New CEO promises to maintain carrier’s upward momentum

Founded in 1884, Portage Mutual Insurance is an insurance broker with a national presence. Offering a wide range of insurance solutions for homeowners, condo owners and tenants, home business owners, agribusiness owners, contractors, real professionals, and more, the 278-strong company believes its partnership with professional insurance brokers leads to better service and value for its customers.

Portage Mutual Insurance believes so much in the strength of brokers, that it has partnered with over 800 professional brokerage offices across Canada. Thanks to these brokers, the company had written $263 million in premiums and had assets of $593 million as of December 31, 2021.

Because of these achievements – and because it was a top pick among brokers who voted for the best carriers they have worked for – Insurance Business Canada has named Portage Mutual Insurance a 5-Star Carrier for 2022. It found that Portage Mutual scored highly in three aspects, as voted by brokers: claims processing, quick quotes, and competitive rates.

But in June 2022, Portage Mutual Insurance announced that it is entering its next stage of growth with the retirement of CEO John Mitchell. It was Mitchell’s leadership and emphasis on service that put the company on its current path to success.

“John’s commitment to the success of our employees and a focus on the service provided to our policyholders and brokers have been the hallmarks of his career,” said Portage Mutual Insurance board chair Brent Gilbert.

But this is not the end for Portage Mutual, as current chief operating officer Wayne Wyborn was named successor to Mitchell. Already, Wyborn has promised to continue the company’s positive trajectory.

“I am thrilled to lead a great team of dedicated professionals as we embark on a new five-year plan,” said Wyborn. “Our focus on building an agile and innovative culture will position the company for even greater success moving forward. Our industry has many challenges, but I am confident that we have the people, skills, and dedication necessary to serve and protect our policyholders now and into the future.”