennan. My experience has included, but has not been limited to marketing a successful insurance commercial property and garage auto insurance program for the car-wash industry, developing customized insurance solutions for manufacturers, wholesale distribution companies, fast-food franchise groups, contractors, the hospitality industry, health and nutrition (including neutraceuticals) and small business owners.

I am thrilled to be part of Lackner McLennan’s team of insurance professionals.

Family is everything to me. Serving others is my passion.

Education
  • BA History, Wilfrid Laurier University
  • BA Speech Communication, University of Waterloo
  • Corporate Communications Diploma, Sheridan College
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David Lackner

Account Executive
Career Experience

My focus, as an Account Executive, is on the commercial side of the Property and Casualty insurance business. Over the years I have developed a very diverse book of clients and I pride myself in being able to find a “home” for almost any type, size and class of business. Customizing an insurance program to meet the unique requirements of my clients is a commitment I make with each and every client. This commitment has resulted in many very satisfied long term customers.

I began my General Insurance career with Lackner McLennan Insurance Ltd in 2001. Prior to joining Lackner McLennan I was a Territory Manager with Kaycan Ltd, Pella Division.

I am a graduate from Mt.Allison University with a Batchelor of Science Degree as well as obtaining my Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker and Canadian Risk Management designations. I pride myself on my business knowledge but also on my insurance expertise and continually update this knowledge so I can deliver the best advice possible to you, my Client.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT), 1990
  • Bachelor of Science (1991)
  • Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB) 2007
  • Canadian Risk Management (2007)
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Joanne LeGal

Account Executive
Career Experience

I pride myself as a seasoned professional, continually striving to increase my insurance knowledge so my clients can make informed decisions. My insurance career began in 1985 in Alberta as a Technical Service Representative. A move to Toronto offered a Commercial Account Manager role, allowing me the opportunity to build relationships with underwriters, co-workers and my clients. After taking a three and half year leave to raise my family, I returned back to the Insurance Industry as a Commercial Lines Producer (Account Executive) which I take pride in understanding and assessing my clients business operations, keeping up-to-date with any ongoing changes and conveying that I am here for the duration.

The team-based approach that Lackner McLennan embraces has allowed me to apply my various skills from customer service, documentation, certificates of insurance, invoicing and claims in an efficient manner.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT), 1989
  • Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) 2005
  • Canadian Risk Management currently enrolled
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Lynn Lubczuk

Group Home & Auto Specialist
Career Experience

My career in General Insurance began in 2005 when I re-entered the work force after spending 22 years at home raising my family.  I became a personal lines producer (Account Manager), specializing in Group Home and Auto Insurance in 2007.  I very much enjoy the contact with my clients, the opportunity to provide them with exceptional service and insurance that meets their requirements.  I joined Lackner McLennan in 2016.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT), 2012
  • Bachelor of Psychology
  • Bachelor of Business Administration
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Tim Pawlowski

Account Executive, Commercial Sales Manager
Career Experience

As an Insurance Professional, my focus is to develop and maintain professional relationships with commercial clients providing them with the knowledge to make wise insurance choices and superior service putting my clients interest first.

I started my insurance career in 1981 holding roles in business development and business development management with major insurance brokers. I have always taken pride in my insurance knowledge and am continually updating this knowledge to provide the best advice for my clients.

Education
  • Canadian Chartered Insurance Broker (CCIB)
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT), 1984
  • Business Graduate from Conestoga College
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Account Managers

Sharon Carlisle

Commercial Account Manager
Career Experience

I started my career in the Insurance Industry in 1986, working in Commercial Lines Service for a large Brokerage. When I came to Canada, I became a Registered Insurance Broker in 1991 and continued to focus on Commercial Insurance.

I first joined Lackner McLennan in 1992 and enjoyed working as a Commercial Lines Service Broker for almost 11 years.

I was pleased to return to Lackner McLennan in 2014 in my current position as a Commercial Lines Account Manager.

Our clients are important to me and I ensure that I continually update my insurance knowledge to best serve them.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT) 1991 and 2012
  • CAIB, Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker. 1994
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Kathy Chan

Account Manager of Acupuncture Program
Career Experience

Prior to joining Lackner McLennan, I worked in administration at a global relocation company for 15 years. I joined Lackner McLennan in March 2016 as a Technical Service Representative. In June 2016, I successfully achieved my R.I.B(Ont.) license, which allowed me to transition over to a more advanced position as an Account Manager. I enjoy working with clients and providing great customer service, but more importantly, I also enjoy the pleasant working atmosphere found at Lackner McLennan and am pleased to be part of the team.

Education
Advanced Diploma in Secretarial and Administrative in HK R.I.B (Ont.) 2016
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Ciara Dixon

Account Manager of Comp Health Program
Career Experience

Prior to joining Lackner McLennan in May 2016 I spent 9 years in the hospitality industry. This provided me with the knowledge and ability to deal with an array of clientele on a daily basis and offer exceptional customer service.

Since obtaining my R.I.B.O licence in June 2016 I have enjoyed being a Technical Service representative and more recently advancing my role to an Account Manager of Complimentary Health in the Groups department. I look forward to providing outstanding customer relations and furthering my career in the insurance world for many years to come.

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Angela Grigg

Technical Service Representative
Career Experience

 

My insurance career began with Lackner McLennan in October 2016 as a Technical Service Representative in the Group Department. I enjoyed learning about this industry and when the opportunity arose to take my RIBO course I couldn’t say no. Now I am a Customer Service Representative and am excited to see where this career will take me over the years.

I have always enjoyed working in the customer service industry and strive to achieve a high level of customer service in my day to day interactions with our clients.

Education
RIBO 2017 Bachelor of Arts, University of Guelph 2014
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Louisa Grigg

Personal Lines Account Manager
Career Experience

I have been in the insurance industry since 1985 and joined the Lackner McLennan team in 1997. I specialize in all forms of personal insurance and am continually updating my knowledge to better service our clients. I very much enjoy interacting with our clients and always keep their best interests in mind.

The insurance industry has allowed me to realize my career goals and I plan to work in this industry until I retire.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT), 1985
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Deanna Hadenko

Personal Lines Account Manager
Career Experience
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Ashley Holinshead

Commercial Account Manager
Career Experience

I started my career in the insurance industry in 2008 and joined Lackner McLennan in 2010 dealing with personal lines in a role of new business sales and support. As of 2013, I moved to the commercial lines department as an Account Manager. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge base of the insurance world.

Delivering exceptional customer service to our clients and providing insurance choices that best suit individual client needs is crucial and something that I strive for and take pride in.

Education
  • (2012) CAIB, Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (2012)
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT) 2008
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Brianna Kilbride

Commercial Account Manager
Career Experience

I joined Lackner McLennan in 2013 as a Data Processor. This position intrigued me and opened my eyes towards the insurance industry.

I was approached to take on a new role as a Technical Services Representative and could not pass up the opportunity. After successfully obtaining my RIBO license I was confident I made the right decision to pursue this career.

I am thankful to be starting my career in a comfortable and encouraging atmosphere at Lackner McLennan. I look forward to continuing my education and providing exceptional customer service.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT) 2015
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Kelly A. Kilbride

Commercial Account Manager
Career Experience

I was fortunate to begin my Insurance Career as a file clerk with a large Insurance Company. This enabled me to work my way through various positions within the Company and ignited the desire to continue in the Insurance field as an Account Manager-specifically in Personal lines. I felt the more experience and knowledge I had, the better I would be able to educate my clients and make sure that all of their Insurance needs were met. After raising my family, I sought the Broker route to continue my Career and eventually the Commercial Lines aspect of the Industry. The challenge of an ever-evolving Society has encouraged me to keep my Education up to date to ensure that I possess the most current information available to my clients.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT), 1992
  • CAIB, Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker, 2004
  • CIP, Chartered Insurance Professional, 2008
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Amanda Kuntz

Technical Service Representative
Career Experience

I started my insurance career in 2014 working in personal lines and am excited to join Lackner McLennan Insurance working in the commercial lines department. I enjoy the dynamic and evolving nature of the industry and am excited to build upon my knowledge and skills.

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Dianne Leclerc

Personal Lines Account Manager
Career Experience

I bring more than 20 years of professional experience to my role as Account Manager at Lackner McLennan. My primary focus is on customer service through which I aim to connect my clients with the best coverages for their needs.

I am excited to be part of the Lackner McLennan team and hope to continue to build a portfolio based on trust, efficiency and strong advocacy for my client’s interests.

I look forward to working with you to meet you insurance needs.

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Beth McVeigh

Account Manager, Group Program
Career Experience

I worked in the Travel Industry for 15 years before recently deciding to change careers. I joined Lackner McLennan in April 2015 as a Technical Representative in the Group department. In July 2015, I successfully completed my RIBO Licensing, which allowed me to become an Account Manager in the Group Department. I brought many years of Customer Service with me from the Travel Industry and I look forward to continually upgrading my skills and training in order to provide the exceptional quality of service Lackner McLennan offers.

Education
RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT) 2015
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Joey Moorehouse

Operations Manager
Career Experience

Over the past 28 years in the Insurance Industry, I have had the opportunity to experience different roles and responsibilities resulting in my highest respect for all positions in this industry. The self-satisfaction I felt in providing personal lines clients with guidance in making the best insurance decisions was very rewarding and after 10 years in this division with a small amount of commercial interaction, my path took me to the commercial side of insurance exclusively. The challenges that come in this area of insurance are continual and provide an amazing learning experience daily. With the technical knowledge along with people skills, I stepped into the role of a Commercial Service Manager for 6 years taking me to my current position as Operations Manager. Here I work with the Managing Partner, Financial Manager and Assistant Operations Manager in the management decisions of the brokerage. The major responsibility of my role is the participation in hiring, terminating, reviewing, disciplining and resolving conflicts with personnel; develop and maintain procedures and workflows; develop and direct training activities to ensure compliance with RIBO requirements; manage staff vacation, sick leave and appointment scheduling; provide assistance to Account Representatives, Account Executives and Marketing as required while creating an environment for team co-operation and enjoyment.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT), 1987
  • Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB), 2001
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Tineke Nethery

Technical Service Representative
Career Experience

I started as a Receptionist at Erb & Erb in October of 2016, shortly after I started I was offered a position at Lackner McLennan as a Technical Service Representative.  With encouragement from management I took the RIBO course.  I have learned so much in such a short time and am happy that I took the risk to try something different.  I am excited to see where this new adventure takes me and look forward to coming into work everyday!

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Yijie Ren

Junior Group Client Administrator
Career Experience

Life is full of unexpected challenges and adventures. Starting a new career in insurance industry is one of them. I joined Lackner Mclennan in May 2017 as a Junior Group Client Administrator. I’m fully enjoying being part of a great team as well as building on my knowledge and skills.

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Lisa Schenk

Commercial Account Manager
Career Experience

With over 15 years of business and insurance industry experience, I bring a high level of expertise to our corporate commercial clients. I aim to provide exceptional advice and service to ensure our clients make the best decision for their insurance needs. After a leave to raise my family, I returned to the industry and joined Lackner McLennan as a Commercial Account Manager. I am proud to be a part of this team!

RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT) 2000

CAIB, Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker 2006

CRM, Canadian Risk Management – currently enrolled

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Leslie Schweitzer

Commercial Account Manager
Career Experience

Since 2004 I have been in the insurance industry, joining Lackner McLennan in 2009. My focus is on Commercial Lines. Customer service is of utmost importance to me as I believe it is the backbone of any company. I also value the pleasant working atmosphere found at Lackner McLennan and am pleased to be part of the team.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT), 2004
  • CSIP, Customer Service for the Insurance Professional, 2007
  • CAIB, Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker, 2009
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Paula Sommers

Personal Lines Account Manager
Career Experience

Since beginning my General Insurance career in 1994, my efforts have been focused on customer service for personal lines clientele, providing wise insurance choices that best suit each individual client’s needs. I pride myself on my insurance knowledge and continually update this knowledge to always do my best for all customers.

Education
  • Registered Insurance Broker (ONT) 1994
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Rebecca Staines

Commercial Technical Service Representative
Career Experience

Prior to joining Lackner McLennan in 2013, I worked as a physiotherapy assistant in long-term care. After 6 happy years, I decided to make a change. I entered the exciting world of commercial insurance.

I enjoy working with clients and providing great customer service. But more importantly, I love the atmosphere and people here at Lackner McLennan. We are a team and without that mentality we would not be so successful.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT) 2013
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Scott Underwood

Personal Lines Account Manager
Career Experience

I first started out in the Insurance Industry as a co-op student through Conestoga College working in claims for Crawford Adjusters in 2008. After graduation I took a job in the Health/Life side of the Business working as a Claims Examiner for Sun Life Financial and focused doing that for sometime. In 2012 I decided I wanted to get back into the General Insurance Industry, so I wrote my RIBO exam for my license to become an Insurance Broker and haven’t looked back since. I worked for a small brokerage in Waterloo first before joining Lackner Mclennan in early 2013. I find my career very rewarding and I look forward to coming into work everyday.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT), 2012
  • Conestoga College - Business Insurance Graduate, 2009
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Melissa Wyse

Assistant Operations Manager
Career Experience

I joined Lackner McLennan Insurance Ltd in 2001. My current role is in the Commercial Lines Department as an Account Manager for various Commercial Accounts as well as accepting an additional role as Assistant Operations Manager in January 2008.

My focus as an Account Manager is on Customer Service while my position as Assistant Operations Manager offers me the opportunity to provide training and participate in policy and procedural development Having been granted the Power of Attorney from our Surety markets, I work closely with the Partners and Producers to develop and service Contract Surety Facilities and Accounts. This ultimately results in timely and comprehensive service for our clients in this specialized business requirement.

To date I have completed three Insurance designations: Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB) in 2005, Canadian Risk Management (CRM) in 2007 and my Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation in 2011. These courses offer industry specific knowledge that is associated with my position and the types, sizes and classes of accounts that I service on a day-to-day basis. I am committed to continually updating my knowledge to deliver the best service and risk management advice I can to our clients.

Education
  • RIBO, Registered Insurance Broker (ONT) 2002
  • CAIB, Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker, Honors Graduate, 2005
  • Canadian Risk Manger, (CRM) 2007
  • CIP, 2011
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Meghan Zwaniga

Commercial Technical Service Representative
Career Experience

I joined Lackner McLennan in June 2015 as a Commercial Technical Service Representative. In a short time I have learned a lot and look forward to continue building my knowledge and skills in this industry.

Education
Sheridan College – Tourism & Travel Graduate
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Administration Staff

Shirley Kendrick

Administrative Assistant
Career Experience

I have a broad range of experience within an administrative role in various industries. In 2007, I joined Lackner McLennan where I continue to expand my skills.

I have always enjoyed interacting with the general public and am pleased to be part of the team at Lackner McLennan where customer service is of utmost importance.

Education
  • College equivalent attained in the UK, Business Support
  • General accounting in Canada
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