Executives
(l to r)

Wilf Bedard,
Vice-President,
Claims Operations &
Service Delivery

Marilyn McLaren,
President & Chief Executive Officer

Kevin McCulloch,
Vice-President,
Legal, General Counsel &
Corporate Secretary

Dan Guimond,
Vice-President,
Business Innovation
& Insurance Operations

Don Palmer,
Vice-President,
Finance & Chief Financial Officer

Wayne Wedge,
Vice-President,
Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

MaryAnn Kempe,
Vice-President,
Human Resources & Public Affairs

Message from the President

At its most basic level, an annual report provides a snapshot of a corporation’s performance during a given year. Financial data traditionally take centre stage, but the report also reflects progress that can’t be measured by numbers alone.

This year we look back on our accomplishments in 2008 with much pride, knowing the seeds we’ve sown will fully take root in 2009.

Our progress during the past year can be traced back to 2004, when we assumed responsibility for Driver and Vehicle Licensing. The merger of these operations into our infrastructure opened up many new opportunities to improve the way we do business.

Many of us began advocating for such a merger a decade earlier when it became clear it was the foundation from which we could launch an array of service improvements. Now, as we look back at 2008, we can truly say that we have fulfilled that promise.

In 2008, we realized the single greatest opportunity stemming from the merger – the creation of the Driver Safety Rating. In the fall of 2008 we introduced the basic concept to Manitobans during public consultations, and we were gratified by the positive response. Manitobans agreed that it will give drivers a rating system they understand while providing higher rewards for driving safely.

The 2004 merger also allowed us to lay the groundwork this year for many other improvements – including a more convenient renewal process, lower operating costs and more efficient use of facilities – which we are ready to roll out in the months ahead. The value and convenience we provide to customers will reach a new high in the coming year.

These advances would not be possible without a solid foundation of financial stability. I’m pleased to report that in 2008 we finally overcame one of our most persistent and troubling cost-drivers. Through a sustained team effort, Manitoba has reversed the auto theft epidemic and controlled a serious threat to community safety.

All of these achievements demonstrate why public auto insurance is absolutely the best program for Manitobans, and why the merger of insurance and licensing services was the right decision for our province. Thanks to the commitment of our employees, and their willingness to rise to new challenges, we’ve capitalized on those opportunities. In doing so, we’ve secured a future that we can look forward to with pride.

Marilyn McLaren
President and Chief Executive Officer