About CRI Canada

Nicole Benson President CRI Canada

As President, Nicole manages and directs CRI Canada to meet operational goals. She has an extensive background in both insurance and technology, most recently as the General Manager for CRI Canada’s operations in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Ontario. Nicole holds Bachelor degrees from Australian Catholic University and from the University of Western Sydney.  Prior to joining CRI Canada, Nicole served as Director of Enterprise Solutions for EIS, Inc.

Wes Barlow Chief Technology Officer CRI Canada

As Chief Technology Officer, Wes will create and implement CRI Canada’s strategic vision for technology. He is a 28 year veteran of technology and has spent the last 6 years as COO of the AEGON Direct Marketing Services Atlanta Operations managing administrative support including IT, New Business, Customer Services, Billing/Settlement, and Claims. Wes has been with AEGON since 1993 and led the development of the company’s on-line lending platform, InterLend.

Anne Bjornson Claims Manager and Operations Manager CRI Canada

Claims Manager and Operations Manager, Anne Bjornson, is responsible for the operation of the claims department as well as the day-to-day activities of the CRI Canada Service Centre. She offers more than 25 years of life and disability claims experience. Since joining CRI Canada in 1995, Anne has been instrumental in setting up the claims, underwriting and mortgage administration areas as well as establishing policies and procedures to provide and maintain the highest level of service in the industry. Anne entered the insurance field in 1982, where she held various positions before specializing in claims. Anne has completed her International Claims Association education program, Life Office Management Association and Health Insurance Association of America in both Individual and Group Insurance. As a strong supporter of professional and personal development, Anne continues to participate in Claims and Underwriting continuing education, Insurance Industry studies and leadership development. 

Karen Wells Controller CRI Canada

Karen Wells has held the position of controller at CRI Canada since early 2003. In this capacity she is responsible for consolidating financials, negotiating contracts and managing expenses. Karen has more than 20 years' experience in the insurance industry. Prior to Karen's appointment with CRI Canada, she held the position of Controller for Academy Alliance, CRI Canada's Insurance agent in Alberta for 15 years. Karen has also held positions at Empire Financial Group and AIB Associated Insurance Brokers in Edmonton, Alberta. For both companies Karen administered insurance applications, developed proposals and was involved in the underwriting process. Karen is currently enrolled in the Certified General Accountant program through the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology and is on her way to completing her third level Life Office Management Association course. 

Leiha Fiddler Vice-President Program Management for CRI Canada

Leiha Fiddler is responsible for the overall program management for clients across Canada and manages the Account Executive team.  Her role helps provide continuity in the service provided across all markets.  Leiha has been a part of the financial industry for over 17 years.  Before joining CRI Canada in April 2004, Leiha worked for Westminster Savings Credit Union (Maple Ridge Credit Union) for 14 years and held a variety of positions in management and branch operations.  Leiha holds her life insurance license and has Achieve Global Certification in adult training techniques.  Through hands-on program management and the delivery of top-notch service and training, Leiha works with the CRI Canada team to ensure the needs of our clients and their members is always a top priority.

Marc Lalonde is an accomplished sales professional and brings with him over 15 years of financial industry experience. He has a solid lending and sales background, having worked for companies including National Money Mart, Easyhome and Wells Fargo Financial Corporation holding positions of Branch Manager, District Manager and Regional Manager with responsibilities for overall sales and operations as well as providing leadership to his sales teams. Marc attended Carleton University in Ottawa and currently holds his life insurance license and has Achieve Global Certification in adult training techniques. Marc resides in the Lower Mainland with his wife and three children.

Gary Olson is responsible for ensuring account and product profitability, preparing pricing on existing and new business, new product development, and new sales generation. With an extensive 19 year background in the financial services industry specifically life and health, and 11 of those years working within the credit union system, Gary holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree from University of Manitoba majoring in marketing and finance as well as a number of industry designations including Chartered Life Underwriters (CLU) and Chartered Financial Consultants (Ch.F.C.). Gary works closely with his CRI Canada colleagues to deliver innovative, competitive, market driven solutions to address credit union needs.