Reserve by Axis Insurance: Wondercare’s Canadian Insurance Partner

Dorothea Dowling

National Senior Vice President, Personal Lines

dorothea.dowling@axisinsurance.ca

(604) 699-2067

Dorothea Vanherwaarden Dowling serves as National Senior Vice President of Personal Insurance and National Practice Group Leader at Axis Insurance, where she leads the national strategy and growth of the firm’s Personal Lines division. With 16 years of industry experience, she specializes in advising high-net-worth clients on complex risks, including luxury homes, international property portfolios, fine art, marine exposures, and other specialty assets.

She works closely with private clients, family offices, and professional advisors to develop tailored insurance and risk management strategies designed to protect evolving lifestyles and wealth. Her leadership and impact have earned recognition across the industry, including being named among Canada’s Elite Women in Insurance, as well as honours such as IBABC Personal Lines Broker of the Year and Young Achiever of the Year.

Beyond her professional work, Dorothea is deeply committed to philanthropy. She previously chaired the Arthritis Society of Canada’s Fire Ball Gala and serves as a member of the organization’s National Council, supporting efforts to advance arthritis research and advocacy across Canada. She is also the founder of Theasty, a culinary and lifestyle brand inspired by her experience as runner-up on MasterChef Canada.

Outside of work, Dorothea enjoys cooking, playing golf, tennis, and travelling.

Irena Skobalj

Regional Senior Vice President, Personal Insurance

irena.skobalj@axisinsurance.ca

(604) 699-2055

I’m Irena Skobalj, Regional Senior Vice President of Personal Insurance on the Private Client team at Axis Insurance. Over the past 14 years in the insurance industry, I have specialized in servicing high net worth properties, private collections, and hard-to-place risks. This niche allows me to cater to the unique and complex needs of our most discerning clients, ensuring valuable assets are comprehensively protected.

My commitment to providing the highest level of client-focused service has not only helped me earn and maintain the trust of our clients but has also been recognized within our company through top performer and corporate values awards. Additionally, I take pride in my role of mentoring and leading a successful team of brokers, guiding them to achieve excellence in our field.

While away from the office, you’ll typically find me at yoga class or trying new restaurants in the Vancouver area.

Michele Johnson

Vice President, Private Client

michele.johnson@axisinsurance.ca

(289) 863-4393

I’m Michele Johnson, Vice President of Private Client Insurance at Axis. I’ve been in the insurance industry for over 25 years, with more than 15 years specializing in high net-worth personal insurance. In my role, I focus on building lasting client relationships and delivering excellent service. My leadership is focused on building a team that not only meets expectations but sets new standards for what exceptional service looks like.

I’m a proud graduate of the Certified Advisor of Personal Insurance (CAPI) program, a collaboration between the Wharton School of Business and Chubb. I’m also proud to have received the Excellence in Leadership Award, in recognition of my contributions to the management team and for leading my team to outstanding results.

What drives me most is creating meaningful connections with clients, colleagues, and partners. I believe that trust is built through consistency, transparency, and a deep understanding of each client’s unique needs. At Axis, I bring this philosophy to life by ensuring every interaction is personal, thoughtful, and rooted in long-term value. This approach has led to impeccable client retention, and relationships that grow stronger year after year.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, gardening, and going on adventures with my husband.

Amanda Fox

Account Executive, Private Client

amanda.fox@axisinsurance.ca

(604) 699-2058

Hello, I’m Amanda Fox, an Account Executive at Axis Insurance, where I’ve been helping our clients navigate their insurance needs since May 2022. With a decade of experience in the insurance industry that started in 2013, I specialize in Personal Lines, Private Client services, Hard to Place risks, and Personal Watercraft. These areas require a deep understanding of the unique and sometimes challenging needs of our clients, ensuring they receive bespoke coverage that fits their situation.

Currently working towards completing my CAIB designation, my journey in the insurance industry has been fuelled by a commitment to continuous learning and development. This dedication not only enhances my professional skills but also ensures I can offer the most current and effective solutions to our clients.

Outside of the office, I’m an avid trail runner and hiker, always eager to explore new paths and landscapes. This passion for adventure extends to spending quality time with my children, discovering the beauty of nature together.

Stefanie White

Account Executive, Private Client

stefanie.white@axisinsurance.ca

(604) 313-9962

Nicole Barbosa

Account Manager, Private Client

nicole.barbosa@axisinsurance.ca

(289) 863-4912

I’m Nicole Barbosa, and I support high-net-worth individuals and families by structuring personalized insurance programs that protect what matters most. My focus is on managing complex personal risk, across luxury homes, fine art, jewelry, collector vehicles, and more, with discretion and precision. I provide white-glove service that aligns with our clients’ unique lifestyles and evolving needs.

I’ve spent my 15-year insurance career in Personal Lines, starting in reception and working my way through progressively senior roles. Over the past seven years, I’ve specialized in high-net-worth clients, developing a nuanced understanding of how to assess risk and preserve personal wealth through tailored insurance strategies.

At Axis, I focus on renewal and policy review, client retention, and delivering responsive, relationship-driven service. I regularly attend industry seminars to stay ahead of emerging trends and coverage developments in the high-value personal insurance space.

My work aligns closely with Axis’s vision, helping clients embrace risk as a catalyst for growth. Whether it’s insuring a new property, expanding a classic car collection, or investing in artwork, I help clients understand and navigate risk with confidence.

Outside of work, I volunteer with Peel Region Helping Hands, supporting community meal programs and fundraising initiatives. I also enjoy experimenting in the kitchen and honing my golf game on the weekends.