Billyard Insurance Group (BIG), a leading Canadian Insurance Brokerage, proudly expands its Board of Directors with the addition of Greg Somerville. With a distinguished career in the insurance industry, Somerville’s expertise and strategic vision will further bolster BIG’s leadership, underscoring its commitment to pioneering innovation and reaching new heights of excellence in the sector.

Somerville brings over 40 years of expertise to the board, having built and scaled top brands in the insurance industry, beginning with State Farm and Liberty Mutual, before joining Aviva Canada in 1992. At Aviva, Somerville served on the Executive Committee and held key positions, including Executive Vice President of Claims and Reinsurance and later Executive Vice President of Broker Distribution. In 2013, Somerville became President and CEO, a position he held with distinction until 2018 when he transitioned to a non-executive director role. Under Somerville’s leadership, Aviva Canada insured over 3 million Canadians and wrote $5 billion in premiums annually, marking a period of significant growth and stability for the company.

Currently, Somerville sits on the Board of Directors for Travelers Insurance Company of Canada. He also serves as Chair of their Risk and Compensation Committee and participates in their Audit and Conduct Review Committees. Additionally, he is an Independent Non-Executive Director for both Travelers Insurance Company Limited and Travelers Syndicate Management Limited – further cementing his prominence within the industry.

“The addition of Greg Somerville to our Board of Directors is another great milestone for BIG. Greg’s extraordinary career brings further depth and experience to our Board that will help BIG maintain our position as a leader in the marketplace,” said Stephen Billyard, CEO of BIG. “I am confident his insights will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and revolutionize the Canadian insurance industry.”

“BIG is a dynamic and unique Canadian brokerage. I look forward to providing input and support to Stephen and his management team as they continue to deliver solutions to Canadian consumers and create value for the insurance markets they are proud to represent,” said Somerville.

“Greg’s ability to develop strong relationships within the Canadian insurance marketplace is unparalleled. Greg’s extensive experience and leadership will be a tremendous asset as we navigate the evolving landscape of the insurance industry,” said Cody Douma, COO of BIG.

Somerville joins fellow industry leaders Bob Tisdale and Neil Rudd on the board of directors, who joined in August and October of 2023. Like Tisdale and Rudd, Somerville brings extensive experience, leadership, and a profound understanding of the Canadian insurance landscape, which positions the firm to continue in its success.

About Billyard Insurance Group:

Billyard Insurance Group (BIG) is an award-winning brokerage headquartered in Welland, Ontario, Canada. With 86 branches spanning four provinces and partnerships with over 30 leading insurance providers, BIG is recognized among Canada’s fastest-growing companies and top insurance employers. BIG is at the forefront of the insurance industry, leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovation to empower its brokers and deliver exceptional service to clients. For more information about BIG and its comprehensive range of services, please visit thebig.ca.