Major Canadian insurer shakes up structure

“This change will build on Wawanesa’s 126 years of success and provide the best service to our broker partners and customers,” said Wawanesa president and CEO Jeff Goy.

“This regional focus will further align our operations to different geographic opportunities while allowing us to provide more support for unique regional needs.”

The changes see Anna McCrindell, Wawanesa VP, commercial insurance since 2020, take on the role of SVP & chief operating officer, East.

Graham Haigh, most recently Wawanesa chief marketing officer and a former VP of broker distribution, has been named SVP & chief operating officer, West.

In addition to the property and casualty (P&C) changes, Joceleyn Prefontaine, latterly Wawanesa life operations VP, has been appointed as SVP & chief operating officer, life operations.

The new structure is aimed at helping brokers “meet a broader suite of customer life insurance needs”, Wawanesa said in the press release.

“We’re confident about Wawanesa’s future as a leading mutual insurer in Canada with a strong, growing business across the country,” Goy said.

Founded in 1896, Winnipeg headquartered Wawanesa is one of Canada’s largest mutual insurers, with over $4 billion in annual revenue and assets of $12 billion.

The mutual serves more than two million policyholders across Canada and the United States.