Meet Our Small Business Team
We asked our employees from different locations some questions. Here’ s what they had to say...
Shannon Venerus-Brown Small Business Team Manager Fort Frances Branch
How long have you been in the insurance industry? 14 Years
How long have you been with Gillons? 14 Years
How long have you been in the Small Business Team? 13 Years
Where did you grow up? Fort Frances
What is your favourite part about your job?
Meeting new customers and finding the right solutions for their needs as well as servicing my existing clients
Which of our Gillons values best describes you and why? Human Factor – building relationships with clients for the long term
Why Gillons? They care about the communities they live in, believe in their employees by providing growth, support training and compassion
Allison Dearlove Kenora Branch
How long have you been in the insurance industry 14 Years
How long have you been with Gillons? 7 Years
Where did you grow up? Kenora
What are your hobbies outside of work?
Crocheting, reading & walking
What are the most recent services in your community you have volunteered for? Secretary of Harbourfest
What is your niche Small Business that you enjoy selling / discussing? Retail... i love to shop
Which of our Gillons values best describes you and why? Community involvement and helping understand the north
Why Gillons?
Because we rock! We know the people and communities and will go to bat for your small business needs
Shelly McCool’ s Kenora Branch
How long have you been in the insurance industry?
29 years
What are the most recent services in your community you have volunteered for? I have sat on many boards over the years but am currently involved with Women’ s Place Kenora, It’ s a Dog’ s Life, Kenora Construction Association and Women’ s Business Network. I also volunteer with our local business group, Harbour Town Biz to help light the Main Street Christmas tree, one of my favourite events! One great surprise for me was being awarded the International Women’ s Day Bread and Roses Award in 2016 for my commitment to women’ s rights and volunteer work.
What are your hobbies outside of work? I enjoy all crafts, painting, woodworking and working on my family history.
What is your favourite part about your job? I enjoy talking with new clients and hearing about their new business ventures. With the contacts I have obtained over the years, there is usually a suggestion or two that I can make to help them along.
Which of our Gillons values best describes you and why? Community involvement has always been important to me. Many can donate to a cause but without volunteers it wouldn’ t be possible to make the magic of that organization happen.
28