Ashley Sousa

Assistant Vice President of Manufacturing Wood Products

 

I’m Ashley Sousa, Assistant Vice President in Axis’s Manufacturing Practice Group, focusing on Wood Products. Guided by a deep understanding of the wood industry, my approach emphasizes risk programs that protect operations and support sustainable growth. I work closely with secondary wood manufacturers across Ontario to help them understand their exposures, reduce their total cost of risk, and make confident business decisions. 

My career began far from the insurance world, as a small-town newspaper journalist, before I transitioned into the industry after moving to the Greater Toronto Area. Starting in office administration, I quickly advanced into account management and broking, earning my RIBO License in 2011. Managing a $3 million book of business honed my operational and client-service skills, paving the way for my shift into sales. Over the past decade, I’ve specialized in serving wood manufacturing clients, gaining deep insight into their unique risks and opportunities. 

I’m passionate about leadership and inclusion. I completed the Leadership Program at The Magnes Group and spearheaded its Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. I’m also an active member of the ISC Group, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing women in insurance leadership. Through task group involvement in the Mass Timber sector, I’ve helped address insurance challenges that limit progress towards sustainable, climate-neutral construction, a mission I’m deeply committed to.  

At Axis, my work embodies our belief that “where risks shape success.” I help clients see risk not as a threat but as an opportunity for growth. Through detailed policy analyses, relationship audits, and strategic loss-control recommendations, I help manufacturers protect their businesses while driving performance and efficiency. 

Outside of work, I enjoy playing softball, tackling puzzles, catching live music, and hosting game nights with friends.