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A team that puts you first

We are a team of specialists who have dedicated our careers to the industries we serve. We stepped out on our own to gain autonomy from traditional brokerage models. At EQUA, we put the success of our clients first - we explain risks and steps you can take to reduce costs, we customize offerings, and we stay with you every step of the way. This isn’t big insurance, this is just us. 


We invest in technology to support our mobile workforce and our clients. With offices across Canada and deep international relationships, we’re proud to provide you with the best talent and resources available across the globe.
 

Our Values:

Respect

We are dedicated to ensuring that our business is performed with dignity, that we are respectful, and that we always work to protect the trust that our community has invested in us.

Results

We believe in outcomes over optics. We deliver results and we work hard to prove our worth every day.

Transparency

Our clients have the right to know how our business works. We take the time to explain process and risks, and the way we are compensated is available for all clients to view.

Courage

Taking advantage of great opportunities isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. We have the courage to make changes and we are drawn to those who are courageous.

Community

We’re not in this alone, and neither are you. We value our community and are dedicated to bringing people together to share resources and ideas.

Independence

We are proud of our autonomy and we are thrilled to have the freedom to create customized solutions.


Stronger together


We know that diversity creates strength. We strive to build a culture of inclusivity in which different perspectives are celebrated.    

Our Leadership Team

Dave
Richards

Dave Richards

Toronto, Calgary, Regina and more!

Role in EQUA: CEO, Leader, Cheerleader

Can you tell us about your background?
Formerly the CEO of Jardine Lloyd Thompson Canada Inc., and an Executive Vice President and Leader at Aon Canada, I’ve dedicated my career to designing and implementing programs for risk management accounts, with a focus on the development of specialty programs. I hold my Canadian Risk Management and Canadian Insurance Professional Designations and am a former member of the University of Calgary Haskayne School of Business’ Risk and Insurance Board.

When did you first meet Andy?
September 2016, over a pint of Guinness

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?
Freedom to create for your client!

Andy
Bates

Andy Bates

Toronto, Ontario

Role in EQUA: COO

Can you tell us about your background? 
Formerly the COO of Jardine Lloyd Thompson Canada Inc. and a Senior Vice President with Marsh Canada Ltd., I’ve been part of the insurance industry for 35 years. My career focus has been on Construction and Machinery Risks in the Mining and Power sectors – I’m proud to have international underwriting and broker experience. I now lead EQUA’s strategic development and ability to deliver enhanced value for our clients by creating more effective interactions with the commercial insurance marketplace. 

When did you first meet Dave?
September 2016 over a pint of Guinness (ok more than one pint)

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?
The freedom to build a truly client-focused insurance brokerage with a spirit of adventure at its heart. It's all about our clients and the journey we take together.

Raj

Raj Aujla

Calgary, Alberta

Role in EQUA: Designer of preservation programs to shield executives’ personal assets as they journey through a minefield of potential litigation in the modern business environment.

Can you tell us about your background?
I bring over 21 years of insurance experience, having worked on both the underwriting and brokerage sides of the business for multinational insurers and brokerage firms. I led professional and executive risk management at a major Canadian insurance brokerage for nearly a decade – I have represented clients across all industry segments and sizes, ranging from small community non-profit associations to large multinational corporations with global operations. My areas of expertise include several lines of insurance: Directors’ & Officers’ Liability, Cyber, Employment Practices Liability, Kidnap and Ransom, Fiduciary (pension) Liability, Crime (Fidelity), Professional Errors & Omissions, and Representations and Warranty.

When did you first meet Dave and Andy?
My career crossed paths with David Richards in 1999, in Vancouver.  I was a recent university graduate embarking on what was soon to become a long career, and David was representing a multi-national brokerage firm.  Andrew Bates and I first met in 2016, we were both with multi-national brokerage firms.

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?
Less bureaucracy, less complexity, personal, tailored and client-focused service. EQUA focuses on niche markets where our experts practice their craft and build on their long-term relationships.

Sandy

Sandy Millar

Vancouver, British Columbia

Managing Partner, Sports & Recreation Leader 

Role at EQUA: Managing Partner, Sports & Recreation Leader

Can you tell us about your background?
Prior to my start in the insurance industry, I spent 20 years working in the Canadian ski business. During this time, I garnered significant experience using tools, policies, and processes to refine safety and risk management practices. Before joining EQUA, I spent a decade working at a private, multinational, brokerage as a Client Executive and Senior Vice-President, providing insurance and risk management solutions to major sporting organizations and venues. I’m thrilled to combine my love of sport and skiing and share my insurance expertise with clients to let them focus on what they do best, running their organizations.

When did you meet Dave and Andy?
Dave and I worked at the same brokerage, but we first met when we were paired in a pub-trivia contest at a management retreat, we won! Andy and I also worked together at another brokerage. I've always appreciated Andy’s resourcefulness and sincerity.    

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
I was eager to join a company that is genuinely focused on the client experience. Having worked with many of our specialists in the past, I knew that we would be able to design, implement, and deliver tailored risk management solutions that are client driven.

Mary-Ann

Mary-Ann Hamel

Ottawa, Ontario

Managing Partner, Ottawa Office Head 

Can you tell us about your background?
I have 35 years of experience (I started at age 4) in the risk management/insurance industry. Jokes aside, my experience includes working as a former Ottawa and Edmonton Office Head, SVP, and National Affinity Manager for global insurance brokerages. Working with dozens of National Organizations, Governments, Charities, Crown Corporations, as well as private companies, from start-ups to multinational corporations, has given me tremendous experience.

When did you meet Dave and Andy?
I met Dave over 20 years ago and worked with him for many years. We solved many world problems over a few cocktails. I met Andy, through Dave, later in my career.

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
The industry is missing a specialty brokerage that is client focused. After learning about EQUA and discussing with Dave, it became clear that EQUA was where I needed to be. EQUA’s client-first approach, business plan, relationships, less internal bureaucracy, energy of the EQUA team, quality of the individuals, and trust in their leadership, appealed to me. Joining EQUA was the best professional decision I’ve ever made.

Melody

Melody Benoit

Calgary, Alberta

Role in EQUA: Technical Services and Analytics Leader

When did you first meet Andy and Dave? 
David and I met in 1988 and we have worked at the same organizations for the majority of the time since then. Andy and I met in 2016 when he started working with us.
 

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure? 
This is an organization truly focused on delivering solutions that align with clients’ objectives and where quality service is paramount. At EQUA, our client service specialists are a genuine team that come together to get results.

Dan

Dan Fitzpatrick

Toronto, Ontario

Role in EQUA: National Technical Practice Leader - provider of technical knowledge to optimize financial coverage solutions to mitigate key risks.

Can you tell us about your background? 
I have more than 35 years’ experience in risk control and insurance, including work with a huge volume of multinational companies. Before joining EQUA Specialty, I managed an Energy portfolio at a multinational insurance company where I applied my technical underwriting acumen. I am a Professional Engineer and a Chemical Engineering graduate from McGill University. I’m excited to bring my knowledge base and experience to EQUA, to create customized solutions that truly consider unique business needs and risks.

When did you first meet Andy and Dave? 

I met Dave in Calgary in 2003 or 2004. I met Andy in Toronto in 2015. In both cases, it was to discuss shared opportunities. 

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?

I'm thrilled to be part of a group that provides quality service based on knowledge and extensive experience. 

Scott

Scott Hunter

Ottawa, Ontario

Regional Vice President, Employee Benefits Leader 

Can you tell us about your background?
I have over 40 years of experience in the insurance industry, specifically in the Employee Benefits practice working with both private and public corporations of all sizes. I’m experienced in plan design and management for both traditional and flexible benefits plans, including Registered Pension Plans (RPP), RRSP, DPSP, and TFSA’s. I also have extensive knowledge of alternative funding arrangements from fully insured, retention (refund) accounting, to self-insured ASO programs. 

When did you first meet Dave and Andy?
I first met Dave in 2014 when he led the private, multinational brokerage that I worked for. I later met Andy when he joined as well. At the time, I was a Senior Vice President & National Sales Leader, Employee Benefits.

Why be part of the EQUA adventure? 
I want to play a part in EQUA’s refreshing client focused culture. The benefits advisory industry has experienced countless mergers and acquisition leaving clients few choices outside of large publicly owned corporations that offer boilerplate solutions that focus on their profit rather than client problems. The EQUA value proposition is focused on developing personal relationships with our clients while offering independent, individualized solutions that are customized to meet their needs.  

Bjorn

Bjorn Ostlund

Calgary, Alberta

Role in EQUA: Energy & Power Leader

Can you tell us about your background?
I’m proud to have over 30 years’ experience in the Mining, Oil & Gas, Power, and Utility sectors. As an Account Executive for the past 20 years, my focus has been on developing cost effective and sustainable risk management programs together with clients of different sizes and exposures in Canada and internationally.  My international experience includes work in New York, Stockholm, and London. I’m excited to offer my unique global perspective and deep industry knowledge to our clients at EQUA.

When did you first meet Dave and Andy?

I met Dave for the first time at an industry reception in 2006. I met Andy in a casual office setting in 2013. Little did I know that our lives would become so intertwined.

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?

I've been invited to join start-ups in the past, but was hesitant. With EQUA, I could not pass up the opportunity to join a team that is motivated to push the limits and establish a powerhouse.

Tamsin

Tamsin Plumptre

Toronto, Ontario

Role in EQUA: Credit, Political & Security Risks Leader

Can you tell us about your background?
For the past 14 years, I have negotiated and adapted Structured Credit and Political Risks policies for a diverse range of multi-national corporations, financial institutions, commodity traders and public agencies, with a heavy focus on developing capital relief-driven solutions for banks. Based in London for most of my career, I have an extensive international network and speak Spanish, French and Portuguese. I hold an MSc in International Relations from the University of Bristol and a BA (Hons) degree from the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

When did you first meet Dave and Andy?
Dave in London, circa 2017, in a tiny meeting room by the cafeteria. Andy in Toronto, a year or so later.

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?
My values align with EQUA's culture, which encourages innovation and puts clients' interests at the heart of all decision making.

Sara

Sara Smolej

Toronto, Ontario

Role in EQUA: HR Leader and professional organizer of change. "You can’t spell hero without HR."

When did you first meet Dave and Andy?

In 2018, when we worked together at another brokerage.

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?

My values are aligned to EQUA’s values - I'm thrilled to be bringing bold visions to life while architecting a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and success.

Coby

Coby Oslanski

Wainwright, Alberta

Role in EQUA: Client Executive, AKA, Wonder Woman

When did you first meet Dave and Andy?

I met Andy and Dave over video chat on my first day…let’s just say I’m glad I didn’t have the just-rolled-out-of-bed look!

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?

Because being BOLD is the best way to live your life and what makes it even better is working for a company that stands for the same.

Yvonne

Yvonne Andersen

I provide unrivaled customer service. I believe that you are never fully dressed without a smile and I pride myself in making meaningful relationships with my clients while helping them protect what matters most.

Can you tell us about your background?
I have been working in the insurance industry for a decade. I have experince with personal lines that include home, auto, recreational, farm and small to mid-size commercial insurance. 

When did you first meet Dave and Andy? 
I met them both over video this past July. 

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?
I love the company culture. We work together as a team to achieve goals. Everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed in what we specialize in. I'm thrilled to be on board and excited for what's to come. 

Natasha

Natasha Birnie

Regina, Saskatchewan

Role in EQUA: I deliver business solutions that can mitigate risk while providing excellent customer service. I don’t categorize clients based on dollar signs, I just call each of them by their first name.  

Can you tell us about your background?
I’ve worked in the insurance industry for 8 years. Prior to joining EQUA, I was a Client Executive at a local brokerage. I worked on the programs team, serving First Nations, condominiums and auto dealers. My passion has always been in the construction & manufacturing industry, as I have gained significant experience handling contentious claims in this field. I’ve also served as Director of Professional Development. I implemented training procedures, taught licensing courses (CAIB 1-4), and developed incoming staff. I’m thrilled to be able to carry over my experience as a Client Executive at EQUA.

When did you first meet Andy and Dave?
In May, my LinkedIn feed was blowing up with "EQUA" and I wanted to know what all the fuss was about. I left Andy and Dave a message and they called me back the very next day. The rest is history. 

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?
EQUA’s philosophy is centered around our team members knowing that a business is only as strong as the sum of its parts. I have spent almost a decade in the insurance industry and when you are excited to come to work every day, you know you have a place you can call home.

Kale

Kale Dolinski

Regina, Saskatchewan

Role in EQUA: I provide a first class client experience while ensuring that business needs are met, and I always stick to the golden rule - treat everyone as you wish to be treated.

Can you tell us about your background? 
I’ve worked in the insurance industry for the past 5 years. I started my career as a commercial motor licenser and transitioned to serving large commercial auto fleets, including various long haul trucking operations. Prior to joining EQUA, I was VP of Commercial Insurance at a local brokerage and worked on the programs team, which included First Nations, condominiums, and auto dealers. My passion for building strong relationships with clients led me to EQUA, I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue supporting them as a Client Executive at EQUA. 

When did you first meet Andy and Dave?
I looked Andy and Dave up on LinkedIn and, before I knew it, I was having an hour-long conversation with both of them over the phone. 

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
EQUA has a team philosophy. Having a sports backgroud, I am drawn to a compnay that shares values that are similar to my own. EQUA provides me with the opportunity to work with like-minded people who want the company to grow and succeed. 
 

Ali

Ali Shaw

Operations, Compliance, and Portfolio Development Leader 

Can you tell us about your background?
I have worked in the insurance industry for the past decade, the majority of that time spent at a brokerage. The bulk of my experience consists of managing and maintaining relationships with insurers, making certain that the right markets are in place to support our brokers and clients.

When did you first meet Dave and Andy?
I first met Andy in 2012 at a previous brokerage. Soon after we met, I joined his team. I was introduced to Dave through Andy as part of my new role.

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
From experience, I knew working with Andy would include a supportive and bold company culture. EQUA has a collaborative approach and a genuine client-first mindset that convinced me this was where I wanted to advance my career

Chuck

Chuck Bishop

Toronto, Ontario

Associate Client Executive 

Can you tell us about your background?
With more than a decade of experience in the insurance industry, I’ve delivered custom coverage and incredible customer service to a huge range of clients. From small business accounts to major mining, power, life science, and health care companies. I’m driven by a client-first approach and proud in ensuring that EQUA’s clients have the coverage they need and the exceptional service they that they deserve.

When did you first meet Dave and Andy? 
Dave and I met in 2014, followed by Andy in 2016, while working at another brokerage prior to them founding EQUA. From day one, I appreciated their authenticity and the focus they have for the success of their clients. 

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
Having worked with a number of EQUA employees previously, I knew that I was joining a great team. With colleagues genuinely driven by a client-first approach and deep industry knowledge, the decision to come onboard was simple. I look forward to building long lasting relationships with our clients and with the team at EQUA. 

Ivy

Ivy Chan

Calgary, Alberta

Client Service Representative 

Can you tell us about your background?
Before joining EQUA, I worked at a private, multinational brokerage for 14 years. During my tenure, I managed all issues related to certificates of insurance and motor vehicle liability cards. With over a decade of experience as a client service representative, I have a comprehensive understanding of how important a client-first approach is.

When did you first meet Dave and Andy?
Previously, I worked with both Dave and Andy at the same private, multinational brokerage. I met them in 2013 and 2016 respectively.

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
The opportunity to work with a team of experience, innovative, and likeminded professionals who are genuinely on the same mission of providing quality, client-focused service.

Partners

FIRST Insurance Funding of Canada

We work the FIRST Insurance Funding of Canada team because they share our love of innovation and allow us to offer creative payment solutions to meet our clients’ needs.

KS Financial Solutions Ltd.

KS Financial Solutions Ltd. is dedicated to honesty and integrity - Ken is a trusted partner for our clients when making decisions to help them reach their personal financial goals.  

Suncorp Valuations

Suncorp Valuations knows value. Our strategic partnership powers our ability to provide detailed asset assessments and appraisals to determine insurable value, creating independent solutions that our clients can confidently rely upon.

Westcoast Actuaries Inc.

We love working with the Westcoast Actuaries Inc. team because they treat their clients like family and dedicate their actuarial expertise to elevating benefits programs and increasing returns. 

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