2025 Underwriters of the Year | Laura Stanley, Senior Commercial Lines Underwriter, Portage Mutual Insurance

She first joined insurance in 1998 in an administrative data entry role at Portage Mutual, where she has steadily progressed into increasingly complex underwriting responsibilities, moving from a property underwriting role into her current role as a Senior Commercial Lines Underwriter.

Stanley holds a Diploma in Office Administration – Executive (Co-op) from Niagara College and has earned her CIP, FCIP, and CRM designations.

Outside of work, Stanley enjoys camping, hiking, gardening, and spending time with her husband of 23 years, Dean, and their two daughters.

Stanley says she is “deeply honoured” to be recognized by Mackay Insurance Brokers, a member of the Canadian Broker Network, Canada’s largest network of independent brokers. “I strive to have great relationships with my brokers and support them whenever needed. It’s very meaningful to know this work doesn’t go unnoticed.”

Q: What’s key to a great working relationship between underwriter and broker, and why is this more important than ever?


“Mutual trust and respect. In a world of emails, picking up the phone and having a real conversation still goes a long way. Working to create relationships and visiting brokers when possible builds that connection.”

Q: Why did you become an underwriter, and what do you love most about your role?


“After starting at Portage Mutual doing data entry, I worked in property underwriting for a couple of years before moving into commercial lines. What I love is how dynamic it is, from quoting business and issuing files, to training and marketing our products through broker visits. There’s so much opportunity in this industry. Not many industries offer this.”

Q: What’s the biggest challenge for underwriters today, and how can they overcome it?

“Meeting the high expectations of insureds. With technology making everything instantly available, people want instant quotes and answers on their terms. Combine that with market swings, and it takes real communication and adaptability to keep pace.”

Q: What’s one opportunity underwriters should focus more on in today’s market?

“Improving customer service. That’s the key to strengthening relationships with broker partners.”

Q: Given that talent shortages remain a challenge, what would you say to encourage more people to join the insurance industry?


“A lot of people don’t realize how many opportunities exist in this industry. Insurance protects people and their assets — it’s essential. And even as technology changes, there are still so many career paths and growth opportunities.”

Q: How do you see AI and technology impacting underwriting?


“AI may improve some processes, but not everything can be automated. Files still need human oversight to make sure they fit. These tools will help with underwriting efficiency and open the door for even more growth.”

Q: What skills are needed for underwriting leadership?

“Strong communication is essential. It’s also important to build a career pathway, upgrade your skills, and take courses through the Insurance Institute.”

Q: Canada continues to suffer pressures like natural catastrophes, auto theft, fraud, and tariff impacts. How can brokers and underwriters better collaborate to help Canadian consumers manage risk?


“Focusing on better communication and data sharing is key. We need to educate consumers about their coverage and why it matters, and work together to create incentives when clients take steps to reduce risk.”

The Canadian Broker Network Underwriter of the Year awards is a flagship program that CBN has been running on behalf of its members for over a decade. The program is exclusive to CBN in partnership with Canadian Underwriter magazine. The categories allow for each of our member firms, at their option, to select one commercial lines underwriter winner and one personal lines underwriter winner from a primary market, as well as a commercial underwriter from an MGA. The criteria includes underwriting excellence and risk knowledge; prompt and effective responsiveness back to CBN members; writing business that satisfies clients’ needs while creating a win-win for the broker and the insurer; a positive, helpful attitude; and investing time to develop trusting relationships with brokers.

Full list of 2025 Underwriter of the Year Award Recipients