This week we’re learning more about Chris Gory at Orchard Benefits
What is your name?
Chris Gory
What is the name of your firm?
Where in Canada are you based?
Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Yukon, and Northwest Territories.
What does Orchard Benefits specialize in?
Employee benefits for tech companies of all sizes
Please introduce yourself in 10 words or less.
An insurtech nerd who loves working with tech.
How did you get started in the group business?
Stumbled into it. I was working at my ex-wife’s P&C brokerage and in 2006 I had my life license for 5 years and when our last life/benefits salesperson left, I thought that I would start in benefits. Two years later, I wrote my first tech company (still a client to this day) and things have gone well since then.
How long have you been an advisor?
Licensed – 22 years. In benefits – 17 years. Working with mainly tech companies – 15 years.
Share with us a particular moment that made you proud to be an advisor.
Hmm…good question. I guess that I have to think about on the sad occasion that I have to deliver a life insurance beneficiary cheque. Even with the majority of tech staff being young, I have had several death claims. One that comes to mind is a 31 year old co founder who died in his sleep. While he was born and raised in Canada, his wife was not, and after his passing, was struggling – in all aspects. When I was able to meet with her and deliver the cheque to her and her family member who was translating – just seeing the relief that it brought is something I will not forget.
What was your main reason for wanting to join BA?
Advocacy. I always say that employee benefits are treated as the red-headed child of the insurance industry – we don’t have a group that lobbies for us, we don’t have a group who advocate on our behalf, we don’t have a group who solely focus on benefits. The BA is the one association that fills some or most of those voids.
What excites you most about your new BA membership?
Advocacy & education.
What are your goals for the next year?
Like anyone else – grow the business. But also learn from industry experts, and to help the BA with my knowledge (OK – mainly tech knowledge).
What is your favourite part of your job?
Helping clients
What career advice would you give to your younger self?
Haha. Don’t spend so much time trying to partner with a P&C brokerage – it’s not the holy grail of benefits leads
What is a recent book or movie that you would recommend?
This will speak to Carolyne and her love of the 80’s – a book by Richard Blade called World In My Eyes. When I read, I want something light and relaxing.
What is your favourite thing to do on the weekend?