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Author Archives: Sandra Fournou

  1. EgR formalizes its new co-presidency and strengthens governance to support its growth

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    Bruno Castonguay and Marc-Antoine Roux, co-president of EgR - Insurance strategists

    EgR, an independent insurance brokerage firm specializing in commercial property & casualty, surety, and advisory services, today marks an important governance transition taking effect October 1, 2025. Current Co-Presidents, Simon Marchand-Fortier and Richard Drouin, are passing the torch to a new generation of leaders while remaining actively involved as strategic advisors to the organization.

    A Decade of Success and a Planned Transition

    Since its founding in 2015, EgR has become a key player in Quebec’s brokerage industry by fostering collaboration, building close client relationships, and valuing its employees as its greatest asset. Through sustained yet organic growth, the firm has preserved its family-oriented culture while developing recognized expertise. Today, EgR manages more than CAD 380M in annual premiums and brings together over 220 professionals.

    “We are proud to hand over leadership to a strong, committed team that embodies our vision. This transition reflects perfect alignment with our values of collaboration, succession, and long-term sustainability,” said Simon Marchand-Fortier and Richard Drouin.

    A New Generation Leading EgR

    As part of this transition, EgR also announces the following appointments:

    • Philippe Bureau, Vice President, will now lead the Centre-du-Québec region.
    • Marc-André Laflamme, Vice President, has been appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO).
    • Marc-Antoine Roux and Bruno Castonguay become the new Co-Presidents of EgR.
    Marc-André Laflamme, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) Philippe Bureau, Vice President, Centre-du-Québec region. Marc-Antoine Roux and Bruno Castonguay, Co-Presidents of EgR

    Continuity and Ambition

    “With humility and enthusiasm, we begin this new chapter with a firm commitment to pursuing EgR’s development while staying true to what defines our strength: a mobilized team, a strong entrepreneurial culture, and long-term relationships with our clients and partners,” said Marc-Antoine Roux and Bruno Castonguay.

    Remaining true to its mission, EgR will continue to serve mid-sized and large enterprises while supporting organizations with more complex risk profiles. The firm’s ability to deliver customized, innovative insurance solutions—combined with the proximity and agility of a human-scale organization—remains at the core of its business model.

    About EgR

    EgR is an independent insurance brokerage firm specializing in commercial property & casualty, surety, and advisory services. With a presence in the Canadian brokerage ecosystem, EgR stands out for its client proximity, entrepreneurial culture, and locally owned model, while supporting organizations with complex and international risk profiles.

  2. Import-Export: key points on customs duties and financial guarantees

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    In a business environment where unpredictability remains the norm, customs tariffs continue to represent a key issue for organizations. These taxes, levied by governments on goods from abroad, are similar to the sales tax applied to in-store purchases: any item imported into Canada may be subject to duties or taxes.

    Imports

    As of May 20, 2025, any company wishing to take advantage of the Release Prior to Payment (RPP) program – a mechanism facilitating the entry of goods into Canada – will have to deposit its own financial guarantee in the Contribution and Revenue Management System (CARM).

    Two options are available:

    1. Written electronic guarantee agreement (customs bond).

    2.Electronic cash deposit.

    The use of a published financial guarantee by a customs broker will no longer be permitted.

    Financial guarantee: challenges and solutions

    Setting up a customs bond ensures payment of import duties, taxes and other charges, while keeping day-to-day operations running smoothly. Further information is available at Cautionnement-qc@egr.ca.

    About EgR

    EgR is a P&C insurance, risk management and surety brokerage firm recognized for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. Present in Quebec and active across Canada and internationally, EgR helps companies protect their assets and optimize their business and insurance strategies.

  3. EgR Welcomes Véronick Marcotte as Senior Director of the Montreal Office

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    Véronick Marcotte, Senior Director of the Montreal Office - EgR, insurance startegists

    EgR is proud to announce the appointment of Véronick Marcotte as Senior Director, west region. With over 20 years of experience in risk management, insurance, and business development, Véronick joins our team to strengthen EgR’s presence in the Greater Montreal area and support our growth.

    A Rich Career and Recognized Expertise

    Before joining EgR, Véronick held leadership positions at prominent companies. She served as Managing Director and Senior Vice President at Marsh Canada, where she developed deep expertise in risk management and creating innovative solutions for businesses. Her career also includes strategic roles at Tembec Industries and Cadim, where she played a key role in implementing successful business strategies.

    Recognized for her inspiring leadership, cutting-edge expertise, ability to mobilize teams, and commitment to excellence, Véronick is a key figure in the industry. Her arrival at EgR aligns with our strategy to acquire and develop talent, strengthening our expertise for the benefit of our clients.

    A Nomination Aligned with EgR’s Vision

    Richard Drouin and Simon Marchand-Fortin, Co-Presidents of EgR, are excited about this bold acquisition:

    “The arrival of Véronick Marcotte marks a new milestone in the development of EgR and the Greater Montreal area. Her dynamism, expertise, and collaborative and strategic approach are perfectly aligned with our company culture and our commitment to our clients. We are confident that she will propel our Montreal office to new heights.”

    This appointment is part of our growth and organizational evolution that began in 2024. Bruno Castonguay, who previously held this position and is now Vice President, adds:

    “After leading the Montreal office for 7 years, I am thrilled to pass the baton to Véronick and look forward to collaborating closely with her to take the next steps in our growth. Her leadership and strategic vision are invaluable assets for our organization and the realization of our ambitions.”

    In Position Since January 20, 2025

    Véronick Marcotte officially took office on January 20, 2025, and is highly motivated to contribute to EgR’s development and work with her new team:

    “I couldn’t be more motivated for this next step in my career. I am joining a true industry leader and am honored to be part of an agile and promising organization like EgR, which is known for its excellence, strong growth, deep values, and a human-centered approach. Working in such a collaborative environment, surrounded by highly skilled, passionate, and caring individuals, was essential for me in continuing my career. I look forward to putting my expertise at the service of our clients and contributing to the growth and innovation of a company with an excellent reputation in the industry.”

    The entire EgR team welcomes her and wishes her great success in her new role!

    About EgR

    EgR is a key player in business insurance brokerage and risk management, known for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence. With a strong presence in Quebec and a team of passionate experts, EgR supports businesses in their growth, the protection of their assets, and the optimization of their business and insurance strategies.

  4. Philippe Bureau appointed to the position of Senior Manager – Indemnity and Shareholder of EgR

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    Philippe Bureau, expert en gestion des sinistres, devient Directeur principal - Indemnisation et actionnaire EgR

    Richard Drouin and Simon Marchand-Fortier, co-presidents of EgR, are proud to announce the appointement of Philippe Bureau as Senior Manager – Indemnity.

    This appointment is an important step in EgR’s growth and aligns with its commitment to provide high level value-added services to its clients.  Philippe will begin his new role on October 11th, and will work closely with Olivier Labrecque, Claims Manager.

    Philippe compliments perfectly with our desire to support growth and to continuously integrate new talents that fit with our approach and core values.

    says Richard Drouin.

    He has a very strong professional background. We are fully confident in his ability to take our claims department to the next level

    adds Simon Marchand-Fortier

    Mr. Bureau has extensive experience in claims management. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law, and served as a claims adjuster at Déry Barrette for more than ten years as well as President and shareholder of the firm until his departure. Philippe is leaving this position to join EgR as Senior Manager – Indemnity and Account Manager, as well as becoming a shareholder.

    After several years at Déry Barrette, it was time for me to take on a new challenge. EgR’s expertise is impressive and I immediately appreciated the spirit of collaboration. Together we will be able to go even further, and I am very happy to embark on this project today

    concludes Philippe Bureau

    About EgR :

    EgR is a commercial insurance brokerage firm specializing in medium and large businesses as well as surety bonds. It consists of 6 offices and nearly 190 employees. EgR’s specialized brokers address the multiple needs of its clientele across Canada. The team includes professionals dedicated to local and international risks, loss prevention specialists, lawyers and claims adjusters. With an estimated insurance premium volume of over $300 million, EgR is one of the largest brokerages in its field.