In a remarkable testament to dedication and achievement, York’s very own contract faculty member, Barbara Bellissimo, has been appointed as the President and CEO of HSB Canada. HSB Canada, part of Munich Re, is a technology-driven company built on a foundation of specialty insurance, engineering, and technology.
“I’m delighted to be the President and CEO at HSB Canada. I look forward to leading this great team as we accelerate into the future together,” shares Bellissimo. “My vision revolves around collaboration, growth and fostering an inclusive space for our staff and partners. Our commitment to clients remains as strong as ever, and we will continue to support and grow to match the evolving needs of our world.”
This impressive appointment not only highlights her exceptional professional journey but also serves as an inspiring example of success within the university’s academic community. In 2021, Bellissimo made significant contributions to academia by collaborating with York University to develop insurance and risk management curricula.
Through the joint efforts of the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS) and the Faculty of Science, brought together by the Risk and Insurance Studies Centre (RISC) and supported by funding from the Spencer Educational Foundation and the Academic Innovation Fund, Bellissimo played an integral role in the creation of the ECON/MATH 1280 Principles of Risk Management and Insurance course.
This program led by RISC with the support of LA&PS’ Department of Economics and the Faculty of Science’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics, addresses widespread advancements in the field that have changed the ways companies assess potential risks and respond to customer needs. The course is designed to engage, inspire and spark interest in risk management and insurance (RMI) for those enrolled in economics and math, as well as students studying law, health, business and humanities. Bellissimo will continue to offer assistance for the creation and execution of a simulator to aid the program.
“It is incredibly rewarding to have developed this interactive course where students can learn the theory, connect with industry leaders and practice their learning through running an insurance company through a simulator,” comments Bellissimo. “This course benefits the industry by introducing to students the world of risk and insurance and the career opportunities within it. A huge thank you to RISC, Department of Economics Professor Ida Ferrara and Department of Mathematics and Statistics Professor Ed Furman, who had the foresight to envision this program and its impact.”
Bellissimo earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Western Ontario and is a distinguished Fellow Chartered Insurance Professional (FCIP). Presently, she serves as a course director at York University, a board member of Sienna Senior Living (SIA), and Chair of Southlake Hospital Foundation.
Join us as we celebrate Barbara Bellissimo and her continued success in shaping the future of HSB Canada and beyond.