About Us
Elevate Underwriting is a 100% Canadian-owned and operated Managing General Underwriter, providing insurance solutions for complex, middle-market construction projects across Ontario.
At our core is a commitment to underwriting excellence, comprehensive project protection, and superior claims service. We work closely with our broker partners to understand the realities of each project and deliver tailored insurance solutions that go beyond standard coverage, so you can focus on getting the job done.
Steve Masnyk
Steve is the Founder and CEO of Elevate Underwriting, bringing over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry. A recognized authority in insurance distribution, he has played a key role in advancing the MGA channel in Canada and shaping the broader regulatory landscape. Steve has held senior leadership roles across the industry, including serving as Executive Director of CAMGA, where he helped structure and strengthen Canada’s MGA sector.
Huong Truong
Huong serves as Chief Underwriting Officer at Elevate Underwriting, bringing nearly two decades of experience dedicated to construction underwriting. Known for her practical approach to risk and ability to structure solutions on complex projects, she has earned a strong reputation across the Canadian construction insurance market. As CUO, she leads Elevate’s underwriting strategy and guides the team in delivering tailored coverage and consistent, expert support on large-scale construction projects.
Daria Masnyk
Daria Masnyk is Director of Business Operations at at Elevate Underwriting, overseeing day-to-day functions and ensuring regulatory compliance across the business. RIBO-licensed and a CMGA designation holder, she brings a strong foundation in insurance and a focus on efficiency and service. Prior to joining Elevate, she spent three years managing communications, marketing, and events at the Canadian MGA Trade Association.
Board of Directors
Elevate Underwriting benefits from the guidance and oversight of an independent and highly respected Board of Directors. This board brings extensive expertise in insurance, reinsurance, and distribution. Their involvement ensures that Elevate Underwriting operates with financial integrity, adheres to regulatory and ethical standards, and maintains strategic prudence.
Donald Callahan
Don Callahan formally retired in 2025 after leading Guy Carpenter Canada, a subsidiary of Marsh McLennan Companies, as President and CEO. During part of his tenure in Canada, Don also managed Guy Carpenter Latin America including the Caribbean, Mexico and South America. Previously, he served in underwriting management roles at predecessor companies of Swiss Re and Odyssey Re. Don is a graduate of Lower Canada College and McGill University (as a University Scholar) in Montreal. He is an FCIP (top graduating fellow) and attended on-site and industry-specific executive programs at both Harvard and Stanford Universities.
Russ Lewis
Russ Lewis recently retired after a distinguished career in the reinsurance industry, most notably with Everest Re, where he spent over three decades shaping the company’s Canadian presence. He began his career at Prudential and General Reinsurance before joining Everest, where he rose through senior leadership roles and became Chairman of Everest Reinsurance Canada in 2022. In this capacity, he provided strategic counsel, strengthened broker and market relationships, and represented Everest in the Canadian and global markets. Known for his deep expertise and steady leadership, Lewis played a key role in building Everest’s reputation as a leading reinsurer in Canada.