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A team that puts you first

We are a team of experts 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 continually 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 around 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 Advisory Council.

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.

Gina

Gina Bennett

Vancouver, BC - With a national reach!

Role in EQUA: Managing Partner, Visionary, Motivator 

Can you tell us about your background?
I’ve worked in the insurance industry for over 30 years, having led regions, sectors, and teams, for brokerage, underwriting, and MGA operations. Having touched all areas of Property & Casualty, I have extensive experience in portfolio management, product, and program development. Prior to joining EQUA, my specialty focus was Transportation, and most recently, Sports & Recreation. Well known for working with a strategic focus and creating unique solutions for clients – I have built meaningful relationships while doing so, from brokers, carriers to adjusters, solicitors, and risk management vendors across the country.  

When did you meet Dave and Andy?
I have known of Dave and Andy for decades, however, I met them in person in the fall of 2020 over a glass (or two…) of wine, that led to a fabulous Italian meal. A framework of the master plan was drafted that night!

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
Dave and Andy’s entrepreneurial spirit is contagious! Their vision for EQUA aligns with my personal aspirations and goals: to build a client-centric brokerage (in my case, a division) from the ground up. The opportunity to work with EQUA’s group of likeminded industry leaders is priceless - each of us bring a specialty and purpose that holds true to our name: EQUA Specialty Risk Partners Corporation. 

Sandy

Sandy Millar

Vancouver, British Columbia

Role in EQUA: Managing Partner, Sport & 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.

Contact Sandy today! sandy.millar@equaspecialty.com

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. 

Jackie

Jackie McAllister

Vancouver, BC

Role in EQUA: Connector, systems strategizer, and efficiency machine

Can you tell us about your background?
I specialize in leveraging technology to find better ways of working. I’ve been in the insurance industry over 20 years, including roles in Finance, Operations, and IT.

I dedicated my early career to supporting the finance department of a multi-national insurance brokerage. This provided me with a foundational understanding of the industry, data analytics, and backend operations. Prior to joining EQUA, my focus was on systems and technology. This allowed me to become deeply familiar with the tools used within this industry while placing me at the forefront of newly-developing technology. It's all about freeing up our brokers and support teams so they can focus on clients. 

I love knowing that the work I'm doing facilitates the incredibly high level of service and care that EQUA's clients and partners receive from our team. 

When did you meet Dave and Andy?
I have known both Dave and Andy for years, having worked with them both at Jardine Lloyd Thompson Canada - I jumped at the opportunity to work with them again.

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
Having already known many of our team members, I was excited to join a company that is both familiar and new at the same time. Being a part of EQUA's team while the company is still young is exciting and full of possibilities. In terms of personal and professional developmental goals, there’s a synergy with EQUA that allows me the freedom to continue learning and growing while doing what I love.

Loretta

Loretta Eldridge

Toronto, Ontario

Role in EQUA: Storyteller, supporter, and sales-driver

Can you tell us about your background?
Before joining EQUA, I enjoyed a decade-long career in book publishing, marketing emerging authors and international bestsellers to Canadian consumers. I then built and led the marketing team at a successful cannabis technology company, where I was named one of Canada's Top 50 Cannabis Heroes by High! Canada Magazine. I am the current Chair of the Cannabis Council of Canada's Advocacy Committee and am working with our team to create insurance without stigma for cannabis businesses. 

I hold certificates in Strategic Marketing from Ryerson University and in Creative Book Publishing from Humber College, am a graduate of the Toronto Region Board of Trade's Trade Accelerator Program, and hold a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree from Trent University. I’m thrilled to be telling the EQUA story. I love working with our incredibly knowledgeable and hard-working leaders and it’s exciting to help support Canadian businesses and the Canadian economy.

When did you first meet Andy and Dave?
I met Andy in May of 2020, when he kindly helped me set up my phone and laptop on my first day at EQUA. I met Dave on a call that afternoon. They've not had a break from me since! 

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?
The team at EQUA means what they say. They truly believe in client service, relationships, and providing the solutions that Canadian businesses need. Being honest in all that I do is important to me. As a marketer, I couldn't ask for a better team to work with, nor a better story to tell. I'm thrilled to be part of this adventure! 
 

Helmut

Helmut Streblow

Calgary, Alberta

Role in EQUA: Director of Claims

Can you tell us about your background? 
My broad skillset was developed over the span of 25+ years working for a multinational insurance company early in my career, followed by working in the energy sector in the Risk Management/Insurance group for one of Canada’s largest integrated oil and gas companies. I have extensive claims and risk management experience with strong insurance market knowledge within the International and North American space.

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?
It was a great opportunity to join EQUA as they have a specialized and established team with a vision that I support and want to be part of, particularly with my risk management and claims experience that will service all of EQUA’s clients.

Kenny

Kenny Shimokura

Vancouver, BC

The magician - pulling rabbits out of hats and making the impossible, possible

Can you tell us about your background?

I started my insurance career by enrolling in the first Insurance and Risk Management program offered at BCIT in Vancouver. After this, I worked at a national insurance company as an underwriter for several years on the Canadian Property team. I then switched over to an international brokerage and worked on placements for Vancouver and Surrey offices. Prior to joining EQUA, my most recent role was in placement at a brokerage in Vancouver.

When did you first meet Andy and Dave?

I met Andy and Dave working together at a prior brokerage around 2016.

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?

My key reasons for wanting to join EQUA was the encouraging entrepreneurial spirit and the collaborative teamwork. An agile firm where decisions can be made quickly and executed without red tape means we can get the job done.

Jody

Jody Elliott

Sudbury, Ontario

Role in EQUA: The lighthouse – guiding clients through the fog and storms to their safe harbour

Can you tell us about your background?
I started in insurance as a receptionist nearly 40 years ago—it began as a summer job and turned into a life-long career. Early in my career, I spent time as an assistant to a commercial lines manager and then became a commercial lines account manager. I also completed my CAIB designation during this time.
 
In 2001, I shifted my focus to adventure tourism insurance, providing solutions and risk management services to operators in the ski, rafting, summer resorts, and motel industries. I’ve also worked on specialty programs for adventure tourism, professional liability, management liability, and general sectors of commercial insurance.
 
In 2006, I obtained my CRM designation from the University of Toronto, and then I expanded my expertise by finishing my CIP designation in 2013. In my approach to account management, I am client-focused, adaptable, and dedicated to finding the best solutions possible.


Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
I am excited to join EQUA because their values and goals are in line with mine. The organization & team are dynamic, client-focused, and seek tailored solutions for individual clients while helping them navigate the complications and challenges of insurance.

Matt

Matt Jardine

Toronto & Barrie, Ontario

Role in EQUA: The Deep Diver - addicted to detail, dedicated to delivery

Can you tell us about your background?
Insurance has been my home industry since 2007. I cut my teeth selling home, auto, and life policies and eventually that progressed to small business insurance. I have been fortunate to work only with independent insurance brokerages with incredibly knowledgeable teams. The mentorship and education I received within these brokerages allowed me to focus on more complex risks and specialized accounts in various sectors, inclding Property, Hospitality, Fintech, Transportation, Manufacturing, Construction, Management Liability, and Education. I value the relationships that I have formed with insurers and brokers - these relationships empower me to do what my clients entrust me to do: find appropriate coverage and provide the guidance they seek from their broker.

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?
EQUA has the right culture and vision to attract anyone. The team at EQUA is incredible. Personally, being surrounded by people with expertise is invigorating and inspiring. I love to learn and do what is right for the customer. This is the perfect environment for that.

Andrew J.

Andrew J. Kaupe

Toronto, Ontario

Explorer, philosopher, and walking risk calculator.
 

Can you tell us about your background?
I have always maintained a keen interest in developing specialized solutions for unique classes of risk, as a commercial insurance broker since 2007 and as a consultant since 2020. This interest in special risk likely comes from a lifetime of participating in various action sports in which active risk control is constant. The activities and competitions themselves have influenced my style as a person and a professional. As a former motorcycle instructor, my students and fellow instructors have taught me a great deal about teaching and about learning. Being chartered and entrusted as a private motor-yacht captain, travelling from Toronto as far as South Florida, my crews and the ocean have taught me a lot about leadership, planning, and decision-making accountability. Books on philosophy, business, physics, geopolitics, and military strategy have been instrumental in shaping my curiosity for exploring solutions born outside the box.

When did you first meet Andy?
Early on in my career.  Andy was, and is, a technical expert who I have the privilege of learning from and working with.

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?
This company’s unique combination of collective expertise and the team’s courage to pursue innovation is more than a breath of fresh air, but a recipe for success in a world bracing for economic change.
 

Helena

Helena Kwok

Vancouver, British Columbia

Role in EQUA: Associate Client Executive 

Can you tell us about your background?
I have worked in the insurance industry for 17 years, having been both a broker and an underwriter for an international insurer. Most recently, I worked in a position that combined both of these roles for an MGA specializing in the sport, leisure, and recreation sector. I graduated from Kwantlen College with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a major in Entrepreneurial Leadership. I am proud to be fluent in spoken and written English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. In my spare time, I am a nail model and have been part of a winning team (esthetician and my nails!) which was highlighted in an article in the Vancouver Sun. 
 
When did you meet Dave and Andy?
I have yet to meet Dave and Andy in person but the first Teams Video meeting I had with them was on my 2nd day at EQUA. I look forward to meeting them in person very soon.
 
Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
To work with a team of professional and industry experts who are dedicated to the specialties they serve. I'd like to continue building on the foundation of EQUA's bold culture and strong values for our client and employee relationships.

Dani

Dani McGovern

Calgary, Alberta

Role in EQUA: Curious, passionate, engaged - a lifelong member of the sport community dedicated to delivering specialized expertise to the sport & recreation industries 

Can you tell us about your background? 
I have been working in the ski industry for over 10 years, with a Ski Resort Operations and Management Diploma from Selkirk College. Throughout my career, I have gained valuable skills and knowledge in safety and risk management, customer service, and team leadership. I have a curiosity-based approach and I enjoy building connections with people and discovering creative and innovative solutions. I am an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys many hobbies, but some of my favourites are snowboarding, bouldering and sport climbing, and backcountry camping. I am beyond thrilled to have been welcomed onto the EQUA team.

Why be a part of the EQUA adventure?
​The team is flourishing with talent and integrity. While starting my journey in insurance, I am being provided amazing coaching opportunities and the chance to work with a growing company. My personal and professional development goals are valued and aligned with a pathway that will allow me to utilize my specialized knowledge and expertise while enabling me to continuously learn and apply myself in meaningful ways.

Shelley

Shelley Galenzoski

Regina, Saskatchewan

Role in EQUA: Associate Client Executive 

Can you tell us about your background? 
I’ve worked in the insurance industry for nearly 40 years. The bulk of my career has been dedicated to servicing Risk Management clients in various industries, including crown corporations, telecommunications, power, municipalities, education, event venues, financial institutions, and manufacturing. Aside from servicing renewals, issuance of certificates, and claims reporting, I have significant experience in designing, negotiating, and maintaining complex risk management programs for clients.

When did you meet Dave and Andy?
I met Dave and Andy in September of 2020 when they stopped to meet the Regina team and visit prospective clients.

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
It was a great opportunity to be involved in something new and exciting. I look forward the company growing and expanding its client base in the future and being able to contribute in any way that I can.

Daphene

Daphene Lobo

Toronto, Ontario

Role in EQUA: The Mathmagician

Can you tell us about your background? 
I moved to Canada in 2015 to study. I have been working in Accounting since 2018. Currently, I am enrolled in a FinTech course to boost my knowledge about the vast potential of financial technology.

When did you meet Dave and Andy? 
In 2018, I worked at the same brokerage as Dave and Andy. They were CEO and COO, respectively. 

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
Having worked for this executive team before, I know the kind of work ethic they bring to the table. I am excited to be a part of their journey and to help this company grow to its full potential.

Avila

Avila Lobo

Waterloo, Ontario

Role in EQUA: Versatile, dependable, perfection pursuer

Can you tell us about your background?

My career spans over 16 years in various industries—including mortgage, aviation, and now insurance—with a focus on operational excellence, quality assurance, training, and knowledge management. I began my career in India, where I was born and raised, then lived in Qatar and worked for Qatar Airways for 8 years. During the pandemic, my family and I moved to Canada. I started working for EQUA in 2023.
 
I thrive on learning processes and then optimizing efficiencies to create better ways of working. Learning new and emerging technologies, with a focus on improving quality and productivity, keeps me engaged and motivated.

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?

EQUA is a growing brokerage serving emerging and established industries with unique risk. This makes it an exciting place to be, as it allows each member of our team to help shape what EQUA becomes. I’m extremely fortunate to be a part of this adventure!

Alandra

Alandra Fyten

Calgary, Alberta

Role in EQUA: Claims Coordinator

Can you tell us about your background?
Prior to joining EQUA, I worked at a property management company as an Operations Manager. I handled insurance renewals and claims for our properties. I’ve also worked in the banking sector for five years and have over a decade of client service experience.

When did you meet Dave and Andy? 
I met Dave about 28 years ago. Andy and I met in spring 2020 when I approached EQUA to quote insurance renewals for my previous employer.

Why be part of the EQUA adventure?
I wanted to join a company that is client centric and understands that diversity creates strength. I’m excited to be part of a growing team and look forward to building this brokerage together.

Partners

Fathom Strategies

Fathom helps businesses to succeed and grow, serving diverse clients in many industries. Their values are aligned with ours - the client always comes first. Like us, they build custom solutions for clients’ unique needs, always adding value.
 

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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