NextGen Benefits
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Our people

Meet the team behind better benefits.

We bring curiosity, experience and practical innovation to every benefits program—helping employers and employees get better results year after year.

About NextGen Benefits

Practical experience. Better outcomes.

NextGen Benefits is a Canadian employee benefits advisory firm helping small and mid-sized companies and not-for-profits build programs that are cost-effective, sustainable and valued by employees.

Our team combines decades of experience with technology, Lean principles and a listen-first approach. We make complex choices understandable and bring together workable innovations that improve results for employers and employees year after year.

Who We Are

The people behind NextGen Benefits.

This is not an exhaustive list of our team, but it gives you an idea of who you might be working with.

Sam Price, a member of the NextGen Benefits Canadian benefits team

Sam Price

Group Benefits Broker

Sam brings a blend of big-city experience and small-town values to every relationship. Raised in rural Ontario, she developed a strong appreciation for hard work, community and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives small organizations and not-for-profits to succeed.

Known for her approachable style and dedication to client success, Sam takes the time to understand each organization’s unique challenges and opportunities and match them with the right tailored solutions.

Sam believes strong relationships are built on trust, responsiveness and delivering value. She works tirelessly to ensure people feel supported every step of the way.

Outside of work, Sam embraces new experiences, truly living the mantra that variety is the spice of life. She might take in a Jays game, winery hop, catch a monster salmon and take a pottery class all in the same weekend!

Scott Heelis, a member of the NextGen Benefits Canadian benefits team

Scott Heelis

Individual Specialist

Scott is a dedicated life insurance, critical illness and disability insurance specialist who is passionate about helping individuals and their families protect their health and wealth.

Known for his professionalism, integrity and ability to simplify complex insurance concepts, Scott works closely with clients to ensure they understand their options and feel confident with their decisions. His commitment to building long-term relationships and delivering exceptional service has earned him the trust of people across Canada.

He is a proud girl dad and spends most of his family time at the golf course or a figure skating competition.

Mel Coombs, a member of the NextGen Benefits Canadian benefits team

Mel Coombs

Group Benefits Associate

Hailing from Heart’s Desire, Newfoundland, Mel brings East Coast warmth, authenticity and a people-first approach.

She’s passionate about helping clients navigate their benefits programs with confidence, providing thoughtful support and personalized service.

Away from the office, she loves to travel, especially somewhere warm with her fiancé, adventure with friends and get cuddles from her cat Daisy.

Mark Chenard, a member of the NextGen Benefits Canadian benefits team

Mark Chenard

Group Retirement Broker

A CPA by designation, Mark began his career as an accountant, giving him a strong foundation in financial planning, business operations and helping organizations make informed decisions.

His purpose is to help Canadian employers better retain and attract quality employees by helping the Canadian workforce and their families achieve financial security.

He is an avid Canadiens fan, loves music and is known as the biggest green thumb in the group retirement industry.

Marianne Lake, a member of the NextGen Benefits Canadian benefits team

Marianne Lake

Group Benefits & Group Retirement Administrator

Starting her professional career in legal services, Mar has developed exceptional attention to detail, strong analytical skills and a commitment to helping people navigate complex situations with confidence.

Born and raised in South Africa, she also brings a refreshingly global perspective, which helps her relate to and understand some of the more unique challenges that can be faced in our industry.

Most of her spare time is spent with her loving husband and three beautiful children. Go Springboks!

Let’s work together

Your better benefits program starts with a conversation.

Talk to our team