Organized around the theme of entrepreneurship, the RCCAQ's 45th annual convention attracted some 1,000 participants, members and industry stakeholders on November 7‑8. Every year, this colourful two-day event is an ongoing source of inspiration!
Julie Snyder, entrepreneur "par excellence"
The proceedings kicked off with Julie Snyder's highly anticipated (and very funny) presentation on her entrepreneurial career. Noting at the outset that she was the “daughter of an insurance broker”, she won over the audience with some valuable advice drawing on her professional and personal experience. For Ms. Snyder, entrepreneurs should look for inspiration in Darwin's famous quote: “The species that survive are not the strongest or the smartest, but the ones that best adapt to change.”
High-energy trade show
More than 80 exhibitors and approximately 1,000 convention goers attended the trade show—a great opportunity for brokers to meet with industry stakeholders while enjoying a wide range of entertainment activities. The prize for 2018 booth of the year was awarded to Primaco!
As the host of the trade show, the RCCAQ encouraged the attendees to meet with its team to discuss industry issues and get acquainted with its full range of services, including training and insurance for brokerage firms. Visitors were also given a handy guide for promoting the brokerage sector in meetings with elected officials. The convention goers also had a chance to speak with AMF representatives about regulatory efforts and with business development director Bertrand Rouault about the RCCAQ's training offer. Also on hand were RCCAQ Insurance director Richard Giroux and broker Nadia Karam, who discussed insurance solutions for brokerage firms.
As part of an early-afternoon training session, two dynamic guest speakers, Eric Lemay and Richard Giroux, discussed brokers' professional obligations and duties and presented various case studies.
Networking with the next generation!
This year, the RCCAQ, in collaboration with the Coalition pour la promotion des professions en assurance de dommages, organized the Allée de la Relève, a networking session attended by students and brokers and geared towards the next generation of insurance professionals. Thanks to the participation of various member firms and more than 70 students, this activity was a resounding success!
The first day of the convention concluded with the insurers' reception, including multiple networking opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Insurers panel
The second day kicked off with the eagerly awaited insurers panel, featuring Yves Gagnon, vice-president of sales and development at L'Unique General Insurance; Guy Lecours, chief operating officer at Promutuel Insurance; Louis Gagnon, president of Canadian operations at Intact Insurance; Colm Holmes, president and CEO of Aviva Canada; Donna Ince, senior vice-president, personal and commercial insurance at RSA Canada; Ron Pavelack, vice-president, national and Quebec business development, Echelon Insurance; Tom Reikman, senior vice-president and chief distribution officer at Economical Insurance; and Lambert Morvan, chief operating officer at Northbridge Insurance. In addition to looking back at the main insurance issues for 2018, the panellists offered their thoughts on brokers' pro-business spirit and the outlook for the coming years.
Next up was the very personable entrepreneur and TV personality (Dans l'œil du dragon) Nicolas Duvernois, who hosted a dynamic and inspirational lunch seminar in which he recounted the highlights of his tumultuous career and encouraged the attendees not to be scared of facing the challenges that are sure to arise for all entrepreneurs in every sector.
Gatsby the Magnificent
The convention wrapped up with a Gatsby the Magnificent-themed banquet, ably hosted by Alexandra Diaz. The RCCAQ's outgoing chair Christopher Johnson was warmly thanked by incoming chair Patrice Pouliot.
The winner of the Young Broker of Distinction Award this year was Vincent Lemoine, who was recognized for his outstanding career.
For the guests' entertainment, the gala featured a number of performances, including a human flag and a duo of contortionists from Cirque Eloize, all marking the 45th edition of the RCCAQ's annual convention.
We would like to thank all of the participants and partners who helped make the event such a success. We look forward to seeing a huge turnout next year in Quebec City on November 12-13!
