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Individually, we’re experts. Together we’re Unity.

Introduction

Our expertise and innovative solutions not only safeguard you today but support your goals for a future filled with possibilities.

We build long-term relationships with our clients through vision, communication, education, and collaboration.

open concept office

Vision

Every legacy is built on a vision. Your vision provides the focus and direction for our planning process. By developing, documenting, and executing a clear, actionable plan, we ensure that your legacy is protected.

Communication

Proper communication leads to discovery. Through transparent, honest conversations, you can uncover your goals. We listen because only you know what is best for you. In our process, you make the decisions – we are here to provide expert insight as we guide you through each step.

Education

Education leads to clarity and peace of mind. We educate you about the tools and solutions available to you. By providing you with educational resources you need, we help you make clear and confident decisions.

Collaboration

Collaboration is our forte. We work with you and your other trusted advisors to craft a process that ensures the best results. Although we have decades of experience behind us, we continually learn new information and skills. We have assembled a support team of industry experts, and we value our ability to know when to ask for their input.

Our History

For 25 years, Unity Insurance and its partners have done advanced planning for business owners and their families. Our planning process centres around our clients’ goals. We ‘ve always taken care to understand our clients and educate clients so they see how Unity solutions move them closer to their goal every step of the way. Over time, our clients’ planning needs grew more complex, the Unity team grew, too.

As we began working with large, multi-generational private businesses, in 2017 we brought on a dedicated actuary with decades of actuarial experience working inside Canada’s largest life insurers. Combining in-depth knowledge of our clients and detailed technical expertise has been Unity’s hallmark ever since.

Unity’s current owners, Dustin Schneider and Trevor Shaw, took over leadership of Unity in 2021. Unity’s staff has since grown to a team of seven advisors, a CFA, an actuary and five operations staff. Our clients’ businesses may range in size, but the quality of advice they can count on from Unity will not vary. Unity’s advice started and remains first-in-class.

Our Team

UNITY: the state of being united or combined into one. It’s the sense of togetherness and harmony among individuals or groups. It’s about supporting one another and working towards a common goal. Individually, we’re experts; together, we’re UNITY.

Dustin Schneider

Dustin Schneider | BBA

President

A coach and mentor once told me, “What got you here, won’t get you there.” As a professional athlete, I learned first-hand that I have to be continually improving.

At Unity, continual improvement means I have more skills to draw from, which helps me find solutions when changes arise in the industry or in the lives of my clients. My focus will always be on solid communication and constant incremental improvements that create lasting success over time.

Scott Sadler

Scott Sadler

Actuary

I think Will Smith said it best, “Money and success don’t change people, they merely amplify what is already there.” This idea is at the heart of my work as an independent actuary.

I have years of experience providing product education and actuarial counselling, with a focus on life insurance product design, pricing, and taxation. As an avid chess player, I’m constantly trying to “see the whole board”—and I use this to help me better understand my clients and their needs. It’s all about the client.

Trevor Shaw

Trevor Shaw | CFA

Partner

The diversity and strength of the Unity team allows each of us to focus on what we do best.

My focus is on creating relationships and client solutions that stand the test of time. I believe that great decisions require thoughtful analysis, and I use my financial experience to help simplify our clients’ decisions down to their most essential parts.

Mitch Kilgore | CPA

Director, Financial Analysis

My focus is on financial analysis that empowers clients to succeed. I work closely with clients to help them understand their financial landscape and identify clear pathways to their goals.

By maintaining open lines of communication, I provide comprehensive, data-driven guidance tailored to each client’s unique needs and desired outcomes. My commitment is to help clients achieve their financial objectives, empowering them to make informed decisions for a secure financial future.

Caitilin O'Connor

Caitilin O’Connor

Financial Manager

I make sure to build genuine relationships with colleagues and clients because the more we understand each other, the better results we achieve. The best solutions happen when we collaborate.

I think constant advancement is essential. That is why I’m so proud to work at Unity, where we’re always fine-tuning our processes or investing in new ones to guarantee the best outcome for our clients.

Mary Domitruk

Mary Domitruk | FLMI, ACS, AIAA

Administration & Operations

In my role at Unity, I am humbled by the success stories I witness, and grateful for the diverse talents and viewpoints the team brings to work every day. I believe anything is possible if you put in the work.

My love of learning, analyzing, and discovering drives me to stay up to date with our changing industry. At Unity, our differences are celebrated, and our talents are nurtured.

Brianne Braccio

Brianne Calais

Brand and Marketing Coordinator

I am a blend of creativity and strategic thinking. I thrive on collaborating with our team to deliver impactful results that resonate with our clients. I am dedicated to staying ahead of trends and creating memorable brand experiences that leave a lasting impression.

I believe change can only happen when you honour your future more than your past. I am grateful to be part of a team that is focused on creating great futures for our clients.

Miriam Haverda

Miriam Haverda

Administration & Operations

It is important to love what you do, and I can honestly say that I do. I pride myself on bringing positive energy and years of practical experience to the table.

I am grateful for the Unity team; they constantly inspire me. We are all motivated by a sincere desire to succeed for the sake of our clients. 

Roxanne Chance

Roxanne Chance

Administration & Operations

Relationships are the foundation for all aspects of my life; being around motivated, positive people helps me to achieve my goals. Every day I work alongside a dedicated team that shares my passion for delivering exceptional client service.

I value the challenges I face daily at Unity, especially creating organizational systems that help make processes more efficient and effective. Each client or engagement is unique and there is a consistent opportunity to learn something new each day.

Mark Schneider

Mark Schneider | BBA

Advisor & Partnership Management

“Success is best when it’s shared” (Howard Schultz). My journey is built on the foundation of teamwork; centered around relationship building, communication, and organization.

I’m passionate about helping clients and partners achieve their goals through collaborative efforts and strategic planning. TEAM – Together. Everyone. Achieves. More.

Barak Mymin

Barak Mymin | BA, BED

Advisor

“In the midst of every crisis lies great opportunity.” (Einstein) This optimistic approach helps guide my work with clients to connect them to a personalized planning strategy.

I believe that the greatest successes in life come from building and maintaining healthy relationships; few things inspire me more than working successfully as a team. At Unity, I have the opportunity to collaborate with team members to further strengthen client relationships and ensure we are delivering excellence.

Jackson Brennan

Jackson Brennan | BBA

Advisor

I believe that with effort and hard work, anything is achievable. Coming from a long history of team sports, I am very excited to be a part of the Unity team and transfer my learnings through school and sport into the insurance and financial planning industry.

Regan Smith

Regan Smith | B. COMM (HONS)

Advisor

I believe in the philosophy that, “there is no end to education” (Jiddu Krishnamurti). I am driven by my desire to acquire knowledge that promotes building quality relationships with clients so they can have a thorough understanding of their insurance and finances. Here at Unity, we provide the resources and opportunities for continuous education and improvement for our employees and clients.

FAQ’S

Take control. Be informed.

Do I really need life insurance?

This is a common question, especially for those who are young and healthy. Life insurance is essential for providing financial security to your dependents in case of your untimely death.

What kind of life insurance do I need?

There are different types of life insurance, such as term life, whole life, and universal life insurance. The best type depends on your financial goals, budget, and the needs of your beneficiaries.

How much life insurance is right for me?

The amount of coverage you need depends on various factors, including your income, debts, lifestyle, and the financial needs of your dependents.

Will I need to take a physical exam to qualify for life insurance?

Many life insurance policies require a medical exam to assess your health and determine your premium rates. However, some policies may offer no-exam depending upon the amount of insurance being applied for.

Will my premium always be the same, or will it change?

Premiums for term life insurance typically remain the same for the duration of the term. Whole life and universal life insurance premiums can vary based on the policy’s terms and conditions.

What is financial planning, and why is it important?

Financial planning involves creating a strategy to manage your finances to achieve your life goals. It includes budgeting, saving, investing, protection, and planning for retirement. It’s crucial for ensuring long-term financial stability.

How do I start with financial planning?

Begin by assessing your current financial situation, setting clear financial goals, and creating a budget. Consulting with a financial advisor can help you develop a comprehensive plan tailored to your needs.

How can life insurance be used in financial planning?

Life insurance can be used to cover debts, provide for dependents, fund buy-sell agreements, growth wealth on a tax-deferred basis, and even serve as collateral for loans. It plays a vital role in ensuring financial security and business continuity.

What is a buy-sell agreement, and do I need one?

A buy-sell agreement is a legally binding contract that outlines what happens to a business owner’s share if they die or leave the business. It’s essential for business continuity and protecting the interests of the remaining owners.

What are the tax benefits of life insurance?

Life insurance proceeds are generally received tax-free by beneficiaries. Additionally, certain policies can offer tax-deferred growth on the cash value component of the policy.
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