Reserve

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.

Sheri Clay

Vice President, Private Client

sheri.clay@axisinsurance.ca

(778) 887-5200

I’m Sheri Clay, Vice President, Private Client at Axis Insurance. Since joining the industry in 2005, I’ve dedicated myself to understanding the intricacies of insurance operations and risk management, working to streamline processes and deliver high-value solutions to our clients. I have experience in expanding and leading Private Client Services teams, focusing on high-net-worth and C-suite clientele, ensuring they have the expertise and guidance they need to navigate complex insurance landscapes.

With over two decades of experience, I’ve earned my C.A.I.B. and CAPI designations and am actively involved in industry panels discussing key market trends, including the evolving Earthquake market in British Columbia. My leadership extends to my role on the Insurance Council of British Columbia, where I sit on both the Disciplinary Review Committee and the Continuing Education General Insurance and Adjuster Accreditation Committee.

At Axis Insurance, my focus is on empowering clients to lean into risk—understanding that it’s not about avoiding uncertainty but managing it strategically. This mindset is reflected in my commitment to fostering growth, building resilient solutions, and helping clients thrive in today’s fast-paced world. Outside of work, I’m deeply committed to community engagement through the James and Sheri Clay Foundation, where I contribute to initiatives that positively impact those around me.

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

Sharlayne Makin

Account Manager, Private Client

sharlayne.makin@axisinsurance.ca

(778) 653-1824

Tara Carey

Account Manager, Private Client

tara.carey@axisinsurance.ca

(905) 845-9793

I’m Tara Carey, an Account Manager in the High Net-Worth department at Axis Insurance. I work closely with clients to understand their unique needs and deliver personalized insurance solutions that protect what matters most to them. With a client-first mindset, I strive to be a trusted advisor who listens, anticipates, and acts with precision.

I bring over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, with a focus on VIP and High Net Worth accounts. Throughout my career, I’ve built a strong track record of supporting sophisticated clients with complex insurance portfolios. My deep understanding of this space allows me to navigate nuanced risk profiles and deliver solutions that align with evolving lifestyles and assets.

At Axis, I specialize in serving individuals and families with elevated insurance needs. Whether it’s structuring bespoke coverage or advocating on a client’s behalf, my goal is to simplify complexity and deliver peace of mind. I take pride in helping our clients move forward confidently, knowing they are backed by thoughtful protection.  

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and volunteering in my local community. Exploring new places and giving back both broaden my perspective and keep me grounded. 

Kenner Astles

Account Manager, Private Client

kenner.astles@axisinsurance.ca

(236) 427-2978

Hanaa Khan

Account Manager, Private Client

hanaa.khan@axisinsurance.ca

(604) 639-9724