Western Financial Group, established in 1995 and headquartered in High River, Canada, is a prominent insurance brokerage offering a comprehensive range of services including property, liability and life insurance products. The company has experienced significant growth over the years, expanding its presence across Canada with numerous acquisitions and partnerships.
As of January 2024, Western Financial Group operates with a workforce of approximately 1,800 employees under the leadership of CEO Kenny Nicholls.
In July 2017, Western Financial Group was acquired by Trimont Financial, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company, for $775 million.
This strategic acquisition enabled Western Financial Group to leverage Wawanesa’s extensive resources and expertise, further strengthening its market position. Wawanesa, founded in 1896 in Wawanesa, Manitoba, is one of Canada’s largest mutual insurance companies with assets exceeding $11.3 billion as of 2020.
Western Financial Group’s expansion strategy has included acquiring various insurance brokerages to broaden its service offerings and geographic reach. Notable acquisitions include Wyatt Dowling Insurance Brokers in 2018, EGM Insurance Group in 2019 and Orr & Associates Insurance Brokers Ltd. in 2020. These strategic moves have enabled the company to surpass 180 branches nationwide, solidifying its position as a leading insurance brokerage in Canada.
Western Financial Group stands as one of Canada’s most prominent insurance providers. With a network spanning more than 220 locations across the nation and a robust team of over 2,100 members, our operations are deeply rooted in our Guiding Principles: Truthfulness, Fairness, Value and Loyalty. These principles inform every decision we make, enabling us to deliver tailored insurance solutions that empower our customers to live confidently.
Position Overview: Insurance Sales Producer
In the role of Insurance Sales Producer with Western Financial Group, you will leverage your expertise in Commercial Insurance to build, maintain and grow a book of business. This ensures that your customers always have the coverage they need. It is essential to note that this position operates on a commission-based structure.
Your responsibilities will encompass identifying sales opportunities, managing account activities and maintaining a high retention rate within your portfolio. This is a hybrid role, requiring flexibility to work both remotely and in-office, depending on client and business needs.
Typical Responsibilities and Daily Tasks
Your daily activities as an Insurance Sales Producer will include a blend of business development, account management and customer service.
Here’s what a typical day may look like:
- Building a Book of Business:
- Actively prospect, network and secure referrals to cultivate a portfolio of clients.
- Strategically plan and implement methods to generate new sales including identifying leads and cross-selling insurance products.
- Managing Existing Accounts:
- Conduct comprehensive risk assessments and market analysis to ensure appropriate coverage for clients.
- Process changes, review renewals and deliver continuous account management to maintain client satisfaction.
- Product and Service Referrals:
- Recommend relevant insurance products and services across all lines of business, ensuring client needs are comprehensively protected.
- Customer Retention:
- Build strong client relationships by delivering exceptional service and ensuring high levels of satisfaction to promote retention.
- Operational Responsibilities:
- Navigate multiple insurance partner portals to complete and manage customer applications.
- Ensure underwriting guidelines and risk appetites align with client requirements through transparent communication with insurance carrier underwriters.
- Act as an intermediary between clients and external insurance partners, ensuring fair representation for both.
- Professional Development:
- Engage in self-improvement initiatives including industry-related coursework and community involvement.
- Stay updated on industry trends and regulations to provide clients with the most accurate and informed advice.
- Administrative Duties:
- Manage client Accounts Receivables and maintain professionalism in all forms of client and peer communication.
Qualifications and Skills
To excel in this role, the following qualifications and attributes are essential:
- Licensing and Expertise:
- Possession of a General Insurance Level 2 License is mandatory.
- Extensive experience in Commercial Insurance with a practical understanding of various commercial lines of business and specialty markets.
- Sales and Service Excellence:
- Proven ability to deliver both strong sales results and outstanding customer service.
- Experience with Applied Epic and Applied Rating Services is an asset.
- Interpersonal and Communication Skills:
- Professional and effective communication across all platforms including in-person, phone and email interactions.
- Natural aptitude for building genuine and lasting relationships with clients.
- Problem-Solving and Adaptability:
- Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate challenges and adapt to changing circumstances.
- A proactive and inquisitive mindset, demonstrated by a willingness to ask questions and learn.
- Motivation and Drive:
- High level of self-motivation, coupled with a strong commitment to prospecting for new business opportunities.
- A passion for helping people, engaging with the community and achieving success.
- Organizational Skills:
- Experience managing a book of business or related work experience with a knack for multitasking and attention to detail.
Work Hours and Location
- Hours: Full-time (37.5 hours per week)
- Location: Grande Prairie, Alberta
- Requisition Number: #81248
Encouragement for Diverse Applicants
We value diverse perspectives and experiences. If you’re enthusiastic about this role but do not meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply. You may be the ideal candidate for this position or another opportunity within our organization.
At Western Financial Group, we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and welcoming workplace that reflects the communities we serve. If you require accommodation during the hiring process, please reach out to us.
Employee Benefits: Health and Wellness
At Western, our people are our greatest asset and we take pride in offering programs that enhance their lives. Eligible employees benefit from a comprehensive compensation package, including:
- Vacation and Wellness:
- 3 weeks of vacation
- 14 wellness days per year
- Financial Benefits:
- Company-matching investment and savings programs
- Health Coverage:
- 100% employer-paid group benefits
- A healthcare spending account to cover additional medical expenses
Commitment to Community
For over two decades, Western Financial Group has been dedicated to supporting local communities. This commitment is a cornerstone of our culture and is brought to life through the Western Financial Group Communities Foundation. By contributing to initiatives that uplift our communities, we strive to make a positive impact where we live and work.
By joining Western Financial Group as an Insurance Sales Producer, you become part of a team that prioritizes truthfulness, fairness, value and loyalty in all interactions. This role offers a rewarding opportunity to grow professionally, contribute to your community and deliver exceptional service to your clients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Western Financial Group
- When was Western Financial Group established?
Western Financial Group was founded in 1995 and has grown to become one of Canada’s largest insurance brokerages.
- Who owns Western Financial Group?
Western Financial Group is owned by Trimont Financial, a subsidiary of The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company which acquired the company in 2017.
- What types of insurance does Western Financial Group offer?
Western Financial Group offers a wide range of insurance products including auto, home, business, farm and life insurance, as well as specialty coverage tailored to individual needs.
- Where is Western Financial Group headquartered?
The company is headquartered in High River, Alberta, Canada.
- How many locations does Western Financial Group have?
The company operates over 220 branches across Canada, providing insurance solutions nationwide.
- Who is the CEO of Western Financial Group?
As of January 2024, the CEO of Western Financial Group is Kenny Nicholls.
- What is the company’s commitment to community development?
Western Financial Group is deeply committed to community support through initiatives like the Western Financial Group Communities Foundation which funds local projects and causes.
- Does Western Financial Group offer career opportunities?
Yes, Western Financial Group offers various career opportunities including roles in sales, customer service and leadership, across its branches and headquarters.
- What benefits do employees of Western Financial Group receive?
Eligible employees enjoy comprehensive benefits including 100% employer-paid health coverage, a health care spending account, wellness days, investment and savings programs and three weeks of vacation.
- How can customers contact Western Financial Group?
Customers can reach Western Financial Group through their website, by phone or by visiting one of their local branches. Specific contact information is available on the company’s official website.