In December, the OLIP interns had the privileged opportunity of meeting with Colin Simpson, CEO of the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO). The IBAO is a non-profit association which represents the interests of over 15,000 Ontario brokers to industry stakeholders and all levels of government. It is also the largest provincial broker association in the country. And, as a Purple Trillium partner, they are a generous supporter and friend of the programme.
The IBAO advocates on a variety of matters that are important to brokers and consumers alike, including environmental issues and industry modernization. It also practices nonpartisanship and works across party lines to collaborate on initiatives within and between the provinces.
Mr. Simpson led the interns through a fascinating conversation regarding the insurance sector in Ontario. We learned a great deal about the purpose of insurance brokers, and the IBAO’s role in licensing, educating, and engaging brokers. Our discussion expanded to touch on auto-insurance reform in Ontario, the differences between provinces’ insurance structures and the future of insurance in the context of a changing climate. The interns came away from the discussion with a broader understanding of all the ways the insurance industry interacts with the economy, society, and everyday life.
A massive thanks to Colin Simpson for taking the time to meet with us to discuss some of the major issues that are important to the IBAO, brokerages, and policy holders in Ontario. Your insights opened the interns’ eyes to the vast and exciting world of insurance. Thank you again to the IBAO for their ongoing support of the OLIP programme. Your longstanding partnership with OLIP is deeply appreciated!
