About Us

As one of the founding members of Purves Redmond Limited and Chair of PRL’s Board of Directors, Robert Purves works collaboratively with the Executive Chairman and the CEO to foster the Board and company’s culture and work. Robert also ensures the Board maintains focus on what is best for PRL by facilitating leadership and governance among its members. Robert served as the president of PRL’s predecessor firm, Robert Purves Limited, from 1979 to 2003, when Peter Redmond joined the firm as a full partner. Robert has an accounting background with an industry focus on casualty, marine, surety and management liability, and is experienced in alternative risk transfer and claims management. He has sat on the board of many firms and organizations within the insurance industry and the not-for-profit sector.

As Executive Chair of Purves Redmond Limited and co-founding member, Peter Redmond guides PRL’s vision and strategic direction. In his role, Peter exemplifies and sets the company’s culture, values and behaviour in addition to providing counsel, direction and support to PRL’s leadership team. Having spent more than 30 years working in the industry, Peter’s primary focus has been on the design and administration of property and casualty insurance programs for mid- to large-size national and multinational corporations. He has considerable experience with complex risks and global programs. Peter is well regarded in the risk management and insurance community and maintains a strong network of industry decision-makers. He actively leverages this network to the benefit of PRL’s clients.

As President and Chief Executive Officer, Richard Doherty is responsible for developing and executing PRL’s corporate strategy. Richard leads PRL’s Executive Team in designing innovative, client-focused insurance solutions and strengthening the organization’s culture through the recruitment and development of top talent. With over 25 years of insurance industry experience, Richard has cultivated deep expertise in risk management, operational leadership, and specialized insurance practices, including oversight of aviation-related accounts and other complex portfolios. His diverse background, which includes roles on both the client and brokerage sides, equips him with a unique perspective to drive PRL’s growth and innovation.Richard holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto and an MBA from Queen’s University.

As Head of Human Resources, Jasmine Ariss leads the development and implementation of HR strategies that align with the company’s objectives and foster a strong organizational culture. With over 15 years of experience in human resources within the wealth management industry, she has consistently delivered comprehensive HR solutions to optimize people management and organizational development. Prior to joining PRL in September 2024, Jasmine served as Vice President, People Experience & Talent at a leading wealth management firm, where she was known for cultivating deep relationships and aligning HR strategies with business goals. She holds a certification in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in the Workplace, reflecting her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. Originally from Montréal and now based in Toronto, Jasmine is a bilingual professional dedicated to empowering individuals and driving organizational success.

As General Counsel, Shani Briffa oversees PRL’s legal, compliance, risk, corporate secretariat and government relations functions. Before joining PRL Shani was the Assistant General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer and Director of Government Relations at a large international insurance brokerage. Prior to that she was an associate lawyer with an international insurance law firm, where her practice focused on advising insurers and reinsurers on coverage matters, representing them in coverage disputes, and serving as claims monitoring counsel. Shani also sits on the Executive Committee of the Toronto Insurance Council and the Board of the Butterfly Foundation.

As Head of Finance, Kenneth Fridman is responsible for overseeing financial operations, reporting, and budgeting. With over 25 years of experience in finance and leadership across technology, financial services, and operations, he has a proven record of driving efficiency and supporting growth. Kenneth’s career highlights include leading financial controls, treasury, tax, and accounting as a Vice President of Finance. He has directed due diligence for strategic transactions, contributed to ESG initiatives, and implemented financial systems that enhanced reporting accuracy. His expertise extends to mergers and acquisitions, strategic partnerships, and entrepreneurial ventures, including co-founding a technology company where he secured seed funding and drove growth. Kenneth holds an MBA from the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management, graduating with Dean’s List honours and multiple academic distinctions.

As Head of Broking Operations, Laura Gallo is responsible for ensuring PRL delivers a seamless and consistent customer experience and develop operational efficiencies across all our offices and business units. In her role, Laura is focused on optimizing the use of technology, processes, and best practices to ensure client service expectations are met and exceeded. Laura also has leadership over PRL’s Private Client group, overseeing client service and driving new growth opportunities within her team. In addition, Laura leads PRL’s insurer relationships, including contracts—working with insurer partners to stay up to date on emerging products and services, and generating new ideas to better serve clients. With over 25 years of experience in the Canadian Property & Casualty Insurance industry, Laura draws on her comprehensive background to advise and develop insurance solutions for her clients unique and complex needs.

As COO, Adrian Vanelli is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operational and administrative functions of PRL, implementing the business plans set by PRL’s CEO and Board of Directors. Adrian also leads PRL’s strategic initiatives, responsible for developing and executing on PRL’s strategic plan in collaboration with the Board of Directors and Leadership Team. Adrian is focused on identifying key opportunities for further expansion and value creation, including key capital projects, joint ventures, potential mergers & acquisitions, and other strategic partnership opportunities. In addition, Adrian maintains management oversight of PRL’s specialty practice areas, including its Surety business. Adrian also advises a portfolio of clients with commodity and construction-related exposures. Prior to joining PRL, Adrian gained experience in corporate finance, strategic planning, and underwriting with large multi-national insurance carriers. Adrian holds the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designations.

As Calgary Office Leader, Emi Adachi brings more than 26 years of broking and risk management experience. She specializes in financial and executive risks, particularly Directors & Officers liability in the oil, gas, and pipeline sectors. Emi began her career as a claims manager for Alberta and Saskatchewan’s real estate industry program and later became a facilitator for the Institute of Corporate Directors’ education program. A graduate of McGill University with a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance, Emi holds CRM and FCIP designations and is licensed across multiple provinces, including Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and the Yukon.

As Leader of Private Client Services, Lucy brings more than 30 years of experience delivering comprehensive personal insurance solutions for high-net-worth individuals and families. She takes a consultative approach to risk management, offering proactive guidance and responsive service tailored to evolving lifestyles and complex asset portfolios. With a strong commitment to integrity and long-term relationships, Lucy is dedicated to providing exceptional service in a continually changing insurance landscape.

As National Risk Management Leader and Power & Nuclear Leader, Katherine Dawal brings more than 15 years of experience in enterprise risk, insurance strategy, and operational risk management across capital-intensive industries. She has developed and implemented enterprise-wide risk frameworks, integrated risk functions into business operations, and advised senior leadership on governance and risk optimization.

Katherine is also active in the risk community as President of the Saskatchewan Chapter of the Risk and Insurance Management Society (SKRIMS), where she has led award-winning initiatives to advance collaboration and professional development. In 2020, she was recognized nationally with the RIMS Rising Star Award for her leadership and contributions to the field. Katherine holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Finance from the University of Saskatchewan. She is a Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP), a Canadian Risk Management (CRM) designation holder, and a RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP).

As National Transportation Practice Leader, Avi Goldberg advises clients across the transportation, waste, and recycling sectors. He has more than 30 years of insurance experience, with the past 15 focused on transportation and logistics accounts ranging from regional fleets to national operators with thousands of power units. Avi began his career as a general underwriter before specializing in transportation, managing complex programs including captives, deductible structures, and municipal fleets. Since joining PRL in 2021, he has combined technical expertise with practical insight to help clients anticipate and manage emerging risks in the sector.

As Eastern Region FINEX Leader, Rob Hanson oversees PRL’s financial lines portfolio in Eastern Canada, helping clients navigate the complexities of executive risk insurance. With more than 15 years of experience, Rob began his career underwriting and managing Directors & Officers Liability programs at a global insurer, primarily serving the mining sector. He later moved into senior advisory roles at a multinational brokerage, specializing in large, complex D&O programs. A Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder, Rob combines technical expertise with practical insight to help Canadian companies and their leaders manage evolving financial risks.

As Eastern Region and National Aerospace Practice Leader, Alina Kanadjian develops and executes risk management strategies and insurance programs for PRL clients, with a particular focus on aviation solutions. Based in Montreal, she brings more than two decades of experience, including her role as Risk and Insurance Manager at a multinational company, where she managed complex insurance programs for a fleet of over 200 aircraft and supported M&A and defence initiatives. At PRL, Alina advises clients on aviation risks ranging from drones to fixed- and rotor-wing operations, leveraging her deep expertise to deliver tailored solutions for large and complex organizations.

As Principal Broker, Deborah Laferriere draws on more than 35 years of experience in the Canadian insurance industry. A Fellow Chartered Insurance Professional (FCIP), she has also held leadership roles as Past President of the Toronto Insurance Council and as a Director of the Insurance Brokers Association of Canada. Deborah is licensed as a Special Broker in several provinces and is actively engaged in advancing professional standards across the industry.

As National Leader, Teresa Martin is responsible for the day-to-day business direction and management of the General Industries unit across Canada. In this role, Teresa is responsible for overseeing brokerage operations, client advocacy, and the delivery of tailored solutions across a wide range of industries. With over 20 years of experience in risk management consultation, strategy development, and risk financing program design, Teresa brings a wealth of expertise to her role. She has extensive experience coordinating loss control, claims management, and service delivery for national operators, start-ups, and organizations across diverse sectors.Teresa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Western Ontario and has earned her Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP), Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB), and Canadian Risk Management (CRM) designations.

As Surety Practice Leader, Matt Newman manages PRL’s surety portfolio, ensuring clients receive expert guidance and seamless execution on transactional and service needs. He has more than 15 years of experience as both a surety underwriter and broker, including senior roles developing bond solutions and managing portfolios with a leading Canadian surety company. Matt’s background includes creating bond forms accepted by major beneficiaries such as Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Hydro One. He works with clients across industries — from junior miners to investment-grade companies — to deliver innovative and reliable surety solutions.

As Professional Services Practice Leader, Candace Pietras leads PRL’s work with law firms, design professionals, and insurance brokers, developing bespoke professional liability and related insurance programs. With more than 25 years of experience, she began her career as a risk control engineer before moving into broking, where she has supported global clients in energy, real estate, retail, communications, and manufacturing. For the past 15 years, Candace has specialized in professional clients, offering services that include risk management education, contract analysis, and policy wording development. She holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical) from McGill University along with CRA, CRIS, and CRM designations.

As Executive Vice President and Western Canada Leader, Najeeb Sachedina oversees client service and manages a team of insurance professionals, ensuring service expectations are met while fostering a highly functioning team environment. 

As National Leader, Najeeb Sachedina is also responsible for the day-to-day business direction and management of the Mining and Energy & Construction units across Canada. His commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration ensures PRL remains a trusted partner in addressing the complex needs of Canada’s resource-driven industries. With over 18 years of experience, he specializes in designing and implementing large risk management programs for national and multinational corporations, utilizing both traditional and non-traditional methods. Najeeb graduated from McMaster University and is currently based in Vancouver, Canada.

As Western Canada Business Development Leader for Mining & Energy, Ron Schmid brings over 28 years of insurance experience. A graduate in Mineral Engineering from the University of Alberta, Ron has built a career serving natural resource clients with complex risk profiles. He has managed clients and projects across Canada and internationally, including large-scale mines and infrastructure in remote and challenging environments. Known for his technical expertise and client-first approach, Ron strengthens PRL’s ability to serve mining and energy companies across the West.

As Practice Leader for Western Canada, Raymond Sieh oversees PRL’s professional and management liability portfolio, advising clients across a wide range of sectors. With 28 years of global insurance and reinsurance experience, including 16 focused on financial lines, Raymond specializes in Directors & Officers, professional liability, cyber, and transactional risk solutions. Prior to joining PRL, he held senior leadership roles in Canada, Asia, and Europe, including as Vice President at a global brokerage. Based in Vancouver, Raymond brings both international perspective and deep technical expertise, holding an MBA, the RPLU+ and CPLP designations, and the CAIB accreditation.

As National Leader, Group Benefits & Retirement Services, Henry Toby is responsible for the day-to-day business direction and management of the Employee Benefits and Retirement practice. In this capacity, Henry oversees a team of talented technical professionals who are focused on delivering customized program design and exceptional service to PRL’s clients. With over 30 years of client consulting and organizational leadership experience, Henry’s detailed understanding of employer and employee needs coupled with his extensive industry knowledge and expertise ensures that PRL clients are well supported when delivering on their Human Resources strategies.

As Head of Compliance, Veronica Walpole brings 40 years of insurance industry expertise, including more than 20 years specializing in compliance. She previously served as Chief Compliance Officer at a global brokerage and is both a Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) and Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker (CAIB). Veronica is also qualified by Ontario’s regulator (RIBO) as a Principal Broker, ensuring PRL’s operations meet the highest regulatory and ethical standards.

As National Leader, Bradley Wells is responsible for day-to-day business direction and management of the Transportation, and the Waste & Recycling units across Canada. Bradley and his team provide technical product expertise to the other PRL business units and PRL clients. Bradley manages a team of insurance professionals and is responsible for client service in specialty areas and for a number of select clients. Before attending law school, Bradley spent 10 years as an insurance broker at PRL and other firms, largely specializing in commercial lines and large insurance program placements. The beginning of his legal practice involved both Insurance Coverage work and general Corporate Litigation until 2010 when he narrowed his practice to focus solely on Insurance Coverage work. In 2017, Bradley returned to Purves Redmond Limited where he provides his extensive expertise and experience to clients.

As National Leader of PRL’s Construction Practice, Sebastian Zani advises clients on complex infrastructure and development projects across sectors. With a background in mechanical engineering, he began his career as a property underwriter specializing in construction, mining, and energy risks before moving into broking. Sebastian has worked extensively on large public-private partnerships (P3s) as well as construction all risks (CAR) and erection all risks (EAR) programs. Since joining PRL in 2019, he has supported both operational and project-related insurance placements. Fluent in Spanish and French, Sebastian is well-positioned to work with clients across the Americas.