Our Benefits Team
Penmore Benefits consultants focus exclusively on their area of benefits expertise. We focus on the details and help you see the big picture.
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Ciara McArdle,
Ciara McArdle
Sr Account Manager
Ciara McArdle is an Account Manager at Penmore Benefits. Originally from Ireland, she moved to Canada in 2016 and has worked in the group benefits industry since then. She holds an Honours Degree in Accounting and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. Outside of work, Ciara enjoys staying active by playing Gaelic football with St. Pats Toronto and going to the gym. She also loves spending quality time with her family.
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Drasti Shah,
Drasti Shah
Group Benefits Analyst
Drasti believes in making the most of everyday moments. A natural go-getter with a hands-on creative mindset, she enjoys exploring new ideas, tackling challenges head-on, and approaching life with the belief that the answer is always yes when you’re willing to put in the effort. Outside of work, Drasti values family above all else and spends much of her free time keeping up with her energetic two-year-old son. She has a strong appreciation for analytical and problem-solving activities and enjoys putting her skills to the test through escape rooms and other strategy-based challenges. Drasti holds the role of Group Benefits Analyst at Penmore. She brings over eight years of experience in the insurance industry, with a background spanning both Third-Party Administrators (TPAs) and Managing General Agencies (MGAs). Driven by continuous learning and growth, Drasti is committed to expanding her expertise, deepening her industry knowledge, and building a long-term career in the group benefits and insurance space.
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Vinuja Selvarajah,
Vinuja Selvarajah
Group Benefits Analyst
Vinuja has been a part of the Group Benefits and Pension team since 2018, focusing on client service, implementations and Third-Party Administration. Vinuja holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from York University, which has equipped her with a deep understanding of people and a client-focused approach to benefits management. She is passionate about helping clients navigate their benefits with care and precision, ensuring solutions are tailored to meet their unique needs. Outside of her professional role, Vinuja is a proud mom. She finds joy in serving at her church and values opportunities to give back. In her free time, she loves exploring new cuisines, indulging her love for reading, and cherishing every moment spent with family and friends. She believes in living life with purpose and finds fulfillment in faith, family, and meaningful connections.
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Anannya Bose,
Anannya Bose
Account Manager
Anannya is a passionate and driven professional who brings energy, creativity, and focus to everything she does. With a strong work ethic and keen attention to detail, she thrives in fast-paced environments and consistently goes the extra mile to deliver exceptional results. She currently has her GBA 1 certification and is working towards getting her CEBS Designation. Drawing on her extensive experience in client servicing within the benefits industry, Anannya plays a vital role in driving client satisfaction and team success. Beyond work, she’s an avid traveler who enjoys discovering new places, cultures, and cuisines—experiences that often inspire her both personally and professionally. She also finds joy in cooking and driving, pursuits that reflect her creativity, independence, and focus. A true workaholic at heart, Anannya embodies dedication, curiosity, and passion—bringing not just skill and insight, but also warmth and enthusiasm to every project she takes on.
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Caroline Routledge,
Caroline Routledge
Group Benefits Analyst
Caroline is a driven and hard-working individual with motivation to continuously learn and grow. She recently graduated in June 2025 from Wilfrid Laurier University while being a student athlete and completing her studies. Currently, she is starting her career in group benefits at Penmore Benefits and is ready to embark on her journey. She is ready to grow not only from a professional standpoint but personal as well. Furthermore, Caroline enjoys sports and being active, snowboarding in the winter, travelling, and seeing new places of the world that help her grow from cultural and world experiences.
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Cassandra Fraser,
Cassandra Fraser
Jr Benefits Analyst
Cassandra Fraser is a Junior Group Benefits Analyst at Penmore Benefits. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Master's Degree from The University of Western Ontario. Before joining the Penmore Team, she gained valuable experience in the health and dental industry. Cassandra is known for her strong work ethic, desire to learn and ability to adapt quickly - qualities that help her thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments. She is looking forward to continuous growth both personally and professionally as a part of the team at Penmore. Outside of work, Cassandra loves spending time with friends and family, travelling, and staying active - whether that’s going on a walk, run, pilates or dance class!
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Matthew Pinette,
Matthew Pinette
Sales Consultant
Matthew joined Penmore in 2025 as a Sales Consultant specializing in Group Benefits. With several years of insurance experience and a background in hospitality management and sales leadership, he brings a practical, people-first approach to his work. Matthew partners with businesses to design tailored employee benefit plans and provides ongoing support to help clients manage their programs and navigate insurer relationships. Known for his clear communication and commitment to client success, Matthew focuses on building strong, long-term partnerships rooted in integrity and trust. Outside of work, you’ll find him at the lake, golfing, playing hockey, or cheering on the Winnipeg Jets.
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Ryan Reeson,
Ryan Reeson
Account Manager
Ryan has a background in healthcare, with a focus on orthopaedics. He worked as a research student at Toronto Western Hospital during his undergrad and grad school, having the opportunity to shadow orthopaedic surgeons in the fracture clinic and operating room. Ryan completed both his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science in Kinesiology at Western University. He entered the business world through joining a tech start-up where he gained experience in business development, sales, client management, and marketing. Ryan then entered the insurance industry in 2022, working in Accident Benefits, where he utilized his strong customer service skills to assist claimants who were injured in motor vehicle accidents. He joined Penmore in July 2024 as part of our Group Benefits team, and he is one of our Jr. Account Managers. In his free time, Ryan enjoys playing and watching sports, trying new restaurants, listening to music, reading, travelling, and spending time at the cottage with family and friends. He is a loyal and passionate Toronto sports fan, especially of the Maple Leafs, Blue Jays, and Raptors.
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John Giannopoulos,
John Giannopoulos
Sales Consultant
With over 20 years of experience in the insurance and employee benefits industry, John brings a well-rounded background in consulting, senior leadership, operations, and sales. He has partnered with organizations ranging from multinational corporations to local businesses, helping them design and manage benefits programs that balance cost-efficiency with employee satisfaction. He holds the Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) designation and is known for his people-first approach, strategic insight, and ability to simplify the complex. A natural communicator and relationship builder, he takes pride in delivering tailored solutions that support both employers and their teams. Outside the office, John is a devoted husband and father of two daughters, an avid sports fan, and a lifelong reader with a particular interest in theology and the classics. Grounded in his faith and values, he enjoys spending time with his family up north and approaches both life and work with integrity, purpose, and a sense of humour.
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Victoria Routledge,
Victoria Routledge
Account Manager
Victoria is an active and motivated individual with a strong passion for sports, travel, and continuous learning. She graduated from Acadia University with a degree in Business Administration in 2021. Since then, Victoria has worked in the group benefits sector for over 3 years and has an active LLQP license. In her spare time, she enjoys playing ringette, enjoys skiing during the winter months, and has a passion for travel, exploring new cultures and destinations.
"Spencer is a passionate and dedicated individual with a variety of interests. He studied Business Management at Humber College before joining Penmore in August 2024. He has since quickly adapted to the role of Group Benefits Analyst and become an asset to the Penmore Benefits team. In his free time, he can be found playing with his band as guitarist and lead vocalist, walking his dog, or with his friends playing various tabletop and video games. "
Spencer Reed,
Spencer Reed
Group Benefits Analyst
Spencer is a passionate and dedicated individual with a variety of interests. He studied Business Management at Humber College before joining Penmore in August 2024. He has since quickly adapted to the role of Group Benefits Analyst and become an asset to the Penmore Benefits team. In his free time, he can be found playing with his band as guitarist and lead vocalist, walking his dog, or with his friends playing various tabletop and video games.
"With over 15 years of experience in sales and customer relations, Mohammad is passionate about helping individuals and organizations navigate the complexities of benefits and retirement planning. A big MMA fan and tennis enthusiast, Mohammad brings a strategic and competitive mindset to every interaction. "
Mohammad Al Jarkasi,
Mohammad Al Jarkasi
Benefits & Retirement Plan Sales Consultant
With over 15 years of experience in sales and customer relations, Mohammad is passionate about helping individuals and organizations navigate the complexities of benefits and retirement planning. A big MMA fan and tennis enthusiast, Mohammad brings a strategic and competitive mindset to every interaction. Holding a bachelor's in business, he is committed to working closely with clients to tailor solutions that align with their financial goals and long-term security. By building strong relationships and understanding each client’s unique needs, Mohammad ensures that they receive the support and guidance necessary to make informed decisions for a successful future.
"Cecilia has been an Associate of the Group Benefits and Pension team since 2018 with her focus on client service and Third-Party Administration. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree from York University and HRM postgraduate certificate from Seneca College. Prior to joining the Penmore team, Cecilia worked for over 25 years as an office administrator and operations manager with her family’s business in furniture manufacturing. "
Cecilia Ladisa,
Cecilia Ladisa
Associate
Cecilia has been an Associate of the Group Benefits and Pension team since 2018 with her focus on client service and Third-Party Administration. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree from York University and HRM postgraduate certificate from Seneca College. Prior to joining the Penmore team, Cecilia worked for over 25 years as an office administrator and operations manager with her family’s business in furniture manufacturing. Family is priority for this proud mom. She enjoys travelling and the occasional escape room challenge, but most of all, she cherishes any time spent with family and friends.
"Nicholas is a dedicated Benefits & Retirement Plan Sales Consultant at Penmore Benefits, where he helps companies design and optimize their employee benefits and retirement programs. He provides strategic solutions that align with both corporate objectives and employee well-being. His expertise lies in tailoring benefits programs to support talent retention, financial security, and long-term growth. "
Nicholas Parise,
Nicholas Parise
Benefits & Retirement Plan Sales Consultant
Nicholas is a dedicated Group Benefits and Group Retirement Specialist at Penmore Benefits, where he helps companies design and optimize their employee benefits and retirement programs. He provides strategic solutions that align with both corporate objectives and employee well-being. His expertise lies in tailoring benefits programs to support talent retention, financial security, and long-term growth. Passionate about building strong relationships, Nicholas works closely with business leaders, HR teams, and industry professionals to deliver customized, future-ready solutions. Outside of work, he has a keen interest in film, F1, motorsports, and skiing.
"Daren joined Penmore in April 2024 after three years of leading analyst teams across Southern Ontario for a major brokerage. Prior to that, he gained valuable consulting experience working with various brokerages and insurers, developing a strong foundation in risk assessment and client solutions. With a deep understanding of the industry, he brings a strategic approach to helping clients navigate their insurance needs. "
Daren Ali,
Daren Ali
Senior Benefits Consultant
Daren joined Penmore in April 2024 after three years of leading analyst teams across Southern Ontario for a major brokerage. Prior to that, he gained valuable consulting experience working with various brokerages and insurers, developing a strong foundation in risk assessment and client solutions. With a deep understanding of the industry, he brings a strategic approach to helping clients navigate their insurance needs. In his current role at Penmore, Daren is responsible for supporting existing clients and currently holds an active LLQP license. Outside of work, Daren spends his free time coaching his youth basketball teams or watching his son play.
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Madhulika Rawat,
Madhulika Rawat
Group Benefits & Customer Care Representative
Madhulika believes in the ideology of “You only live once, so enjoy the ride”. Recently, she rediscovered her old passion for acrylic painting, a creative endeavor she adores sharing with her friends and family through heartfelt gifts. In her leisure hours, she enjoys listening to music, engaging in yoga practice, and maintaining her physical fitness. She hails from a large, tightly knit family with whom she enjoys discussing various aspects of life.
Madhulika holds the role of Group Benefits Analyst and Customer Care Specialist at Penmore, bringing more than five years of experience in the healthcare industry which includes working in Third-Party Administration and Pharmaceutical Consulting firms. She holds an MBA with a specialization in Healthcare Management and is presently working towards earning her GBA designation.
"Silvija is a fitness lover who enjoys getting outdoors and keeping active with her husband and two young children. She loves spending time with her family in Muskoka and, whether it’s ice fishing in the winter, or a boat cruise in the summer, being out on the water is her happy place. Silvija graduated from McMaster University in 2005, with a Bachelors in Kinesiology. She joined Penmore in October 2023 bringing with her over 10 years of experience in the health and dental industry, including over 5 years at TELUS Health, managing multi-million dollar, national account portfolios. She seeks to understand the needs of her clients and provide support and guidance to build and maintain strong relationships. "
Silvija Richards,
Silvija Richards
Senior Benefits Consultant
Silvija is a fitness lover who enjoys getting outdoors and keeping active with her husband and two young children. She loves spending time with her family in Muskoka and, whether it’s ice fishing in the winter, or a boat cruise in the summer, being out on the water is her happy place.
Silvija graduated from McMaster University in 2005, with a Bachelors in Kinesiology. She joined Penmore in October 2023 bringing with her over 10 years of experience in the health and dental industry, including over 5 years at TELUS Health, managing multi-million dollar, national account portfolios. She seeks to understand the needs of her clients and provide support and guidance to build and maintain strong relationships.
"Coming Soon "
Don Hiltz,
Don Hiltz
VP, Sales & Marketing, SmartChoice Benefits
Coming Soon
"Jamie is an award-winning, client-focused sales professional who has spent the entirety of his career providing solutions to organizations' Human Resources, Corporate Health, and Safety challenges. He has had the pleasure of closing sales engagements with some of the largest organizations in North America while also leading sales teams in complex, B2B sales environments. He strives to understand a client’s unique needs while ensuring that client-stakeholder KPIs are accounted for. In his spare time, Jamie enjoys playing a variety of sports and spending time with his wife and three daughters. "
Jamie Sawyer,
Jamie Sawyer
Benefits Consultant
Jamie is an award-winning, client-focused sales professional who has spent the entirety of his career providing solutions to organizations' Human Resources, Corporate Health, and Safety challenges. He has had the pleasure of closing sales engagements with some of the largest organizations in North America while also leading sales teams in complex, B2B sales environments. He strives to understand a client’s unique needs while ensuring that client-stakeholder KPIs are accounted for. In his spare time, Jamie enjoys playing a variety of sports and spending time with his wife and three daughters.
"Penmore Wealth Management understands your personal needs and goals are not the same as anyone else. We tailor a plan and provide ongoing management. We build portfolios with consistent returns so you have the security you need over time. "
Kyle O’Brien,
"Bill is a passionate sports fan who roots for Toronto’s teams: Maple Leafs, Blue Jays and Raptors. He tries to fit exercise into his life and enjoys gardening. He volunteers at his local Ajax Pickering Board of Trade and is a past Director, President and Chair. He is also a past winner of the Board’s Business Excellence Award. A devoted husband and dad to two daughters, he always leads by example – a trait inherited from his hard working Greek immigrant parents. Value and respect are two driving needs that are important to Bill. "
Bill Zolis,
Bill Zolis
Senior Employee Benefits Consultant
Bill is a passionate sports fan who roots for Toronto’s teams: Maple Leafs, Blue Jays and Raptors. He tries to fit exercise into his life and enjoys gardening. He volunteers at his local Ajax Pickering Board of Trade and is a past Director, President and Chair. He is also a past winner of the Board’s Business Excellence Award. A devoted husband and dad to two daughters, he always leads by example – a trait inherited from his hard working Greek immigrant parents. Value and respect are two driving needs that are important to Bill.
He is a Senior Employee Benefits Consultant, responsible for customer care of his valued group clients and developing new relationships. With over 30 years of experience in this area, Bill started in the underwriting field and has advanced his vast industry knowledge base through ongoing seminars and various positions. He shares his expertise on committees of the Benefits Alliance Group and various Group Insurance Organizations such as Canadian Group Insurance Brokers (CGIB) and Group Insurance and Pharmaceutical Committee (GIPC).
"As a mother of a daughter and son who are both teenagers, family is the most important thing for Lina. When she is at home, Lina is never truly ‘at home,’ acting as a true Soccer Mom chauffeuring her kids seven days a week to practices and games. If her kids have time for mom, than that’s who you will find Lina hanging out with. She also loves to travel, read, visit museums, and cook in the rare moments of spare time. "
Lina Marzola,
Lina Marzola
Senior Benefits Analyst
As a mother of a daughter and son who are both teenagers, family is the most important thing for Lina. When she is at home, Lina is never truly ‘at home,’ acting as a true Soccer Mom chauffeuring her kids seven days a week to practices and games. If her kids have time for mom, than that’s who you will find Lina hanging out with. She also loves to travel, read, visit museums, and cook in the rare moments of spare time. Lina is an Account Coordinator and Customer Care Specialist at Penmore and has over 25 years of experience in the insurance industry. She joined Penmore in 2007 and was with Sun Life from 1994 – 2007. Lina has a Health Insurance Association of America Diploma (HIAA) and is a member of the LOMA Society.
"Michael was born and raised in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia. He attended university in North Carolina on a lacrosse scholarship and, just recently, this West Coaster decided to relocate to Ontario to pursue his career. "
Michael Pecchia,
Michael Pecchia
Benefits Consultant
Michael was born and raised in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia. He attended university in North Carolina on a lacrosse scholarship and, just recently, this West Coaster decided to relocate to Ontario to pursue his career. Although he might be far from home, Michael has very deep ties with his family, friends, and Doberman back home (placing extra importance on getting as much quality time with them as he can). He enjoys sports and being outdoors whenever he can. You will find Michael on the ice rink in the winter and playing golf in the summer. Another one of Michael's passions is traveling - his most recent trips have been to Ecuador and the Philippines. Although at this time he is not able to travel as much as he would like, he definitely plans to do more in the future. For now, Michael is kept very busy in his current role as an Account Manager and is responsible for not only acquiring new business but also growing and nurturing existing clients.
"Gianluca is big fan of baseball, hockey and cycling. He is in fact, pretty much a lover of all sports. While he likes to watch a good match, you can find him participating often as well. Being active is important for Gianluca, who is a fitness, health and wellness advocate. In addition to being a self-professed “Super Dad,” he regards himself to be an excellent forensic problem solver too. "
Gianluca Spirito,
Gianluca Spirito
Senior Benefits Consultant
Gianluca is big fan of baseball, hockey and cycling. He is in fact, pretty much a lover of all sports. While he likes to watch a good match, you can find him participating often as well. Being active is important for Gianluca, who is a fitness, health and wellness advocate. In addition to being a self-professed “Super Dad,” he regards himself to be an excellent forensic problem solver too.
Gianluca is an Account Manager at Penmore, responsible for not only acquiring new business but also growing and nurturing existing clients. He started in the industry in 2012 with Freedom 55 Financial and has been focused on planning on the corporate side of the business. He joined the Penmore Benefits team in 2014.
"Tina is a dedicated leader in the Group Benefits and Retirement consulting industry, known for her expertise, results-driven approach, and genuine care for the people and organizations she serves. As Vice President, she excels in designing benefits strategies that deliver measurable results and improve employee well-being. "
Tina Parise,
Tina Parise
Vice President
Tina is a dedicated leader in the Group Benefits and Retirement consulting industry, known for her expertise, results-driven approach, and genuine care for the people and organizations she serves. As Vice President, she excels in designing benefits strategies that deliver measurable results and improve employee well-being. Her career is driven by a passion for creating meaningful change, solving complex challenges, and building strong client relationships. Her approachable demeanor and commitment to excellence make her a trusted partner and valued mentor. She holds her BA from Ryerson Polytechnic University, now known as Toronto Metropolitan University, and brings extensive expertise as a Human Resources professional. Authenticity, enthusiasm, and a vibrant personality shine in every interaction. Whether she’s collaborating with clients, mentoring her team, or planning her next travel adventure, Tina brings a contagious energy that inspires those around her. Deeply family-oriented, she cherishes time spent with her husband and three children, exploring new places and indulging in her love for food. Her balance of professionalism and warmth makes her not only a dynamic leader but also a trusted friend and partner in success.
"Shannon is passionate about mental health advocacy, animal rescue, being a devoted friend, and, most importantly, being a mom. She loves spending her free time at the family cottage, gardening or hiking with her two dogs. Shannon also sits on the Board of Directors for Heartache2Hope, a Halton-based not-for-profit organization. "
Shannon McShane-Reed,
Shannon McShane-Reed
Senior Vice President, Group Benefits
Shannon is passionate about mental health advocacy, animal rescue, being a devoted friend, and, most importantly, being a mom. She loves spending her free time at the family cottage, gardening or hiking with her two dogs. Shannon also sits on the Board of Directors for Heartache2Hope, a Halton-based not-for-profit organization. Shannon has three decades of experience in the health and dental industry, with some of Canada’s largest public and private companies leading national blocks of business at over $100 million in revenue. She previously held executive growth-focused roles at Express Scripts Canada/Cigna and Symbility Health, where she was elevated to President after a successful tenure as VP, Sales, Marketing and Client Service. Shannon is client-focused and known for leading cross-functional teams by empowering and elevating everyone around her. She is also a Certified Agile Leader and Scrum Product Owner, using her extensive experience to help organizations drive greater efficiency and unlock growth opportunities.
"Lio Spagnuolo, GEBS, GBA, BA is a self-professed sports fan (especially hockey) who would rather be in the game, than watching it. This energy and passion is applicable to every facet of his life – personally and professionally. He is a dedicated family man with a strong work ethic, and can always be relied on to see the big picture. "
Lio Spagnuolo,
Lio Spagnuolo
President & CEO
Lio Spagnuolo, is a seasoned leader in the employee benefits industry with over three decades of experience driving strategic growth and client-focused solutions. As President of Penmore Benefits Inc., Lio oversees the firm’s Group Benefits, Group Retirement, and Global Benefits divisions, bringing a dynamic blend of vision, integrity, and operational excellence to every facet of the business.
Lio began his career at London Life in 1995 and joined Penmore in 1999, where he partnered with John and Joe to build a values-driven organization committed to long-term client success.
A passionate advocate for collaboration and innovation, Lio is a former Chair and board member of the Benefits Alliance Group, where he helped shape national policy and best practices in employee benefits. He has also served on advisory boards for leading carriers, including Manulife and London Life, contributing his insights to product development and strategic planning.
Known for his energetic leadership style and love of hockey, Lio brings the same competitive spirit and teamwork to his professional life as he does to the rink. He is a dedicated family man, a trusted mentor, and a respected voice in the benefits community
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