BFL Canada names new regional leaders

BFL Canada has appointed Frederik Pelaez as the new regional vice president of the Eastern Region, and Patrick Vena as managing partner for the Montreal office.

Pelaez has been with BFL Canada since 2011. A release mentioned that he contributed to expanding the company’s presence in Quebec by leading the Greater Montreal area (which includes the Laval and Brossard offices) as managing partner. He has also been instrumental in building out the firm’s risk advisory practice. Prior to BFL Canada, he worked at two international brokerage firms and was also involved with several global practice groups.

According to BFL Canada, Pelaez’s strategic mind, recruitment and business development abilities will serve him well as he leads the company’s Eastern Region operations.

Vena, meanwhile, will succeed Pelaez as the new managing partner of BFL Canada’s Montreal office. He also first joined the company in 2011 and is currently managing partner leading the commercial unit for Montreal. BFL Canada said that Vena was instrumental in building the commercial unit, which encompasses several industry specializations such as forestry, mining, energy and heavy industry. Prior to joining BFL Canada, he worked at an international insurance brokerage firm on large and complex placements, primarily on risk management accounts. He also helped develop expertise in large-scale construction projects by playing a key role in the placing of major Quebec-based mining and energy projects.

“Our commitment to promoting talent within our business demonstrates BFL’s internal succession management process,” said BFL Canada president and COO Lisa Giannone. “However, creating opportunities for professional and career growth is more important.”

Giannone added that she is confident that both Pelaez and Vena will work closely to ensure the success of the Eastern Region.

Giannone herself was named president and COO last November, with her appointment taking effect earlier this month. She has more than 30 years of experience in the insurance brokerage industry and has been with BFL Canada for 13 years.