Insurance Brokers Association of Manitoba Appoints New CEO

WINNIPEG, Oct. 31, 2017 /insPRESS/ – Insurance Brokers Association of Manitoba (IBAM) Chairperson, Tara Chammartin, is pleased to announce the appointment of the association’s new CEO, Mr. Grant Wainikka, M.A. (Econ.), MBA, effective January 2, 2018. 

 

Wainikka is a proven and effective executive with over 20 years of progressively senior experience working in both the private and public sectors with a focus on government affairs, management, communications, marketing and strategic planning. 

 

Whether in an academic or professional environment, Wainikka has always been a high achiever. He has two Master’s degrees, a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Manitoba and a Master of Arts (Economics) from McGill University. Grant has been the recipient of several prestigious awards, such as the Certified General Accountants Association Award for highest cumulative grade point average in his MBA program and the Associates Award for outstanding academic performance in the Asper MBA Program.

 

Most recently Wainikka, taught as a Sessional Instructor at the Asper School of Business – University of Manitoba. During his tenure he has been awarded a variety of Marketing, Economics and General Business courses. He’s received several letters of commendation for outstanding teaching from Deans and Department Heads, and holds an extremely high rating with his students.

 

Previously, Grant spent 15 years working in the Manitoba telecommunications industry – starting as a Brand Manager at MTS and throughout the years and several promotions later made a move to Rogers Communications as Director of Marketing – Midwest Region. While in the industry, Grant gained experience in facilitating and developing the vision, mission, strategic plan, corporate priorities and business plan for a $2.1 billion dollar company. During his time in the industry Wainikka also displayed strong leadership skills, successfully managed capital & operational budgets, and facilitated consensus and action among different stakeholders across the company and in the community.

 

Earlier, Wainikka worked with the Government of Manitoba as a Special Assistant to the Minister of Education, Minister of Justice and Attorney General, the Minister of Culture Heritage and Citizenship, and the Minister Responsible for the Liquor Control Act. Wainikka’s deep experience in the public and private sectors has necessitated building relationships with civic and provincial leaders, private industries and community groups. These associations will be of great benefit to IBAM and its’ Membership.

Wainikka is married and his three children. 

 

“Grant Wainikka will bring a strong strategic insight to IBAM and its’ members. He has a track record of success, with the ability to execute collaboratively with decision makers and stakeholders. We look forward to Grant’s leadership and extensive management experience.” Stated by Tara Chammartin. “I am also thankful to the Executive Search Committee for their hard work and professionalism throughout this process,” added Chammartin.