Gary Downes
Saskatoon,SK
Summary
Results driven Senior Insurance Broker with a proven track record at Westland Insurance, excelling in driving strong growth through networking and referral partnerships. Achieved high client retention rate by delivering tailored insurance solutions and fostering strong relationships through excellent communication. Customer-focused salesperson with team-oriented mindset and comprehensive consumer need assessment. Highly motivated and adept at navigating complex insurance products to enhance client satisfaction. Supportive listener and ability to engage with customer empathy throughout the claims process.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Insurance Broker
Westland Insurance (Formally Known as AGI Insurance)
Saskatoon, SK
03.2014 - 04.2025
- Assisted clients in understanding insurance products and services.
- Supported the processing of policy applications and renewals.
- Maintained thorough knowledge of insurance products, staying up-to-date on changes that could impact clients or business operations.
- Developed strong relationships with insurance carriers, allowing for more efficient claim resolution processes.
- Increased client satisfaction by providing personalized insurance solutions tailored to individual needs.
- Assisted clients with claims processing, ensuring a smooth experience during difficult times.
- Achieved high customer retention rates (91%) by maintaining open communication channels and addressing concerns promptly.
- Organized regular check-ins with clients to review coverage limits and ensure adequate protection as their life circumstances changed.
- Met with prospective customers and business owners in homes, businesses, and other settings.
- Expanded the company''s client base through effective networking and relationship-building strategies.
- Maintained high standards of customer service by building relationships with clients.
Business Development Executive
ACT Conferencing
London (UK)
08.2008 - 06.2011
- Developed strategic partnerships to enhance market presence and drive revenue growth.
- Conducted market analysis to identify new business opportunities and target audiences.
- Led presentations and negotiations with potential clients, securing long-term contracts.
- Created compelling proposals that demonstrated the unique value of our products/services while addressing client needs and expectations.
- Identified new business opportunities through cold calling, networking, marketing and prospective database leads.
Mortgage Underwriter
GD Capital Limited
Southampton (UK)
06.2006 - 07.2008
- Evaluated loan applications to determine risk and eligibility for mortgage financing.
- Analyzed credit reports, financial statements, and property appraisals to assess borrower qualifications.
- Collaborated with loan officers to clarify application details and resolve discrepancies.
- Implemented underwriting guidelines to ensure compliance with company policies and regulations.
Education
No Degree - Science, Geography, Math, English & Graphics
Ringwood Comprehensive
Ringwood, Hampshire (UK)06-1994
Skills
- Proactive team player
- Claims handling
- Highly Driven and Motivated
- Top-rated sales performance
- Excellent communication skills
- Customer follow-up
- Lead development
- Commercial insurance
- Property and casualty products
- Complaint handling and resolution
- Commission-based sales experience
Accomplishments
- Ranked 13th Out of 475 Insurance Brokers in Saskatoon (Star of Service) https://www.starofservice.ca/dir/saskatchewan/saskatoon/saskatoon/insurance-brokerage ·
- Feb 2025 Featured in Pulse Magazine - 5 Star Spotlight Issued by Westland Insurance · Aug 2024
- Saskatoon's Best Insurance Broker - 2019 Issued by Boston Pizza's Best of Saskatoon · Jan 2020
- Nominated 3 Years in a Row for Saskatoon's Best Insurance Broker (Top 3 Finishes) Issued by Planet S Mag · Jan 2017 to Jan 2020
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Certification
- CAIB Level One Insurance Licensee
- CAIB Level II Insurance Licensee
- SGI Canada Commercial Lines Academy
Timeline
Senior Insurance Broker
Westland Insurance (Formally Known as AGI Insurance)
03.2014 - 04.2025
Business Development Executive
ACT Conferencing
08.2008 - 06.2011
Mortgage Underwriter
GD Capital Limited
06.2006 - 07.2008
No Degree - Science, Geography, Math, English & Graphics
Ringwood Comprehensive