Navacord Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Navacord has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, technology, legal, people, personal lines, underwriting, and finance.

Driven by a commitment to client success, Navacord provides expert insurance and risk management solutions, shaping market impact through strategic leadership and operational excellence.

Leadership Roles at Navacord

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Shawn DeSantis
  • President, Personal Lines and Travel - Melanie Muise
  • President - Erin Gunn
  • President, Navacord Underwriting - Greg Irvine
  • President, Navacord (Ontario) - Eric Osborne
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Courtney Elliott
  • Chief Information Officer - Susan Scott
  • Chief Legal Officer - Brandon Parent
  • Chief People Officer - Kristin Coulombe
  • Chief Financial & Operating Officer - Steven Ridgeway
  • Shawn DeSantis - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Shawn DeSantis, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Navacord, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution for the insurance and risk management brokerage firm. Overseeing all major business units, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with Navacord's mission to deliver expert solutions across Canada. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives and maintaining the company's market position. By fostering key stakeholder relationships, Shawn DeSantis directly impacts the firm's expansion and client retention. Ultimately, DeSantis secures long-term financial stability and strategic direction for the organization.

    Melanie Muise - President, Personal Lines and Travel

    Melanie Muise, the President, Personal Lines and Travel at Navacord, leads the strategic direction and operational management for the company's personal insurance and travel coverage divisions. Overseeing product development and client service within these segments, the President, Personal Lines and Travel ensures Navacord delivers tailored solutions to individual clients across Canada. This executive role involves driving innovation and market growth in consumer-focused insurance products. By optimizing service delivery and expanding offerings, Melanie Muise directly enhances customer experience and market share. Ultimately, Muise strengthens Navacord's presence in the personal insurance and travel markets.
    Melanie Muise

    Erin Gunn - President

    Erin Gunn, the President at Navacord, drives strategic initiatives and operational excellence across key business segments. Overseeing multiple divisions, the President ensures seamless integration of services and alignment with the company's overall growth objectives in the Canadian market. This leadership position focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and fostering strong client relationships. By implementing best practices and strategic partnerships, Erin Gunn directly contributes to Navacord's market leadership. Ultimately, Gunn plays a pivotal role in expanding the firm's reach and service capabilities.

    Greg Irvine - President, Navacord Underwriting

    Greg Irvine, the President, Navacord Underwriting at Navacord, directs the strategy and operations for the company's specialized underwriting services. Managing the underwriting teams, the President, Navacord Underwriting ensures the development and delivery of innovative insurance products tailored to specific market needs across Canada. This executive function involves assessing risk and optimizing underwriting processes for profitability and client satisfaction. By expanding the underwriting portfolio and enhancing risk assessment capabilities, Greg Irvine directly contributes to Navacord's specialized market strength. Ultimately, Irvine solidifies Navacord's position as a leader in underwriting solutions.

    Eric Osborne - President, Navacord (Ontario)

    Eric Osborne, the President, Navacord (Ontario) at Navacord, leads the strategic development and operational execution for the company within the Ontario region. Overseeing all business activities in this key market, the President, Navacord (Ontario) ensures Navacord's specialized insurance and risk management solutions meet the unique needs of Ontario-based businesses. This executive role focuses on expanding market share and strengthening client relationships within the province. By driving regional growth strategies and fostering local partnerships, Eric Osborne directly enhances Navacord's presence and impact in Ontario. Ultimately, Osborne champions Navacord's success within this vital Canadian market.

    Courtney Elliott - Chief Marketing Officer

    Courtney Elliott, the Chief Marketing Officer at Navacord, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and client acquisition. Overseeing all promotional activities and market research, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures consistent brand messaging across all Canadian business operations. This leadership position involves developing targeted campaigns that resonate with diverse business sectors. By analyzing market trends and customer insights, Courtney Elliott directly influences lead generation and market penetration. Ultimately, Elliott drives the company's growth through innovative and data-informed marketing initiatives.

    Susan Scott - Chief Information Officer

    Susan Scott, the Chief Information Officer at Navacord, spearheads the company's technology vision and digital transformation efforts. Managing all IT infrastructure and cybersecurity protocols, the Chief Information Officer ensures robust and secure technological operations supporting Navacord's Canadian client base. This critical role involves evaluating and implementing innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency and client service delivery. By optimizing data management and system integration, Susan Scott directly contributes to the firm's competitive advantage. Ultimately, Scott safeguards the company's digital assets and drives technological advancement.
    Brandon Parent, the Chief Legal Officer at Navacord, provides expert legal counsel and oversees all compliance and regulatory matters for the firm. Managing the legal department, the Chief Legal Officer ensures adherence to all Canadian insurance and business laws, mitigating risk across operations. This senior position involves advising on corporate governance and contractual agreements. By navigating complex legal landscapes, Brandon Parent directly supports the company's ethical operations and strategic decision-making. Ultimately, Parent protects Navacord's interests and maintains its reputation for integrity.
    Brandon Parent

    Kristin Coulombe - Chief People Officer

    Kristin Coulombe, the Chief People Officer at Navacord, directs human resources strategy, talent acquisition, and employee development programs. Overseeing all aspects of workforce management, the Chief People Officer cultivates a positive and productive company culture across Navacord's Canadian operations. This role focuses on attracting, retaining, and engaging top talent within the insurance sector. By implementing effective HR policies and initiatives, Kristin Coulombe directly enhances employee satisfaction and organizational performance. Ultimately, Coulombe ensures Navacord possesses a skilled and motivated workforce.

    Steven Ridgeway - Chief Financial & Operating Officer

    Steven Ridgeway, the Chief Financial & Operating Officer at Navacord, oversees the company's financial health and operational efficiency. Managing all financial planning, reporting, and operational infrastructure, the Chief Financial & Operating Officer ensures fiscal responsibility and optimizes business processes across Navacord's Canadian operations. This role is critical for resource allocation and strategic investment decisions. By driving financial performance and streamlining operations, Steven Ridgeway directly supports sustainable growth and profitability. Ultimately, Ridgeway ensures the financial stability and operational effectiveness of the entire organization.
    Steven Ridgeway

    Explore Leadership Teams in Insurance

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Navacord Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Navacord?
    Navacord is led by Shawn DeSantis (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Melanie Muise (President, Personal Lines and Travel) and Erin Gunn (President).
    Who is part of Navacord’s executive team?
    The executive team of Navacord includes leaders such as Shawn DeSantis (President & Chief Executive Officer), Melanie Muise (President, Personal Lines and Travel), Erin Gunn (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Navacord have?
    Navacord has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Navacord’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Navacord includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, President, Personal Lines and Travel, President, President, Navacord Underwriting, President, Navacord (Ontario).