Cory Young | Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Cory’s career in the insurance industry began in 1996, after completing his Honours Bachelor of Business Commerce degree at the University of Ottawa. He has since progressed “through the ranks,” to his current role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Rhodes & Williams Insurance Brokers. He has been interviewed by industry sources for his insight on the advice based channel of insurance distribution, most recently by “The Ontario Broker,” and “Canadian Underwriter.”

“I have complete confidence in our company to look after the insurance needs of all our current and future clients. We truly have an exceptional team that can act on your behalf, and become your trusted advisors,” says Cory.

His ultimate responsibility as COO of Rhodes & Williams is to empower our staff to exceed our client’s expectations in protecting what they have worked so hard to achieve. His secondary responsibilities include leadership in our industry, the advice based insurance distribution channel, and the community in which he serves.

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Mandy Ledain | Account Executive

Mandy has been with Rhodes & Williams Insurance since 2006 and in the insurance industry since 1999. She is one of the company’s top producers and has gained that status for a reason. She dedicates time to understanding her clients, their needs and the market trends. As the leader for the RCMP & Police member group program, she wants to be able to offer all of her clients the best coverage at the best rate. Mandy provides mentoring and training to other members of the Rhodes & Williams Insurance team as well.

With three lively boys at home, all involved in various sports, Mandy is a busy parent like many of her clients. Mandy also embraces being a military spouse and has assisted many members moving into the area. She understands the importance of having peace of mind when it comes to personal home and auto insurance.

Mandy holds an Honours Business Diploma from Algonquin College and the Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB) designation.

When she gets some down time, Mandy like to play softball, snap photos (mainly of her kids) and scrapbook.

Brian Cummings | Account Executive

Brian began his tenure in the insurance industry in 2014 when his retirement from athletics and end of education were complete. He obtained his Registered Insurance Broker of Ontario License, and with family in the industry it was an easy transition for Brian to pursue.

Integrity, trust and honesty are just some of the qualities Brian applies to himself to go above and beyond customer expectations. Working in the service industry for over 10 years, Brian has always had his clients best interests at heart. Brian has represented Canada on multiple occasions in athletics but currently is just trying to find the finish line in the next local marathon. If he’s not running you can usually find him golfing, skiing or playing recreational hockey and baseball.

Tim Moore | Account Executive

Tim joined Rhodes & Williams in January 2014 to fulfill the position of Sales Coordinator for Group Home and Auto – Personal Lines. He provides clients valuable savings and proper protection under Group and Personal Insurance programs.

Tim started his insurance career in 1995 selling life and disability insurance throughout Eastern Ontario and then managed a team of agents for a number of years. For the last eight years, Tim has worked for a direct insurance writer in Ottawa servicing clients in all areas of insurance and financial services.

During the winter months, you can find Tim at local hockey rinks coaching his son’s hockey team. In the summer months, Tim and his wife and family spend weekends at the cottage working on new projects or relaxing by the water.

Tommy Porteous | Account Executive

Tommy started his career in the insurance industry in 2012 after obtaining his Registered Insurance Broker of Ontario License (RIBO) license. He is currently working towards his Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB) designation and has recently completed CAIB 1. He has an advanced diploma in Business Administration from Algonquin College.

Tommy enjoys connecting with clients by phone, email or in person to understand their unique insurance needs to find the right insurance solution for his clients and their families. His goal is to always ensure that a client’s insurance experience is easy and hassle free.

In his spare time, he loves spending time with his family and two young children. He likes to keep active with various types of fitness training, running, hockey, soccer and golf.

Kerry Nicol | Personal Lines Services Supervisor

Kerry began her insurance career in 1993 in an insurance brokerage mailroom as a summer student. A year later, she decided to pursue her Registered Insurance Brokers Licence. Kerry went on to work at an Ottawa broker for seven years and teach the insurance brokers licencing course at Algonquin College for a couple of terms before taking some time off to raise her boys. Upon her re-entry into the workforce, she worked in the hi-tech industry but was eventually drawn back to the insurance world where she now enjoys her role as Account Manager. Kerry loves that every day her job brings new challenges and different people.

In her spare time, Kerry loves spending time with her family and loves to travel. She can often be found with a good book, outdoors in the warmer months and lives to vacation on the beach.

Heather Bonadie | Account Manager

Heather has been a licensed insurance broker since 1995. After graduating from Carleton University, she obtained her Registered Insurance Broker of Ontario license and began her career in the Personal Lines Department of Rhodes & Williams Insurance. She has since gone on to complete her Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker designation. She has worked as an account manager and spent over twenty years as an account executive, helping clients set up new policies to address their insurance needs. She has recently returned to her role as an account manager where she looks forward to looking after her clients.

In her personal life, Heather enjoys spending time with her family and all their activities. Her children are avid soccer and rugby players. She loves cooking, reading and walking her Australian Shepherd (Archie).

Christine Acton | Account Manager

Christine joined Rhodes & Williams Insurance in 2000. Since that time, she has maintained an excellent customer satisfaction rating and fostered client relationships. This is accomplished by completing her daily tasks, which include looking after the many changes in client insurance coverage and advising when additional coverage may be required, or recommended. This is done professionally and with a smile; which also makes her popular with fellow staff and clients alike.

Before joining Rhodes & Williams Insurance, Christine worked in the insurance industry for several years, both with insurance companies and insurance brokerages. This has allowed her to obtain the knowledge required to excel in her everyday duties and help others new to the industry.

Christine enjoys skiing with her son Rowan and husband on the weekends as well as challenges such as a biking weekend to Kingston and back. In her down time Christine can be found curled up with a good book on the beach for relaxation.

Sandy Bafia | Account Manager

Sandy started her insurance career in 1986 as a receptionist for an insurance brokerage. Soon after, she obtained her Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario license. She took a brief hiatus to return to school, obtaining a B.A. in Psychology. After graduating in 1991, she returned to the insurance industry, working in various positions in accounting and personal lines. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and enjoys working with clients to ensure that their insurance requirements are met.

In her spare time, Sandy enjoys family time, teaching fitness classes, reading, and watching classic movies.

Laurie Hall-Groulx | Account Manager

Laurie started her insurance career in 1988 working in Sudbury, Ontario and completed her Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario license in 1990. After moving to Ottawa in 1993 and working in Personal Lines Insurance, Laurie successfully completed her CAIB designation. Working in the insurance industry for more than 30 years, Laurie brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to assist her clients with their insurance needs.

In her off time she enjoys the outdoors, camping, fishing and spending time with her husband and 2 children. Bowling is her passion in the winter months.

Tina Rogers | Account Manager

Tina started her insurance career in 2005 as an office administrator for an insurance broker and obtained her Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO) licence in 2009. She has had the opportunity to work as a personal lines insurance broker and as a direct market insurance representative allowing her to gain some useful knowledge of the insurance industry and this has also helped her achieve excellent customer service experience. Prior to entering the insurance industry she worked at Chapter/Indigo for 7 years.

Tina also has a passion for travel and graduated from Algonquin College for Travel & Tourism in 2003. Over the last 2 years Tina has work very hard to obtain her Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB) designation and finally completed this in November 2018. In her spare time she is busy at home raising 2 young boys with her husband, Luke. She enjoys spending time with her family outside at a lake, taking long walks or bike rides and just simply watching her boys grow!

Trisha Thompson | Account Manager

Trisha first obtained her Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO) license in 2009, after completing Algonquin College’s two-year public relations program. She remained with her first insurance position in the industry for 9 years, enjoying the ongoing challenges and opportunities that arose from helping the same clients and their expanding families, year after year.

Personalizing the insurance experience and educating her clients is something that brings Trisha great satisfaction. She also has completed the Customer Service for the Insurance Professional (CSIP) course early in her career, which further bolstered her drive to provide exemplary customer service at all times.
After two years break from the insurance industry, Trisha has returned and is now extremely pleased to find herself at Rhodes and Williams. Always a client advocate, Trisha enjoys building relationships and fostering trust with her clients, as this is of the utmost importance when it comes to insurance.

Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, cooking/canning/preserving, music events, and animals of all kinds… and she is no stranger to a karaoke machine. Travel is also something she gets great enjoyment from, especially when it comes to nature-oriented adventures!

Cathy Mulcahy | Account Manager

Cathy has been in the insurance industry since 1983, taking a break in the 90’s to raise her 3 children. Born and raised on the St. Lawrence River, all 3 children were active in the rowing community, with her two sons going on to be coaches and recruiters in the U.S. and Canada. Cathy’s daughter has blessed her with 2 grandsons, who are also ‘junior’ river rats. Her favorite place to be is at the family cottage on the St. Lawrence River, spending time with family and friends, with her dog Wellington by her side.

Milia Kuli | Account Manager

Milia started her career in the insurance industry while still completing her college education. After graduation, she was RIBO licensed and has continued to pursue opportunities in the industry for the last 6+ years. Milia has handled a multitude of positions within the brokerage setting, and is looking forward to the new opportunity with RWL

In her free time, Milia can be found traveling, hiking, and taking care of her fur babies.

Melissa Traversy | Account Manager

Melissa is a busy mom of two who graduated from CDI College with a diploma in Business Administration and graduated from Algonquin College in the field of Security Management and Emergency Preparedness. After graduation, she worked at Scotiabank for 5 years before deciding to enter the insurance industry in 2015 and never looked back! Melissa strives to provide excellent customer service as a personal lines account manager to guarantee accurate insurance coverage and ensure to meet client’s satisfaction.

Madelaine Macrillo | Account Manager

Madelaine has worked in the insurance industry since 1973. She obtained her RIBO Insurance license in 1981 when the rules changed and required anyone speaking with the public to be licensed.

Madelaine has been working at Rhodes & Williams since 2006 as a Personal Lines Account Manager. She joined RWL as part of a brokerage purchase that was made.

When not at work, Madelaine enjoys spending time with her family and their cats.

Elizabeth McIntyre | Account Manager

Elizabeth is a 3^rd generation insurance professional who joined Rhodes & Williams in 2018 after the family owned brokerage she had been working for since 2002 was purchased. She works as a Personal Lines Account Manager and is proud of the service and support that she provides to her clients. Elizabeth has been in the insurance industry since 1997 and obtained her RIBO license in 2002. She obtained her B.Com in 2004 and graduated from the Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB) program in 2007 where she is proud to have received the distinction of being the top CAIB graduate in the province. In her personal times, Elizabeth likes to read and travel with her husband.

Maggie Check | Account Manager

Maggie is a Renewal Specialist in Personal Lines servicing our existing clients.  She graduated Carleton University with her Psychology degree in 2010.  After graduation she obtained her OTL Insurance License and became an Account Executive with State Farm Insurance. In 2011 she received her Life Insurance License and continued selling in both Personal Lines as well as Life and Health Insurance.  In 2017 she received her RIBO License and continued her career working with an insurance brokerage- Jarrett Thompson Insurance which merged with Rhodes and Williams Insurance in 2019.

In her spare time, you will find her outside exploring new places, on a patio or around a fire with friends and family.

Jaime Redmond | Account Manager

Jaime began her insurance career in 2009 as an Agent Representative for a direct market company.  Over those 13 years she has built strong roots in the insurance industry and excellent customer service skills.  She leaves the agency with a heavy heart but is excited for her new journey here at Rhodes and Williams.  Shortly after starting at Rhodes and Williams, she obtained her Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO) licence and is ready to jump into her role of Personal Lines Account Manager.

Jaime has two beautiful and very active little girls and her and her husband, Brad, are very involved in all kinds of sports.  The Redmonds spend a lot of time in Bancroft with family enjoying the water and nature.  Jaime loves to play cards, get creative and spend time outside with her girls.

Sue Lytle | Account Administrator

Sue has been working in the insurance industry for 23 years and has been with Rhodes & Williams Insurance for the past 18 years. She is an Account Administrator who has worked from her home for the past seven years, issuing endorsements and renewals for one of our largest insurance companies.

When not hard at work, Sue enjoys spending time at the cottage with her husband and two children.

Bev Podlesny | Account Administrator

Bev moved to Ottawa back in 1979 and started working at Rhodes & Williams Insurance. She has been there ever since except for about eight years when she had kids. Bev works in the personal lines department where she bills and issues policy changes, does the morning reports, scans in all documents and just about anything else that is required of her. She helps out at the food bank and is a Sparks’s leader. Some of her favourite pastimes are gardening, scrapbooking and watching the Ottawa Senators go for the cup.

Laura Underhill | Account Administrator

Laura has been with Rhodes & Williams Insurance since April 2001 and has been licensed with The Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario for over 15 years. She finds her role as a Technical Assistant in the New Business Department, both challenging and extremely rewarding. Her attention to detail and thoroughness means she is there for you, just behind the scenes.

Outside the office, Laura enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and biking the bike paths of Ottawa’s west end. She is also actively involved in raising funds for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (a charity that really hits home to her). She started taking part in their annual “Light the Night” walk with their very first one in October 2010.

Tammy Gribbon | Account Administrator

Prior to joining Rhodes and Williams, Tammy worked for a transportation company where she was responsible for accounts receivables and office administration. She is excited to be starting a new career as Personal Lines Account Administrator. Tammy looks forward to furthering her education as she works towards her RIBO certification.

When she is not at work, Tammy is kept busy with her husband and three teenagers. In her spare time, Tammy enjoys time at the cottage with family and friends, walking with her dog and relaxing with a good book.

Patti Abraham | Account Administrator

Patti began her insurance career in 1983 with a major insurance company. In 1989 she moved to the broker side of insurance to work closer to her home and has been working as a Customer Service Representative for the past 25 years.

With many years of insurance experience in personal lines, this will benefit her in her new position as Personal Lines Account Administrator.

In her spare time Patti enjoys, traveling, fishing and four wheeling with friends.

Toni Villeneuve | Account Administrator

Antonietta (Toni) was born in Italy and came to Canada, with her family, at the tender age of 3. Toni has one adult son, Roberto and teenage stepdaughter, Jamelie and is married to Andre Villeneuve who taught her to reach for the sky and never give up on your dreams.

In 2014, she left a job of 28 years to become an Insurance Broker. Having never worked in the insurance industry, she saw an opportunity to work with Steve Hill at S.M. Hill Insurance Brokers in North Gower, Ontario.

In January of 2015, she obtained her RIBO licence and worked out of the North Gower location as an account manager for 4 years. She then moved over to the head office at Rhodes & Williams in Ottawa on September 1, 2018, where she is enjoying learning about insurance in a much bigger environment as an Account Administrator.

In her spare time she enjoys crocheting, cooking, camping and spending time with her friends, family and her pug Zeus.

Jake Lavigne | Account Administrator

Born and raised in Ottawa, Jake attended Algonquin College and received his advanced diploma in Business Administration with a specialization in Finance, as well as his Canadian Securities Certification. After a few years in the customer service and construction industries, Jake is excited to start his career in insurance and will work to receive his RIBO license.

Emily Cox | Account Administrator

Emily grew up in Ottawa, where her love of children led her to study Early Childhood Education at Algonquin College. After graduating with honours, she spent the next twenty years working primarily in the childcare industry.  Emily came to Rhodes and Williams to explore a new career path as an Account Administrator in 2022. Emily adores animals, nature, dance, and music. Outside the office, she enjoys a variety of outdoor activities and spending time with her friends and family.

Hannah Thompson | Account Administrator

Hannah was born in Nova Scotia but at the age of 5 her family relocated from Cape Breton Island to make Ottawa her new home. She attended Algonquin College where she received her certificate in Pre-Trades. Hannah has changed her career path and is excited to learn about the world of insurance and work her way to being RIBO certified.

Being a busy mom, Hannah loves watching her son achieve all his milestones as he grows. Spending time with family and friends is important to Hannah. She enjoys baking with her son, crocheting, and loves sitting down with a good book to wind down.

Valerie Bishop | Account Administrator

Val was born in Kingston and first moved to Ottawa in 2012. They graduated from St Lawrence College with diplomas in advertising and human resources, however they found a calling in the insurance industry. Val brings 15 years of customer service experience to Rhodes & Williams and has been in the insurance industry for almost 10 years, servicing personal lines insurance in six provinces during this time. They have a passion for furthering their education and plan to obtain their RIBO license so they can continue to adapt and evolve as the industry does the same. They are excited to bring their knowledge, experience and positivity to Rhodes & Williams as an Account Administrator.

Outside of work, Val and their husband enjoy travelling, cooking, video games and live music. They are also a proud member of the LBGTQ+ community and have previously helped organize community events to give back and raise awareness.

Mark Pusiak | Senior Account Executive

Mark began his insurance career in Toronto after completing his Bachelors of Economics at Laurentian University in Sudbury. He started his career as a Property Insurance Underwriter at a global insurance company. While he was in Toronto, he transitioned from the insurance company side to the insurance brokering profession with a national insurance broker. He moved to Ottawa with another broker that was subsequently purchased by the largest international insurance broker in the world. During this time Mark became a Senior Vice President and Commercial Sales Manager for the Ottawa branch.

Mark joined Rhodes & Williams Ltd in 2008 as a Senior Account Manager. He is the Commercial Sales Manager and is heavily involved in the Technology Practice Group.

During his spare time Mark and his wife Lorraine shuttle their two girls to various activities including skiing, swimming, skating and dance. He spends every weekend from May to October building a cottage on an island on the Ottawa River in Petawawa.

Chris Armstrong | Account Executive

Chris has enjoyed a successful insurance career with Rhodes & Williams Insurance since 1991. Chris is the Personal Lines Manager and actively manages his book of commercial clients. Chris has been a Partner of the insurance brokerage since 1993. With many years of experience in the Account Executive role, Chris has developed a broad knowledge of the mechanics within the insurance industry allowing him to better serve his personal and commercial clients by developing a strong comprehensive program tailored specifically to his clients needs. Chris is a university graduate (B.A.), a Registered Insurance Broker in the province of Ontario (RIBO) and has achieved his Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB) designation.

Away from the office Chris is actively involved in youth sports. He coaches his three kids in hockey and lacrosse. The greatest passions in his life, of course, are his family and friends.

Kristy McDougall | Account Executive

After graduating from University with a degree in Psychology, Kristy worked as a claims adjuster for four years with one of Canada’s leading insurance companies. Kristy has been with Rhodes & Williams Insurance for over 25 years; the first five years as a Personal Lines Account Executive and then as a Commercial Account Executive. For over 15 years, Kristy has also handled the role of the Human Resource Manager for a growing and busy office. She finds the dual role challenging but rewarding as she is able to continue the relationships with her commercial clients as well as handling the day to day personnel issues.

In her spare time, Kristy and her husband Bill can be found in the rinks, fields and courts watching their children who are involved in many sports. Personally, Kristy enjoys working out, playing golf and vacationing at their cottage in PEI.

Michel Beauregard | Account Executive

Michel joined Rhodes & Williams Insurance as a Commercial Insurance Broker in 1995. He understands the challenges business owners face since he owned a retail and distribution company for twenty years.

He is a Registered Insurance Broker (RIBO) and a Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB). He is also licensed in the province of Québec as a “Courtier en Assurance de dommages des Particuliers et des Entreprises.”

Combining his business background and insurance knowledge allows him to make value added recommendations around the design of an insurance program and risk management issues. While he has helped business owners in various industry sectors he has developed specific expertise in Technology, Retirement Living and Associations.

Darren O’Connell | Account Executive

Prior to joining Rhodes & Williams Insurance in January 2000, Darren was employed by one of Canada’s leading insurance companies as a Commercial Lines Underwriter and Portfolio Consultant/Marketing Representative. He is currently a Registered Insurance Broker in Ontario (RIBO), a Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Professionals of Canada (FCIP) and has completed the Canadian Risk Management study program and received his C.R.M and the Construction Risk Insurance Specialist program (C.R.I.S.).

As your Account Executive his responsibilities will involve working with you to understand the intricacies of your business in order to design, implement and regularly update a cost-effective comprehensive insurance program tailored to your individual insurance needs. Away from the office Darren is busy with his three kids and can likely be found at either a hockey rink, lacrosse arena or football field.

Lonny Lessard | Account Executive

Lonny began his insurance career in college where he graduated from Algonquin College’s Business Insurance program in 2002. Shortly after, he joined ING Insurance and was a claims representative with them until 2005; when he joined the Rhodes & Williams Insurance team.

After starting out in personal lines, Lonny quickly began to excel in business insurance finding his strength within the contracting industry. Through on site experience and various industry-specific training courses and programs, Lonny is becoming an expert in dealing with contractors’ insurance. He enjoys working closely with his clients to understand their business and put together the best insurance program for their individual needs.

During his free time, Lonny enjoys playing various sports such as hockey and golf and is an avid fisherman. If he’s not on the water, at the rink, or on the green, chances are you’ll find Lonny out and about spending time with family and friends.

Lorne Wiebe | Account Executive

Lorne joined the Rhodes & Williams Commercial Account Executive team in 2012 when he and his wife Karen moved to Ottawa. Lorne is a leading insurance specialist in the aviation, energy, environmental and life science sectors. Lorne is R.I.B. Ontario and NYS P&C licensed.

Jeff Byrne | Account Executive

For the past 18 years, Jeff has worked at creating strong relationships with his clients. His focus has been on creating risk management strategies for the construction and trades industry. He has extensive resources that allow him to find the best coverage solution for each unique client’s situation

Jeff is proud of his local roots having been born and raised in Stittsville. In his spare time, you will find him enjoying his family and friends. Hobbies include but not limited to hockey, skiing and golf.

Heather Ross | Account Executive

Heather Ross is a portfolio review specialist offering her expertise in Commercial and Personal lines insurance to our existing clients and consumers who want a fresh review of their current insurance program. Heather obtained her Registered Insurance Broker license in 1988, launching her successful career in the insurance industry by working in the underwriting, sales, customer service, business development and accounting areas of the business ─ eventually joining the brokerage owned by her father, Eric McLean Insurance Brokers Inc.

A strategic alliance was developed with Rhodes & Williams in 2000 to adapt to the evolving business of insurance and technology in the best interests of their clients. In 2004, Heather obtained her Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker designation and her Principal Broker license to manage Eric McLean Insurance Brokers with her father ─ until Rhodes & Williams Limited acquired the brokerage in February 2014.

Heather also owns and operates a successful electrical contracting company with her husband. In her spare time, she enjoys her passion for grooming and training dogs, travelling with her family and making the most of each and every day!

Hilary Scaffidi | Commercial Lines Service Manager

A veteran of the insurance industry of more than 34 years, Hilary has experience in many aspects of the business. Her primary focus has been commercial insurance with roles in customer service, underwriting and management. An active member of the insurance community, she served as a board member for the local and provincial broker associations as well as the local insurance institute.

Hilary is a Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Professionals of Canada (FCIP), has completed the Canadian Risk Management and Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker programs receiving her CRM and CAIB designations.

She is a registered insurance broker in Ontario (RIBO – unrestricted), and is licensed in Alberta, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Saskatchewan and Yukon.

An avid traveler and pet lover, she enjoys time with family, friends and her dogs.

Christine Haapala | Portfolio Manager

After graduating with her BA from the University of Waterloo, Christine moved to Ottawa and was hired as a receptionist at a local brokerage. She accelerated quickly to the commercial department where she worked as a technical assistant. Two years later, she completed her R.I.B.O. training and became a licensed insurance broker. She joined the Rhodes & Williams Limited team in October 2006.

Christine is responsible for your day-to-day needs, including Certificates of Insurance, claims reporting, and contract reviews. Her duties also include marketing, coverage comparisons, policy changes, and any general inquiries. Since obtaining her license in 2004, she continually attends seminars to keep her education in line with the ever-changing insurance industry. She is organized, efficient, and always looks forward to speaking with her commercial clients.

Christine is happily married with two pretty awesome kids. She and her family enjoy spending time outside in their suburban community and playing with their two dogs. In what little spare time she has between shuttling her kids to various activities, she enjoys yoga, trying new restaurants, curling up with coffee and a good book (and a dog or two) and spending time with close family and friends.

Erin Murphy | Portfolio Manager

Erin has worked for Rhodes & Williams Insurance for a few years and has been in the insurance industry for almost nine years. She has just recently received her Registered Insurance Broker of Ontario license.

Erin is a proud mother of two boys and helps run a company with her husband.

Cheryl Martin | Portfolio Manager

Cheryl started her career in the insurance industry in 1984 after graduating with her Legal Secretarial Degree from St. Lawrence College. Hired as a receptionist, she quickly obtained her R.I.B.O certificate and worked as a Personal Lines Broker for six years before transferring to Commercial Lines. With over 30 years of experience Cheryl has developed extensive knowledge of the insurance industry and has the ability to handle large commercial accounts with technical or complex needs. Her duties as a Commercial Portfolio Manager includes day-to-day customer service, policy changes, review of contracts for certificates and claims as well as marketing, quotation, policy comparisons and Proposals of insurance.

Cheryl enjoys spending time with her two grandchildren, getting together with family and friends, going for walks and cross-country skiing.

Sheri Cashman | Account Manager

Sheri began her insurance career 30 years ago at a large Property & Casualty insurance company in Ottawa. During her time there she worked in both the Commercial Lines and Personal Lines departments and obtained her CIP designation in 2012.

In order to enhance her career, she obtained her RIBO license in 2014 and became a member of the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario. She has been a Customer Service Representative in personal insurance for the past 6 years. Sheri is excited to be joining the Commercial Department at Rhodes & Williams and diving into a new side of the business.

Sheri’s personal interests include reading, cycling and traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Dawn Senior | Portfolio Manager

Dawn has worked in the insurance industry for over 27 years. Dawn brings with her a rather diverse experience in the insurance world, being able to help with the insurance process from many angles since starting in a reception position at a Markham brokerage in 1992 as well as spending time in Personal Lines. For the last 25 years Dawn has enjoyed the complexity of working with commercial accounts. As a Portfolio Manager Dawn enjoys the opportunity to offer guidance and handling of small and large commercial accounts in a friendly and efficient manner. Dawn’s other day-to-day responsibilities include coordinating policy changes, review of contracts for certificates and claims, marketing, quotation, policy comparisons and proposals of insurance. Dawn is looking forward to exchanging knowledge and learning new things with the Rhodes and Williams team.

In her time away from the office Dawn likes to spend time with her 3 amazing kids and extended family.

Cindy Brown | Account Manager

Cindy’s tenure in the insurance industry began in early May of 2002 and includes three years of College Training in the Business Insurance Program at Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology. She is a member of the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario, licensed by The Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario and is currently working towards her C.I.P. designation.

As a Commercial Lines Account Manager, her duties extend to the preparation of correspondence, Certificates of Insurance, customer inquiries, claim reporting and all other general insurance requests.

Tammy Ferguson | Portfolio Manager

Tammy has been in the insurance industry since 2002. Using her accounting background, she started out looking after the daily financial transactions of an Eastern Ontario brokerage. She also supported personal lines brokers and served as back up receptionist. After a merger in 2014, Tammy gave up her accounting duties and obtained her RIBO license. Since one of her mantras is ‘anything worth doing is worth doing well’, she immediately started studying for her CIP (Chartered Insurance Professional) and completed that in the fall of 2017.

Tammy loves the challenge of the ever changing world of commercial insurance. Her role includes coordinating policy changes, review of contracts for certificates and claims, marketing, quotation, policy comparisons and proposals of insurance. She is a friendly professional and prides herself on providing excellent customer service.

In her spare time, Tammy enjoys spending time with her children Chris and Tyler, her partner Mike and their 2 very spoiled dogs Dexter and Dixie along with their affectionate/persistent cat Magnum.

Maria Reyes | Account Manager

Maria has been in the insurance industry since 2013, starting as a Technical Assistant. After obtaining her RIBO license in Sept 2017, she started working in the Commercial Lines Department to assist clients with their general insurance inquiries and requests including but not limited to policy changes, reviews, remarketing.

Maria is a friendly professional who is patient, and reliable and always has her clients best interests in mind.

In her personal time, Maria loves spending time with her husband and their 2 children. Most of their time is spent at home, taking day trips, walking on trails and eating good food.

Marie Low | Portfolio Manager

Marie has been in the insurance industry since 2007.  Starting as a receptionist, she quickly obtained her RIBO licence and has enjoyed working with clients ever since.  Marie works in the Commercial Lines department helping  clients with their needs which can include policy changes, reviews, certificates of insurance and remarketing to name a few.  The variety of commercial accounts keeps her on her toes.

In her personal time, Marie enjoys skiing and biking with her 2 young boys Mason and Josh, and staying competitive with her husband Darcy in Ironman triathlon training and races.

Raven Gobeille | Technical Assistant

Raven recently returned back home to Ottawa after living in Vancouver for 4 years. Raven has 7 years’ experience in Hospitality working as a Server, Bartender and lastly as a General Manager. For the last 2 years, she has worked in Auto Sales. Raven became interested in the Insurance world after hearing from her Aunt, who works with our sister company Capcorp Financial, about a potential job opening at Rhodes & Williams. Raven is eager to learn the ins and outs of the insurance industry and looks forward to obtaining her RIBO license in the near future.

In her spare time, Raven loves to take her German Shepard Mila on long walks and hikes. She loves camping, cooking and reading.

Tanya McNeely | Technical Assistant

Tanya is one of our accomplished insurance veterans with over 18 years’ experience in various roles throughout the organization. Her attention to detail makes her the perfect fit as our in-house Surety Specialist and Technical Assistant in our Commercial Department.

Her hobbies include camping, attending concerts, crafting and event planning which makes her an invaluable member of our Social Committee. She is also an active participant on our Health and Safety Committee.

She is the proud Mom of 2 active boys and can be found in the hockey stands cheering in the winter or watching them Go-Kart racing during the summer months.

Mary McAllister-Diks | Technical Assistant

Beginning her insurance career in 1986, Mary worked as a registered insurance broker (RIBO) and business owner.  In 1999 she made the life altering decision to leave the industry in order to stay home and raise a family. During her hiatus, Mary’s time and energy were invested in her children as well as becoming an active community volunteer with the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and serving as a board member for several not-for-profit organizations. With both children away attending different universities, Mary re-entered the insurance industry in 2019 and looks forward to picking up where she left off.

Carly Morgan | Technical Assistant

Prior to joining Rhodes and Williams, Carly managed a boutique pet store and grooming salon where she was responsible for the visual merchandising and customer service. She is excited to be starting a new career as a Commercial Lines Technical Assistant. Carly looks forward to furthering her education as she works towards her RIBO certification.

Outside of the office, Carly enjoys spending time with her niece, nephew, friends and family, as well as cooking and travelling.

Jennifer Pitre | Technical Assistant

Jennifer recently moved to Ottawa from the city of Hamilton, where she worked in a bakery for 9 years. She began studying insurance in 2020 at Mohawk College and The Insurance Institute of Canada. She is excited to begin her career with Rhodes and Williams and to continue learning all about the industry.

Outside of work, Jennifer is an animal lover and enjoys staying active. She also loves going on new adventures and is excited to explore Ottawa.

Chelsea is originally from Sault Ste. Marie but moved to Ottawa to study Business Administration at Algonquin College. After receiving her advanced diploma and majoring in Human Resources, Chelsea found herself at Rhodes & Williams after 12 years in the customer service industry. Chelsea is excited to be part of the RWL team and is dedicated to advancing her knowledge of insurance.

In her free time; Chelsea enjoys going on hikes, painting, reading, and coffee shops.

Mary Raymond | Office Manager

Mary Raymond graduated from Algonquin College with a Diploma in Administration, Majoring in Accounting. Her first job was as a Bank Teller/Accounting clerk with the Ottawa Fire Fighters Credit Union. When she moved to Rhodes & Williams in 1982, no one would have dreamed what the future would hold for her.
After more than 35 years, Mary is still with Rhodes & Williams Group of Companies, in the position of Office Manager. While her title has not changed from day one, Mary’s skills and responsibilities have grown as the company grew. Now, as a key member of the management team and senior member of the accounting department, Mary enjoys the team she works with and still loves coming to the office.

When not at work, you can find Mary volunteering at the farmers market, taking road trips to just about anywhere, traveling or curled up with a good book.

Amanda Laverdure | Accounting & IT Manager

Amanda brings over 15 years of finance and business experience to her role of Accounting and IT Manager for Rhodes & Williams. She oversees RW’s critical accounting functions, including accounts receivable and payable, banking, reconciliations and budgeting.

Amanda joined RW from an adventure company in the Ottawa Valley, where she served as the Office Manager, handling the administrative duties of the rafting company in the summer and the ski hill in the winter.

Her spare time finds her travelling, playing softball, gardening and running after her 5 nephews.

Sandy Pigeon | Accounting

Sandy brings more than 30 years of accounting and leadership experience to Rhodes & Williams. She was Office Manager of H.D. Fripp & Son prior to their amalgamation into Rhodes & Williams in 2013. Sandy is now a key member of the accounting team for the Rhodes Group of Companies. She also handles the licensing for Rhodes in the various provinces across the country and parts of the US.

In her spare time Sandy loves to travel, cross-stitch and golf.

Debbie Bryans | Accounting

Debbie has 20 years of accounting experience and says she is dedicated to the insurance industry now and loves her job! Her love of the numbers began when she opened her upholstery business and realized she enjoyed the accounting aspect of it so she went back to school and obtained her accounting diploma from The Academy of Learning in Lindsay, ON. She enjoys the easy-going nature of her co-workers and prides herself in doing the best work she can each and every day.

Before coming to Rhodes & Williams, she worked as an Office Manager in a machine shop, an admin assistant/bookkeeper in a tax office, AR/AP in a telecom company and an admin assistant/demo manager for an equipment company. Her varying roles have given her the versatility to adapt to any changes that may come her way.

When not in the office, you can find her enjoying her hobbies of painting, reading, swimming, gardening and fishing. But her favourite pastime is cuddling with her granddaughter while watching movies.

Tina Rushton | File Clerk

Tina was born in Sudbury, Ontario. In 1977, she graduated from Nickel District High School with a Grade 12 diploma. At the age of 18 came to Ottawa to make her mark. With the help of relatives she found an apartment, a job and friends working at Sun Alliance (now Royal Sun Alliance) as an Administrative Clerk. In 1981, Tina married and in 1986 relocated to Edmonton, Alberta with her husband Paul and two daughters, Andrea and Jen. For the next several years raised her daughters and worked part time for her sister-in-law, Susan at her retail stores. In 1995 it was back to Ottawa. With both girls active in jobs and school, Tina decided to return to the Insurance industry & joined Rhodes & Williams Insurance in 2004. Her duties include reception, mail & filing.

In her spare time she enjoys scrapbooking, needlepoint and cheering her girls on in football.

Joanne Bradley | Office Administrator

Joanne recently joined our Rhodes and Williams Administrative Team. With over 20 years of office skills experience and knowledge, she is an active addition to the team. Joanne ensures that the office runs smoothly, that issues are handled swiftly and she takes the initiative to organize and upkeep all areas. She is also available to assist employee’s in all that they require.

In her spare time, Joanne is busy with 2 teenagers and an active household. She loves paper crafts, Netflix, enjoys animals and appreciates the value and serenity of Nature.

Amanda Sokoloski | Accounting

Amanda moved from Winnipeg, MB in 2022 where she worked in Accounting for 6 years. The years Amanda spent at her prior companies has given her the versatility to adapt to different sizes of work environments and workloads. She excited to bring her knowledge to Rhodes & Williams.

Amanda is looking forward to a fresh start in a new city and a new career with Rhodes & Williams.  Her main goal is to explore and experience as much of Ottawa as she can.

In her spare time, you will see her hands full with her 3 beautiful children. They love to go for walks, hikes and trails with their dog.

Madelaine You | Receptionist

Madelaine has over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry as a medical assistant and registered pharmacy technician. In those years, she spent a lot of time dealing directly with the public by assisting in diabetic clinics and consulting as a weight loss coach to half a dozen clients. As the lead technician she would oversee the daily essential duties, meet pharmaceutical representatives or attend medical seminars.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer in the summer of 2019 she made the choice to retire from the healthcare industry to start a new venture in the world of insurance with Rhodes and Williams.

Living with a positive mindset and balanced lifestyle with strong family values is the key to a stress free environment.

Raj Pitale | Marketing & IT Coordinator

Raj is an MBA graduate in Marketing Management, he has experience of working with a SaaS organization as a Marketing executive and helped in establishing a global presence for the organization. He is experienced in conventional marketing strategies, research with analysis and has developed his skills to learn consumer behavior. He has good knowledge of all the digital media platforms, tools to organize the clients, and performance marketing of their products and service.

He is a fitness enthusiast and makes sure to follow a balanced and healthy life. He starts his day with a fun fitness activity. In his spare time, he likes socializing and keeps on learning new techniques to enhance his Marketing knowledge. His theory to life is “Improving 1% a day, leads to growth of 365% a year”