News Releases

May 13, 2016

Manitoba’s new government has made new appointments to the board of Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI), Crown Services Minister Ron Schuler announced today. 

“We are proud to assemble a team of experienced community and business leaders who will bring valuable knowledge and leadership of Manitoba Public Insurance, providing exceptional service while ensuring Manitobans have access to affordable auto insurance rates,” said Schuler.  “This team’s combined knowledge in both the small- and large-business sectors will be an asset as MPI carries out its mandate.” 

The MPI board of directors ensures the corporation operates within its guideline and legislation that protects all Manitobans.  The new chair of the board is Brent VanKoughnet.  New directors are Valerie Wowryk, Dan Bubis, Domenic Grestoni, Edna Nabess, Jeff Wharton and Richard Chale.

• VanKoughnet has more than 25 years of experience in the agriculture industry as the owner and manager of Agri Skills Inc.  His expertise includes customer service, management, consulting services, organizational team building, strategic planning and conflict resolution.  VanKoughnet holds a master’s degree in agricultural economics, a bachelor of science in agriculture, a professional agrologist designation, and a certificate in mediation and conflict resolution.
• Wowryk is a chartered financial analyst and is a past president of the CFA Winnipeg, the local society of chartered financial analysts.  She is a director and portfolio manager with Richardson GMP and has more than 30 years of experience in providing customized portfolio management, oversight and guidance to a diverse client base.
• Bubis is the president, chief investment officer and founder of Tetrem Capital Management.  Prior to founding Tetrem in 2004, Bubis was the chief investment officer at Assante Asset Management Ltd., where he oversaw all investment management function.  He holds an honours business administration degree from the University of Western Ontario and holds a chartered financial analyst designation.
• Grestoni retired from Investors Group Inc. in June 2014, where he spent close to 40 years in various positions including audit operations, cash management, treasury operations and investment and portfolio management.  He holds a CGA, CPA and a business administration degree from Red River College. 
• Nabess is a community and business leader, proud mother and grandmother.  She has built up two local businesses, one located in The Pas and the other in Winnipeg, specializing in moccasins, clothing, jewelry and ornaments.  Nabess is a member of the Mathias Colomb Cree Nation and a mentor to other women in her community, passing on her traditional skills and knowledge.
• Wharton is an entrepreneur, community leader and long-time resident of Winnipeg Beach.  Wharton has an extensive business background, most recently as the president and CEO of
  J Wharton Moving Consultants Ltd. and owner of Globe Moving and Storage Ltd.  He has served on various boards and was a councillor and deputy mayor for the town of Winnipeg Beach.  He was elected as the MLA for Gimli on April 19.
• Richard Chale recently retired after a 38-year career on the executive team at FWS group of companies.  For the last 17 years, he was its president and CEO.  Chale is credited with growing FWS into a company known for high standards of corporate ethics and a very progressive employee/employer program. 

“I look forward to working with this experienced and diverse team and I thank the previous board members for their service,” Schuler said. 

- 30 -