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 .
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