2024 Underwriters of the Year | Dave Allan, Personal Lines Underwriter, Portage Mutual Insurance

Dave Allan’s insurance career reflects a blend of deep experience on the broker and insurer side that has contributed to his success over the years.

After graduating from Mohawk College’s Insurance program in 1996, he worked as a broker for 12 years before accepting an underwriting position in 2009. This expertise and understanding of both sides of the industry has seen Allan, who earned his CIP designation in 1999, becoming a valued Personal Lines Underwriter at Portage Mutual Insurance.

When he’s not working, Allan likes to cook, garden, golf, and spend time with his family.

“It’s so nice to be recognized for my efforts. Being acknowledged is a gratifying affirmation of the hard work and dedication I’ve invested in my role,” Allan says of his nomination by Mackay Insurance, a broker member of the Canadian Broker Network – Canada’s largest network of independent brokers.

Q: What makes a great underwriter-broker working relationship?

“Having been a broker myself, I understand the urgency when a broker calls on behalf of their client, needing a quick response. My goal is always to be available and responsive, ensuring brokers receive the assistance they need efficiently.”

Q: Why did you become an underwriter, and what do you love most about your role?

“The opportunity to shift my career direction and embrace new challenges drew me to underwriting. What I love most about the industry is its constant evolution. The insurance sector is always changing, and I enjoy the challenge of adapting to these changes and finding innovative solutions.”

Q: What’s the biggest challenge for underwriters in P&C currently, and one thing they can do to overcome it?

“Maintaining availability and responsiveness to our broker partners. Overcoming this challenge requires a commitment to being accessible and responsive, which helps in addressing broker and client needs effectively.”

Q: Given the current talent shortage, what would you say to encourage people to join the industry?

“The insurance industry offers a range of opportunities and is a stable career choice. It provides diverse career paths and the chance to make a meaningful impact. You’ll get to work with great people and build relationships. With plenty of opportunities for growth and development at every level, it’s a rewarding field that’s constantly evolving.”

Q: What’s one opportunity you think underwriters should focus more on in today’s marketplace?

“One significant opportunity is working closely with brokers to find solutions to customer needs. As the industry evolves, underwriters can play a key role in collaborating with brokers to address and resolve customer concerns, ensuring both parties can provide optimal solutions.” 

Q: How do you see technology, including AI, impacting the role of underwriters in the coming years?

“Progress in technology is ongoing, and AI will continue to influence the role of underwriters. While technology will bring changes, it will also provide new tools and resources to enhance our practices. Embracing these advancements will be key to staying current and effective in our roles.”

 

The Canadian Broker Network Underwriter of the Year awards is a flagship program that CBN has been running on behalf of its members since 2017. The program is exclusive to CBN in partnership with Canadian Underwriter magazine. The categories allow for each of our member firms, at their option, to select one commercial lines underwriter winner as well as one personal lines underwriter winner from a primary market. The program evolved in 2021 to also allow for one commercial lines underwriter from an MGA in addition to the other two categories. The criteria includes underwriting excellence and risk knowledge; prompt and effective responsiveness back to CBN members; writing business that satisfies clients’ needs while creating a win-win for the broker and the insurer; a positive, helpful attitude; and investing time to develop trusting relationships with brokers.

Full list of 2024 Underwriters of the Year Award