INSURANCE BROKERS ASSOCIATION OF SASKATCHEWAN - www.ibas.ca Volume 2, Issue 2 | Winter 2021
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Publications mail agreement #43155015
INSURANCE BROKERS www.ibas.ca
ASSOCIATION OF SASKATCHEWAN Volume 2, Issue 2 | Winter 2021
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INSURANCE BROKERS
ASSOCIATION OF SASKATCHEWAN
THANK YOU TO OUR 2021 PARTNERS
IBAS’s 2021 Partners are organizations that invest in the long-term health of the association and its mandate through a
minimum annual sponsorship commitment. On behalf of the IBAS board of directors and membership, thank you to the
following partners that continue to go above and beyond to support the broker network in Saskatchewan:
4 SaskBroker Magazine | Winter 2021
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INSURANCE BROKERS
ASSOCIATION OF SASKATCHEWAN
2631 – 28th Avenue, Suite 305
Regina SK S4S 6X3
Phone: 306-525-5900
www.ibas.ca
Derek Lothian
President & CEO
306-525-4075
derek.lothian@ibas.ca
IN THIS ISSUE 2020-21 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dave Pettigrew (Chair)
Harvard Western Insurance
Blown away
Dave Reidy (Vice Chair)
As the final calendar page turned on the headache that was 2020, many of us Henderson Insurance
found ourselves embracing the first inklings of hope that had surfaced in quite
some time. But Mother Nature always has a way of putting us back in our place. Sarah Edwards (Secretary-Treasurer)
And, on January 13, she teamed up with her good friend Jack Frost to remind Bora Insurance Brokers
24 us that 2021 and 2020 are indeed very harsh cousins. Jason Galon
Galon Insurance Brokers
Ready for a rebound? Jaycee Turtle
Lakeview Insurance Brokers
Supply chain issues, travel restrictions, COVID-19 immunization progress,
and a myriad of other factors will all have unique impact on the prosperity Jayne Gorrill
of individual sectors of Saskatchewan’s economy over the next year. What, Hoffman Kool Insurance
though, are the experts forecasting? We reached out to five of the best and Keith Jordan
28 brightest to ask their predictions and insights for 2021. HUB International
Nicole Korpusik
Norquay Agencies
Winter Advocacy Report
IBAS President & CEO Derek Lothian shares his thoughts on the PUBLICATION CONTACTS
importance of the association’s ongoing advocacy efforts, and provides
For editorial inquiries:
an update on the files IBAS is advancing on behalf of its members — Nicole Sinclair
from best terms pricing and SGI motor licence issuing negotiations to Editor, SaskBroker Magazine
36 the hardened commercial market. 306-525-4078
nicole.sinclair@ibas.ca
For advertising inquiries:
REGULAR FEATURES 1-877-880-3392
ronda@rlmediaservices.ca
Published and designed by
8 In Camera with IBAS Board Chair Dave Pettigrew
New year, new optimism RL Media Services
© Copyright 2021, RL Media Services.
12 Carrier’s Perspective
Seventy-five years of supporting Saskatchewan, and we’re just
All rights reserved. The contents of this
publication may not be reproduced by any
means, in whole or in part, without prior
getting started
written consent of the publisher.
16 National Priorities
Hindsight is 2020
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#43155015
18 CEO’s Notebook Return undeliverable Canadian copies
How the COVID-19 vaccine has laid the blueprint for insurance to the IBAS office via the address above.
industry collaboration While every effort has been made to ensure
the accuracy of the information contained in
50 Special Announcement
Celebrating community leadership
and the reliability of the source, the publisher
in no way guarantees nor warrants the
information and is not responsible for errors,
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Opinions and recommendations made by
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those of the publisher, its directors, officers, or
6 SaskBroker Magazine | Winter 2021 employees.
IN CAMERA
with IBAS Board Chair Dave Pettigrew
New year,
new optimism
By Dave Pettigrew, President & CEO, Harvard Western Insurance
T
here is no other way to put it: 2020 sucked. And I, for one, International), and Nicole Korpusik (Norquay Agencies). We are
could not be happier to see it in the rear-view mirror. also lucky to have added Jason Galon (Galon Insurance Brokers)
Yes, we are still months away from a return to normal as a new director.
(whatever ‘normal’ will look like), but the year that This continuity has undoubtedly helped IBAS weather the
brought us COVID, social distancing, and Zoom calls is over, and uncertainty of the pandemic and remains a highly rewarding
that alone is reason for celebration. experience. Now is the time to start thinking about whether
Cynicism aside, the past 12 months have truly been you may be interested in board service when we issue a call
transformative for the insurance industry in Saskatchewan. The for interest again this fall. Don’t hesitate to reach out for more
adoption of new technologies has accelerated, both within information if you’d like to put your name forward.
and between brokerages and carriers. Customers have been
driven increasingly towards digital service options. Traditional Return to in-person events
workforce dynamics have been uprooted. And our members
IBAS recognizes the important role that face-to-face
have made record investments in training and licensing up staff.
relationship-building plays in the insurance industry. To that
These will have a lasting impact on our businesses well beyond
end, we continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation, including
the lifting of public health restrictions.
the rollout of vaccinations, in the hopes of safely returning to
For IBAS, the disruption caused by the pandemic has been
in-person events in 2021. In weighing our options, however, your
equally as consequential. We were forced to cancel numerous
events, transition heavily towards online engagement, and health and safety will remain our top consideration and priority.
navigate a litany of advocacy issues we didn’t even know existed Given the current vaccination schedule announced by the
prior to last March. Through it all, however, IBAS demonstrated Government of Canada, IBAS is aiming to host two in-person
just how vital the association is to Saskatchewan brokers — events in 2021 (pending public health conditions and meeting
perhaps in a way that may not have otherwise been possible. the target of vaccinating all Canadians by the end of September):
The team also displayed incredible resilience and adaptability, • 2021 IBAS Golf Tournament: The first is the 2021 IBAS Golf
from pulling off a superb virtual convention to solidifying IBAS’s Tournament, which is currently scheduled for Tuesday,
position as a leading authority and influence with government, June 15 in Warman. If the event proceeds on this day,
regulators, and carriers alike. If there was ever a year that it will likely be under a modified format to align with
reinforced the value proposition of IBAS membership, 2020 provincial guidelines and ensure maximum safety. We
was it, and is a case study in why it is one of the most important have, however, also reserved Thursday, September 16 as
investment decisions a brokerage can make. an alternate slot, so please save both dates.
All these factors — paired with the arrival of a COVID vaccine • 2021 IBAS Convention: Two dates are currently being
— breathe new optimism for me as we embark along the path held for the 2021 IBAS Convention in Saskatoon (both a
of 2021. At IBAS, the New Year has started the same way the old Thursday and Friday): October 14 & 15 and October 28 &
one ended: At a torrent pace, with a great deal of enthusiasm. 29. We are waiting to see if the vaccination rollout remains
Here are some of the reasons why: on schedule before making a final decision.
2021-22 Board of Directors Leaders Forum
I am very fortunate to be joined on the IBAS board by six Back in January, IBAS announced the launch of its new
other returning directors from last year: Vice Chair Dave Reidy Leaders Forum in conjunction with SGI CANADA. This yearlong
(Henderson Insurance), Secretary-Treasurer Sarah Edwards (Bora pilot program (beginning in April) will bring together a select
Insurance Brokers), Jaycee Turtle (Lakeview Insurance Brokers), group of brokerage principals and emerging brokerage leaders
Jayne Gorill (Hoffman Kool Insurance), Keith Jordan (HUB for facilitated monthly meetings that blend peer mentorship,
8 SaskBroker Magazine | Winter 2021
Spruce Up Your Story is back and
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group discussion, targeted learning, and shared accountability. Climate Adaptation at the University of Waterloo. I hope to ‘see’
Each meeting will focus on a topic of mutual interest — often you there!
led by an expert guest speaker — and will provide a confidential,
constructive environment for participants to navigate the Strengthened member engagement
challenges facing their brokerages. The number one reason for optimism at IBAS in 2021 is you.
This is one of the most exciting projects we’ve ever It has been wonderful to see how our members have stepped up
undertaken at IBAS. It’s not just about building leadership to the plate through the pandemic to make a difference for the
capacity — it’s about creating an ecosystem to nurture the broker community at-large. Whether you’ve joined a member
growth of resilient, innovative, and world-class insurance advisory committee to help steer association policy, have made
brokerages that will thrive in Saskatchewan communities for a contribution to support our annual charity campaign, or have
decades. Visit www.ibas.ca to learn more. participated in one of our many events or programs, thank you.
Your involvement makes the difference, and we can only do what
New professional development opportunities we do with your support.
In direct response to member input from the 2020 Brokerage
Issues Survey, IBAS has been working hard to coordinate several Dedicated staff
free or low-cost CE-eligible online events and seminars in the Last but certainly not least: We are fortunate to have a small-
first half of 2021. but-mighty staff at IBAS, who did an amazing job adjusting to
From negotiation and sales skills to lean and continuous the many challenges of 2020. COVID threw them a curve ball and
improvement, there is something for everyone. My personal they hit it out of the park. Congratulations to Derek Lothian and
favourite is the return of the Saskatchewan Summit of Young his team — I know we can expect big things in the year ahead!
Insurance Professionals on March 25 as a 100 per cent free, On behalf of the entire board, our best wishes for a safe,
fully digital event. Unfortunately, the 2020 iteration had to healthy, and prosperous 2021!
be cancelled due to COVID; however, the summit is back with
a vengeance in 2021, featuring an industry-best line-up of Dave Pettigrew is the president and CEO of Harvard Western
speakers that includes MSA Research President & CEO Joel Insurance. This past October, he was elected to a third term as chair
Baker and Blair Feltmate, who heads up the Intact Centre on of the IBAS board of directors.
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Seventy-five years of
supporting Saskatchewan,
and we’re just getting started
By Shelley Vandenberg, President & CEO, Saskatchewan Blue Cross
2
020 was anything but normal — it was, without a doubt, members. We’re evolving while staying true to what’s made us
a defining moment in human history. It was also the so special over the years: Being local means that we care deeply
year I stepped into the role of president and CEO of about delivering exemplary service, building trust, and investing
Saskatchewan Blue Cross and ushered in one of my most in the wellbeing of our communities.
inspiring and humbling years as a leader.
Our world and the insurance industry are moving faster Looking forward
than they ever have before, and the events of 2020 forced us all
A mission to empower communities on their journey to whole
to take a hard look at the ways we’ve conventionally operated health and wellness. A vision for a future of lifelong health and
and delivered service. It required us to reimagine who we want wellbeing for every person in Saskatchewan. A culture anchored by
to be and how we connect with each other. It demanded new the core values of empathy, ambition, dependability, flexibility and
thinking that wasn’t always easy. The unwavering commitment, discipline, and building community.
dedication, and passion my team demonstrated through Demands for helpful support and seamless, simple, and
immense, unexpected change during my first year with them well-curated experiences that deliver exceptional service are
was nothing short of remarkable. increasing. This year, Saskatchewan Blue Cross has an ambitious
As I look toward 2021 and the future of Saskatchewan Blue series of advances rolling out to help meet these needs,
Cross, I’m struck with a sense of both gratitude and excitement. including new tools for Personal Health Plan members, a new
Gratitude for a rich 75-year history in our province: When broker portal, advances to our group business, new products,
we first opened our doors as a not-for-profit organization in and a heightened focus on community investment in a time
1946, we were just seven doctors who saw a better path — we when community organizations need our support more than
wanted people to have more equal access to essential health ever.
care services. Fast forward to today, and we’ve helped to lay Through investments in people and culture, we’re
the foundations for health insurance in Saskatchewan and now encouraging fresh thinking in all areas of our operations, honing
proudly support more than 100,000 members and more than skills development, and fostering a collective capacity for
1,200 employers accessing health, wellness, and travel insurance innovation.
that provides peace of mind.
Excitement for the future: 2021 marks our 75th anniversary, On the immediate horizon
and there’s a hum of positive energy travelling throughout our
organization. We’re building a bright future together, and it’s a Enabling Personal Health Plan members
truly transformative time. We reimagined our mission, vision, January 2021 saw the launch of a new member portal,
and values in 2020, and we’re in the midst of a multi-year journey enabling Personal Health Plan members to submit claims online
to reinvent key parts of our business through digitization, through a simple three-step process, check their claims status,
new product and service agility, and a suite of new tools to determine remaining coverage on their benefits, and much
enable stronger relationships with our broker partners and our more. This, and a supporting app about to launch, would not
“As businesses, business owners, our partners, and as leaders in your community, I encourage
you to look inwards. Look at what your people and your community need from you. Look at your
practices and how you enable them through technology, security, and innovation. Where the
compass is pointing us has changed. This is the time for reinvention in our industry.”
12 SaskBroker Magazine | Winter 2021Taking care
of Saskatchewan’s
legacy.
sk.bluecross.ca
®Saskatchewan Blue Cross is a registered trade-mark of the Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans, used under licence by Medical Services Incorporated,
an independent licensee. *Trade-mark of the Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans. †Trade-mark of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.have been possible without feedback and input from our broker the Saskatchewan Health Authority, providing essential PPE
network and valued members. Your suggestions for functionality equipment to first responders and hospitals, and sponsoring
and service improvements are shaping the development of our Med Hack+ — an initiative leveraging technology to research the
digital platforms, products, and experiences. COVID-19 genome.
In 2021, we’re continuing to support community
New and improved plans for small businesses organizations advancing health and wellness across our
With approximately 149,000 small businesses in province, and, as proud sponsors of the IBAS Community
Saskatchewan, and 98 per cent of these with less than 20 Leadership Award, we’re excited to recognize brokers who go
employees, we saw a need for a new, flexible, and affordable above and beyond to make a difference in Saskatchewan.
group benefits plan that provides tailored quotes to business
owners in minutes. This new plan — Blue Essentials — also A time for reinvention
launched in January 2021, and includes coverage for hospital 2020 was a year of exciting change, and 2021 will be no
stays, health practitioners, dental, vision, prescription drugs, different. As businesses, business owners, our partners, and as
travel and more, with add-on customizable options like term life leaders in your community, I encourage you to look inwards.
insurance or critical illness coverage. Look at what your people and your community need from
you. Look at your practices and how you enable them through
Deepening focus on community investment technology, security, and innovation. Where the compass is
Over the years, we’ve been a long-time supporter of and pointing us has changed. This is the time for reinvention in our
partner to hundreds of Saskatchewan community organizations, industry.
investing our funds, resources, energy, and spirit to meaningfully
advance the places we call home. This past year in particular, Shelley Vandenberg became the president and CEO of
we worked to support those impacted by the pandemic, Saskatchewan Blue Cross in January 2020. Prior to assuming
including donating 8,000 litres of sanitizer to first responders that role, Shelley held positions as president of First Calgary
in partnership with LB Distillers and Stumbletown Distilling, Financial and Legacy Financial, and as senior vice president of risk
arming 30,000 frontline workers with mask ear guard straps with management with Connect First Credit Union.
Property | General Liability | Products Liability | Bodily Injury
Professional Liability | Medical Malpractice | Heavy Equipment
Farm Equipment | Semi Truck Cargo | ATV | Snowmobile
Recreational Vehicles | Watercraft
REGINA
REGINA REGINA SASKATOON SWIFT CURRENT LLOYDMINSTER
Garrett Schous, CIP Shari Mosthaf, CIP
garrett@midwestclaims.ca shari@midwestclaims.ca 2-2072 McIntyre St 3-2217 Hanselman Ct 317-12 Cheadle St W Box 11992
Garrett Schous, CIP Rob Johnston, CIP Lloydminster AB T9V 3C3
306-533-4784 306-537-8489 Regina SK S4P 2R6 Saskatoon SK S7L 6A8 Swift Current SK S9H 0A9
garrett@midwestclaims.ca rob@midwestclaims.ca
306-533-4784
Curtis Horwath Darren Kuznitsoff, CIP
306-529-5365 Ph 306-522-1656 Ph 306-668-0870 Ph 306-773-8848 Ph 780-808-6155
curtis@midwestclaims.ca darren@midwestclaims.ca Fx 306-569-1256 Fx 306-249-4114 Fx 306-773-8849 Fx 1-888-856-8982
Curtis Horwath
306-536-4450 Shari Mosthaf, CIP
306-591-3358
curtis@midwestclaims.ca shari@midwestclaims.ca
Jordan Demarsh
306-536-4450 Amy Woods
306-537-8489 Midwest Claims Services provides Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Alberta wide insurance claims
jordan@midwestclaims.ca amy@midwestclaims.ca
Jordan Demarsh
306-533-2546 Darren Kuznitsoff, CIP
306-550-4444 services. We provide 24-hour claims service, 7 days a week. Our after-hours service is a prairie-wide
jordan@midwestclaims.ca darren@midwestclaims.ca service available for you and your clients at (306)533-0732. Midwest Claims Services is the prairie
Colin Warnecke, CIP Jay Schwindt, BKIN, CRCA, CIP
306-533-2546 306-591-3358
colin@midwestclaims.ca jay@midwestclaims.ca leader in providing insurance claims services. With offices in Regina, Saskatoon, Swift Current, and
Colin Warnecke, CIP
306-530-3054 306-526-9612
colin@midwestclaims.ca Lloydminster we provide the most comprehensive network of adjusters in the prairies. Midwest’s
SASKATOON
306-530-3054
Lee Dixon, B.Comm, CIP Nathan Rivard, CIP, CFEI, CRM offices are strategically located to provide a high quality, low cost insurance claims service alternative
SASKATOON
lee@midwestclaims.ca nathan@midwestclaims.ca to the large national firms operating in Canada.
306-361-5285 306-250-3834
Lee Dixon, B.Comm, CIP Nathan Rivard, CIP, CFEI
Jamie Birns Don Zazula, CIP
nathan@midwestclaims.ca
lee@midwestclaims.ca
jamie@midwestclaims.ca don@midwestclaims.ca We take pride in utilizing a common sense approach to the adjustment of claims while at the same
306-361-5285 306-250-3834
306-361-0020 306-221-3311 time ultimately striving to be fair to both the insurance underwriters and the clients who suffer the loss.
Jamie Birns Don Zazula, CIP
Michael Gauthier, ACIP
jamie@midwestclaims.ca Kevin Buchholz, BA
don@midwestclaims.ca By employing this philosophy in conjunction with the fundamental principles of claims investigations
michael@midwestclaims.ca kevin@midwestclaims.ca
306-361-0020
306-850-9810
306-221-3311
306-281-5390 and adjustments, we focus on amicably resolving the issues in the shortest period of time.
SWIFT CURRENT LLOYDMINSTER
Nicole McClelland, CIP Luc Turcotte, B.COMM, FCIP
DISASTER RESPONSE | 24 Hour Emergency Claims | 306-533-0732
admin@midwestclaims.ca www.midwestclaims.ca
nicole@midwestclaims.ca luc@midwestclaims.ca
306-774-9642 780-808-6155
14 SaskBroker Magazine | Winter 2021CONTRACTORS
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https://www.april.ca/commercial-web-quoting/NATIONAL PRIORITIES
Hindsight is 2020
By Peter Braid, CEO, Insurance Brokers Association of Canada
C
hurchill once said we should and the stability and peace of mind that lower costs, and improve the customer
never let a crisis go to waste. brokers provide in a world of risk and experience. As Canadians demand
Looking back on the challenges uncertainty. more digital solutions, brokerages that
of 2020, what opportunities We also must capitalize on the strong embrace technological advancement will
emerged that will lead to a brighter and demand and momentum for technology. reap the benefits.
more prosperous future for insurance One of the main lessons of the past Another welcome byproduct of the
brokers? year is the critical need to have a strong pandemic has been the heightened level
First and foremost, there is an technical infrastructure. It is no longer a of communication and engagement
enormous opportunity to further amplify ‘nice to have’ — it is now a key factor in between broker associations and their
the essential value of the insurance determining which businesses will thrive members.
broker. and which will struggle. IBAS and other IBAC member
Consumers have always known In the insurance industry, this means associations have been diligent in
how important it is to have a trusted systems that talk to each other in the keeping their members informed
professional in their corner, working for same language and in real time. IBAC has through a number of channels, including
their best interests. In the midst of the been leading the efforts to achieve real- e-mail newsletters and bulletins, social
pandemic, when people needed help time connectivity for several years, and media, virtual meetings and conventions,
with insurer relief programs or payment the pandemic has only heightened the and other online forums. The increased
flexibility, they turned to their trusted urgency. Now, with the addition of a full use of digital solutions has had the added
insurance broker. The care, compassion, time Broker Connectivity Lead, Tom Reid, benefit of increasing engagement among
and customer service that brokers we are making substantial progress. members in smaller or more remote
provided for their clients will not soon be DX Connect is the next iteration in communities.
forgotten. We must continue to build on the IBAC mission to implement real-time They have also found innovative
that positive impression. connectivity in the broker channel. By ways to continue to work effectively to
The Insurance Brokers Association using IBAC’s convening power, we are support and advocate for their members
of Canada (IBAC) is highlighting the bringing together industry partners and provide valuable services. That is
importance of the broker in our new to form the DX Connect Alliance. the advantage of belonging to a broker
national advertising campaign, The Broker DX Connect will provide a platform association.
Advantage, which reminds Canadians of for carriers, vendors, and brokers to The past year has been like no other.
the core values that we all share: Trust, implement select APIs that will reduce Initial challenges were overcome through
support, innovation, custom advice, friction, streamline business processes, hard work, collaboration, ingenuity,
and communication. A lot of credit
goes to brokers who stood firm in their
“IBAS and other IBAC member associations have been diligent in commitment to putting the customer
keeping their members informed through a number of channels, first. With the clarity of hindsight, we
must embrace the positive changes, and
including e-mail newsletters and bulletins, social media, virtual set a trajectory for continued success.
meetings and conventions, and other online forums. The
increased use of digital solutions has had the added benefit of Peter Braid is the CEO of IBAC. Prior to
assuming that role in 2017, he served as
increasing engagement among members in smaller or more a Member of Parliament for Kitchener-
remote communities.” Waterloo between 2008 and 2015.
16 SaskBroker Magazine | Winter 2021YOUR
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www.palcanada.comCEO’S NOTEBOOK
How the COVID-19 vaccine has
laid the blueprint for insurance
industry collaboration
By Derek Lothian, President & CEO, IBAS
O
n January 11, 2020, a saving the company the time-onerous through the pandemic. The scope of
team of Chinese scientists process of growing live virus in the lab. the issues was great, the unanswered
submitted a data set to the All they needed to put the idea into questions were many, and regardless of
website Virological.org — a practice was the sequence. if you were a small broker, large broker,
shared repository for prepublication Human trials soon began in March small mutual, or large national carrier,
data intended to assist with public and showed an impressive efficacy rate you could not navigate the challenges
health research around the world. This of 94.5 per cent. Then, on December 23, solely on your own. We were compelled
information, communicated by Dr. Moderna’s vaccine become the second out of necessity to link arms and figure
Edward Holmes at the University of COVID-19 vaccine authorized by Health things out on the fly. Yes, that led to some
Sydney, contained the genetic sequence Canada, leapfrogged only by a joint long days and considerable headaches.
for the novel coronavirus, which had effort between pharma-giant Pfizer and Yet, it also resulted in many of you (and
been isolated for the first time since Germany’s BioNTech. The big difference us at IBAS) making rapid advancements
being identified in the central city of was that Moderna’s vaccine could — in technology, scalability, business
Wuhan the month prior. last 30 days with simple refrigeration process, talent management, and
It was a scientific breakthrough of epic and six months at a temperature of everywhere in between — that would
proportion. Instead of being tucked away -20°C, whereas the Pfizer product have otherwise taken years, if they
as ‘intellectual property’ or closely guarded required freezer storage at a sub-arctic happened at all.
as a commercial trade secret, however, temperature of -70°C. I won’t say there has been a ‘silver
the data was released without hesitation Both ventures nevertheless prospered. lining’ to the pandemic, because I think
into the global commons. Only two days And so, too, did the corporations behind that discounts the incredible hardship and
later, on January 13, Massachusetts- them. In the period between vaccine loss that our friends and neighbours have
based pharmaceutical firm Moderna, Inc. development and regulatory approval, been forced to endure. And business, after
completed design of a COVID-19 vaccine Moderna’s stock skyrocketed sevenfold, all, is just one part of life. That said, there is
— known as mRNA-1273. BioNTech’s stock nearly tripled, and Pfizer no denying the insurance community has
— The vaccine was a natural marriage shares rebounded to a high of $41.12 per made remarkable progress over the past
between proprietary technological unit after dipping as low as $26.99 per 12 months.
innovation and a collective effort towards share in March. The trick will be sustaining that level
‘the greater good.’ The obvious questions now are: Why of meaningful partnership going forward.
At the time, messenger RNA (mRNA) am I telling you this? How is this story While our sector is full of healthy,
technology had not been licensed for relevant to P&C insurance in Canada? spirited competition, we are approaching
human use. But that was about to change I think it speaks volumes to the value a crossroads that will once again require
— with profound implications. of partnership — that collaboration, all players to push in the same direction.
Vaccines are traditionally derived especially in difficult times, can Take, for instance, technology.
from a dead or weakened virus, simultaneously be both good business Technology in itself is not a panacea — it
prompting the body to stave off the and altruistic for the betterment of our is a tactical tool that can be applied to
invader and build immunity. By contrast, industry (as well as the consumer). We all meet a specific business need. If your
Moderna’s mRNA technology used win when we work together. business strategy sucks, technology
synthetic genes that could be generated In my three-plus years at IBAS, at no isn’t going to fix it. But the customer is
and manufactured in a matter of weeks, point has that been more evident than evolving by leaps and bounds, and the
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vehicles in the garage at a time. Both, behalf of our members, including the
tool that can be applied to though, can be profitable. IBAS/SGI Auto Fund Strategic Accord, which
meet a specific business The point is there are a lot of is scheduled to expire in November.
need. If your business different ‘cars’ (customers and business Through this process, it will be vital to
applications) and the ‘technicians’ keep the customer first and foremost
strategy sucks, technology
(brokers and insurers) need to be able as we discuss and debate potential
isn’t going to fix it. But the to pull the right tool for the job. From an changes to technology, training, service
customer is evolving by leaps insurance technology perspective, that’s access and quality, consumer protection,
and bounds, and the tools where the importance of data standards remuneration, and communication.
and real-time broker-carrier connectivity The only tenable path forward is one
we are using to serve them truly shines through. Collaborative whereby we anticipate where our shared
are not keeping pace.” projects like the IBAC Data Exchange customers are going, so we can create
(or DX) Working Group, the Centre for a solution that is a win for drivers, a
Study of Insurance Operations (CSIO) win for taxpayers, a win for SGI, and a
tools we are using to serve them are not Commercial Lines Certification Program, win for issuers. There may be bumps
keeping pace. and the Going Paperless initiative led by along the way; but it will be that spirit
It’s like trying to repair a Tesla with our sister association at IBAO are critical of partnership that ultimately pulls us
only a ratchet and wrench set. No, not steps to build out that ‘toolbox’ in a way through.
every brokerage or insurer needs to that moves the entire industry — and not As the late, great Henry Ford once
adopt the same level of technology — or just one specific company — forward. said: “Coming together is a beginning.
tools — to satisfy its strategy. If most of Another enduring example is the Keeping together is progress. Working
your customers own farm trucks from relationship between the SGI Auto Fund together is success.” Let’s commit to
the 1990s, and you’re a lone technician and Saskatchewan insurance brokerages working together in 2021.
that gets to three or four jobs a day, that serve as motor licence issuers.
your toolbox needs to look a little bit As you know, IBAS is currently in the Derek has been the chief executive at
different than the Telsa Service Centre in process of reviewing and renewing the IBAS since 2017. He can be reached at
downtown Vancouver, with three or four underpinnings of this relationship on derek.lothian@ibas.ca or (306) 525-4075.
|
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24 Hour Emergency Response 1-866-494-6627IBAS launches the 2021
#BrokersCare Campaign for Mental Health
By Kyle Halvorson, Manager, Community Engagement, IBAS
T
he COVID-19 pandemic has
spawned a new mental health
crisis in Saskatchewan. Concerns
over personal and loved ones’
health, anxiety around employment and
finances, and loneliness stemming from
social isolation has had severe impacts on
youth, adults, and seniors alike.
That’s why, in 2021, insurance brokers
have committed to doing their part to
make a difference.
Announced just prior to Christmas,
the #BrokersCare Campaign for Mental
Health is a yearlong IBAS initiative,
presented in partnership with Wawanesa
Insurance, dedicated entirely to raising
funds and awareness to support
improved mental health outcomes. One
hundred per cent of all proceeds from
the campaign will go directly to fund
grassroots mental health projects in
communities throughout the province.
For IBAS President & CEO Derek
Lothian, the campaign is a natural fit for
both the association and its members.
“I don’t think anyone has been
immune to the mental health challenges
of the past year, myself included,” explains
Lothian. “It’s been a tough go; and the
organizations that are often relied upon
most for help have been hit hard, too.
This is our small way to be able to spark
some positivity and make a real impact
in the communities where our members
live and work.”
Now through to December, eligible
organizations — registered charities,
not-for-profits, community organizations,
and educational institutions (including
K-12 and post-secondary schools) — may
apply for one-time grants ranging from
$100 – $10,000. These funds must be
used to offset hard costs related to the
delivery of targeted mental wellness
initiatives.
22 SaskBroker Magazine | Winter 2021Projects will be evaluated based on
demonstrated need, impact, and the
capacity to execute.
Lothian says that the IBAS Emerging
Brokers Council, which is responsible
for organizing the campaign, has been
deliberate in not putting too many
parameters around what constitutes as
an ‘eligible’ project.
“The reality is that needs will vary “One of our major goals is to simply keep mental wellness
from organization to organization and at the forefront of everyone’s mind. If seeing our campaign
community to community,” he says. logo on a t-shirt or in an e-mail reminds someone to check
“Mental health challenges affect us all
in different ways, and so there is no in on a friend or colleague, we’ve made a difference. Never
template for a support that will work underestimate the impact those small gestures can make.”
for everyone. It could be a virtual guest
speaker, a program to reach out to
the elderly, or a care package to help
colleagues cope with stress. While we
unfortunately won’t have the resources Another way brokers and industry In the first 48 hours upon launching,
to fund everything, we thought it was partners can contribute is through the 200 t-shirts were sold, generating $4,000
important for people to be able to tell us purchase of campaign t-shirts. IBAS has in funding.
what they needed to move the needle.” partnered with homegrown apparel Lothian hopes the campaign will not
Grants are financed entirely by company Prairie Proud to produce and only connect great organizations and
campaign fundraising efforts, which sell specially designed t-shirts for $34.99 good ideas to funding capacity, but will
IBAS will be rolling out at various stages each. $20 from each unit sold goes spark valuable conversations as well.
throughout the year. directly to project funding. “One of our major goals is to simply
For example: On, February 3, IBAS These ultra-soft, unisex t-shirts come keep mental wellness at the forefront of
hosted a lunch-hour e-learning session in heathered black and are available in everyone’s mind,” says Lothian. “If seeing
with Saskatoon-based advocate Heidi sizes extra small through double extra our campaign logo on a t-shirt or in an
Fischer on the topic of mental health in large. Prices are subject to GST but e-mail reminds someone to check in
the workplace. Although this event was include standard shipping within Canada. on a friend or colleague, we’ve made
free to attend, optional donations were Product information and a sizing chart a difference. Never underestimate the
invited, and several cheques quickly can be found on the order page at impact those small gestures can make.”
flowed into the IBAS office. www.ibas.ca/tshirts.html. Visit www.ibas.ca to learn more.
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www.ibas.ca 23BLOWN AWAY
2021 starts with a
bluster of weather
damage
By Nicole Sinclair, Editor, SaskBroker Magazine
A
s the final calendar page turned on the headache
that was 2020, many of us found ourselves embracing
the first inklings of hope that had surfaced in quite
some time. COVID-19 vaccines were finally about to
arrive — and, hopefully soon with them, the possible end to
our recurring Groundhog Day of kitchen table workstations,
weekend staycations, and takeout-only restaurant meals. Some
of us even dared to daydream of years passed, when we would
have been booking sunny, tropical vacations to escape the
dreaded February on the Prairies.
But Mother Nature always has a way of putting us back in
our place. And, on January 13, she teamed up with her good
friend Jack Frost to remind us that 2021 and 2020 are indeed
very harsh cousins.
A record-breaking storm rolled in from the west, unloading
much of its destructive powers throughout Saskatchewan,
bringing whiteout conditions and leaving plenty of property
damage in its wake. Wind gusts reached 126 kilometers per
hour in Regina and up to 161 kilometres per hour in Moose
Jaw — smashing records and exceeding the benchmark for an
F1 tornado. Less than half a month in, and the first catastrophic
weather event of the year had already occurred.
When conditions cleared and roadways began to reopen,
residents — especially in the southern portion of the province
— ventured out to survey the damage. Unsurprisingly to
anyone who witnessed it, what they found was a mess:
Missing shingles, rooves peels back, fences toppled, and sheds
overturned.
According to Saskatchewan’s two largest property insurers,
the damage was also costly.
“We estimate the total damage will be similar to the late
fall storm in 2017, which resulted in $16 million in damage for
policyholders and between $40 – $50 million in total damage
across the province,” explained SGI CANADA’s Andrew Voroney
24 SaskBroker Magazine | Winter 2021A grain elevator in Pangman was hit hard by the January 13 windstorm.
Photo by Allan Spriggs Drone Photography & Video.
www.ibas.ca 25“We estimate the total damage will be similar to the late fall storm in 2017, which resulted in $16
million in damage for policyholders and between $40 – $50 million in total damage across the
province. While it is still early, we currently have more than 2,000 property claims on the go. A typical
summer month would create 2,500 – 3,000 claims, and an average January might see 700 or 800.”
in a late January interview. Reports of major damage came from as far north as Prince Albert
“While it is still early, we and as far south as communities along the U.S. border.
currently have more than 2,000 As insurance professionals, when most of us see the
property claims on the go. A damage, our thoughts immediately go to claims and the
typical summer month would effect an event such as this can have on both our customers
create 2,500 – 3,000 claims, and and carriers. Windstorms of this severity are unusual for the
an average January might see winter months. Typically, spikes in major weather events —
700 or 800.” often wind and hail — occur in the summer, when insurers
In the entirety of 2019, SGI pull out all the stops to be prepared, from staffing up
Andrew Voroney, Regional
CANADA experienced losses of adjusters to establishing special response teams. So, one
Vice President, Saskatchewan,
SGI CANADA. only $27 million stemming from can imagine the strain when an event occurs so out of the
severe weather. ordinary. Teamwork and coordination become all that more
Kevin Bailey, vice president of the central region for important.
Wawanesa Insurance, added that it wasn’t only the impact of “Luckily, our adjusters at SGI CANADA are resourceful and
the storm that was notable — it was the timing as well. committed, and when their power went out, many resorted
“In my 34 years working in insurance, this is the first time to servicing customers through their cell phones and even
I have seen a weather event like this in January,” he said. “The charging devices in their vehicle so they could keep going
last large wind and hail event was in 2018. A storm like this throughout the day,” said Voroney. “They kept in constant
at this time of year does create a challenge as we prepare our contact with each other to help redirect efforts as we became
financials and could very well impact loss ratios for brokerages.” aware of which communities were most impacted and what
The Insurance Bureau of Canada has pegged the damage of type of damage was most
the January storm at $134 million across the three westernmost prevalent.”
provinces. At Wawanesa, Bailey shared
Saskatchewan, of course, is no stranger however to extreme a similar sentiment — although
weather. the distinct challenges
The infamous Regina Cyclone of June 30, 1912, killed 28 operating as a national insurer
people and resulted in $1.2 million in property damage (roughly in a COVID-19 world brought
$32.2 million by today’s standards — which is a feat in itself with them additional nuances.
considering, at the time, Regina’s population hovered around a “Wawanesa has a national
Kevin Bailey, Vice President,
modest 32,000 people). It took the city two years to repair the CAT team that provides
Central Region, Wawanesa
wreck and 10 years to pay off its accumulated storm debt. resources and expertise, and Insurance.
Then there was the 10-day blizzard of 1947, when snow shut can be quickly mobilized when
down highways and rail lines from Calgary to Winnipeg — some such events happen,” noted Bailey. “Although the response
until the spring. In places, only the upper-most tips of power looked slightly different than in years passed. With COVID
poles stuck out from underneath the massive drifts. restrictions, we don’t have employees travelling across
And, more recently, who could forget the flash floods of provincial borders. So, the team focused on internal and
Spring 2011, the La Ronge wildfires of 2015, or the powerful external communications, and the use of virtual tools to
Saskatoon blizzard of 2017? assist. Furthermore, a national claims service team was there
But what makes the ‘January bluster of 2021’ particularly to offer support over the phone, with the unaffected east
unique is its combination of magnitude, timing, and reach. coast coming in to lend a hand and being particularly helpful.”
“One way brokers can support us during an influx is to provide all the information they learn
on the call with their clients. Insight such as a few lost shingles versus missing an entire roof
helps us triage the claims and make sure we are placing the properties with the most severe
damage into a ‘high priority’ category, with the most experienced adjusters making the call.”
26 SaskBroker Magazine | Winter 2021TSW Management - 1/4 pg vertical cmyk ad 3.375 x 4.625” Feb10/17
The skating rink in Avonlea also suffered significant shingle loss to its roof. Photo by Allan Spriggs Drone Photography & Video.
The high volume of claims extended across both personal
and commercial property. In addition to residential building
damage, auto claims spiked due to dislodged branches and
building materials striking parked vehicles — not to mention an
uptick in collision claims from treacherous road conditions. Grain
bins and farm equipment were not spared, either.
All-in-all, 100,000 SaskPower customers were left without
power, adding an additional level of complexity for brokers and
carriers. Some service remained off for three full days.
This event served as a reminder that changes to weather
are having a profound impact on the insurance industry. The
Insurance Bureau of Canada reports that, in 2020, severe weather
Complex
cost insurers across the country $42.4 billion in losses. The Commercial Risk
and Brokers’ E&O
Calgary hailstorm in June totalled $1.3 billion in damage alone.
What to do about these trends from a policy perspective is
one issue. An equally important conversation, though, is how all
stakeholders can work together when a loss occurs to respond
SPECIALISTS
swiftly and with the highest levels of care and service.
“One way brokers can support us during an influx is to
provide all the information they learn on the call with their
clients,” suggested Voroney. “Insight such as a few lost shingles TSW
versus missing an entire roof helps us triage the claims and make
sure we are placing the propertiesComplex
with theCommercial Risk
most severe damage
MANAGEMENT SERVICES INC.
mostBrokers’
into a ‘high priority’ category, with theand experienced E&O Dave Weinberg CIP
adjusters making the call.” SPECIALISTS Toll-free: 1-866-904-8146 Western Regional Manager
Fax: 604-678-6882 Direct: 604-678-5405
Albeit great advice, let’s hope it is guidance we won’t www.tsw-management.ca dweinberg@tsw-management.ca
have to put into practice too many more times through the
remainder of 2021.
www.ibas.ca 27INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Ready for a
rebound?
28 SaskBroker Magazine | Winter 2021Brought to you by:
S
upply chain issues, travel impacted most Saskatchewan small of their business even if this entails
restrictions, COVID-19 businesses. incremental shifts in adoption and
immunization progress, and a With the majority of women-owned adaptation of technology.
myriad of other factors will all businesses in Saskatchewan being ‘micro The rollout of the vaccine and
have unique impact on the prosperity enterprises’ with approximately 80 per restoration of safety and wellbeing will
of individual sectors of Saskatchewan’s cent having fewer than 10 employees, be pivotal in small businesses remaining
economy over the next year. But what are the pandemic most certainly amplified viable and sustainable; however, it will
the experts forecasting? We reached out the challenges and barriers many become critical that this is accompanied
to five of the best and brightest to ask women-owned businesses encounter. by a fervor to continue to support local
their predictions and insights for 2021. Moving forward, we will see businesses, and shop local.
including women-owned businesses, In Canada, our values and principles
Prabha Mitchell reassess, pivot, and innovate through are paramount during crisis, evoking
these challenging times. Unfortunately, gratitude. As always, in Saskatchewan,
President & CEO
we may also see small businesses cease our values remain focused on people and
Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan
operations. To help boost success, a community, which I am confident will
significant proportion of women-owned continue to anchor economic recovery
Small business is ‘big business’ in
businesses will digitize many aspects and support for small businesses.
Saskatchewan. And, in 2020, COVID-19
www.ibas.ca 29Jim Bence
President & CEO
Hospitality Saskatchewan
As many are already aware, the properties are experiencing particularly For a great number of our members,
tourism world was the first to be hit, acute shortages in revenues. this year’s insurance challenges were
continues to be the hardest hit, and will While limited leisure travel still unexpected and took the entire industry
certainly take the longest to recover. As occurs, the corporate market has almost by relative surprise. Having engaged
the COVID-19 recovery runway stretches completely evaporated and, along IBAS in the early days of the pandemic,
out and is getting longer than early with it, the meetings, conferences, and we have appreciated the efforts of Derek
estimates, operators are coming to grips trade shows that make up much of a and his team as they have sought and
with the stark reality of the possibility of hotel’s revenue during the year. And, as delivered both solutions and partners
permanent closure of their businesses. we approach the much-needed busy to assist us during this critical time. In
The convergence of three storms — summer season, the fear of the industry collaboration with the Insurance Bureau
unrelenting fixed costs, looming layoff losing June, July, and August as a of Canada, IBAS has worked with industry
payouts, and significant challenges potential ‘return to normal’ is becoming and has found remedies for those hardest
finding insurance and/or spiking prevalent. Many owners have used their hit in our provincial market. The road
insurance premiums — have created reserves and are wondering how to ahead remains extremely uncertain,
tremendous uncertainty and anxiety manage the balance of 2021. Liquidity but it will be because of the efforts and
within the hospitality industry. Although is the key to survival in this current collaboration with groups like IBAS that
almost every hotel and motel operator environment and many do not have we will be able to weather this storm and
has experienced crippling reductions access to the cash needed to continue hopefully emerge relatively intact by the
in occupancies, our full-service urban operations. end of 2021.
“For a great many of our members, this year’s insurance challenges were unexpected and took the
entire industry by relative surprise. Having engaged IBAS in the early days of the pandemic, we have
appreciated the efforts of Derek and his team as they have sought and delivered both solutions and
partners to assist us during this critical time.”
30 SaskBroker Magazine | Winter 2021You can also read
