The Insurance Institute of Canada (IIC) has elected Stéphane Lespérance as chair of its board of governors during the organization's 72nd annual general meeting, held on Oct. 28.
Lespérance (pictured), who serves as president of Aon Canada and is based in Montréal, succeeds James Russell, president and CEO of TD Insurance.
As the premier professional education body for Canada’s property and casualty insurance industry, the IIC plays a central role in setting educational and professional standards through its Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) and Fellow Chartered Insurance Professional (FCIP) programs. These designations are recognized both nationally and internationally as benchmarks of professional achievement in the sector.
Lespérance said the Institute continues to be an essential partner to the insurance industry, supporting the development of skilled professionals who help drive its growth and resilience. He emphasized that education remains at the core of ensuring the industry has the talent and leadership needed to adapt to change and serve policyholders effectively.
Peter Hohman, president and CEO of the IIC, noted that the Institute benefits from the guidance of board leaders who reflect Canada’s property and casualty landscape from coast to coast. He said the organization’s programs provide insurance professionals with the critical thinking and technical knowledge required to navigate an increasingly complex risk environment.
Alongside Lespérance’s appointment, the IIC announced its new executive committee for 2025–2026.
London Bradley, president and CEO of Allstate Insurance Company of Canada, was named deputy chair, while Barbara Bellissimo, president and CEO of HSB Canada, will serve as vice chair, membership-at-large. James Russell will continue to contribute as immediate past chair.
The board also includes regional and divisional vice chairs representing the western provinces, Ontario, Québec, Atlantic Canada, academia, and the professional community, reflecting the Institute’s nationwide reach and industry-wide collaboration.
Lespérance’s appointment highlights the Institute’s ongoing commitment to advancing education and professionalism within Canada’s insurance industry, ensuring it continues to meet the demands of a fast-evolving marketplace.
