As the founder and controlling shareholder of one of the country’s largest insurance, risk management and benefits firms, Barry F. Lorenzetti has built an enterprise with scale and momentum. Over time, it has grown into a wider network under the Lorenzetti Group’s family business, expanding into media, hospitality and entertainment.
The family business is led by Susan Dabrowski, Barry’s Chief of Staff. Barry says he’s “very fortunate to have someone of Sue’s background and experience leading the charge which at times can be very challenging.”
Barry is also the philanthropic force behind the Barry F. Lorenzetti Foundation, which supports frontline mental health care led by his daughter, clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Maggie Lorenzetti Dorfman.
Decades of success have shaped a mindset that’s decisive, driven and clear-eyed.
“One vision and one direction for all” Lorenzetti affirms.
But away from the boardroom, the proudly Canadian business leader marches to the beat of a lighter rhythm—and it’s not the gentle patter of tee shots on the back nine.
“Getting me on a golf course? Not fun!” he grins. “After 12 holes I’m on another planet.”
At their estate in rural Knowlton, Quebec, life’s pace takes a more personal beat for Lorenzetti, his wife Carine Watier-Lorenzetti and their two dogs, Berlin the German Shepherd and Portia the Goldendoodle. There, the relationships and rituals that give shape to a full life come into sharper relief.
The large property includes a separate building that houses a private showroom, where a curated collection of vintage cars doubles as a gallery of memories and milestones.
Lorenzetti recalls advice from fellow Montreal business leader Lino Saputo Sr., who once told him: “Pour a glass of Brunello, sit with the cars and let the memories do their work.”
“I tried it,” he says. “And you know, it works – makes me forget a bad day.”
That sense of ease follows the couple to their home in St. Helena, California, where the vineyard landscape offers a quiet change of scenery. But whether in Napa or Knowlton, the value of time shared in the company of family and close friends creates the richest moments.
Lorenzetti’s voice warms when he speaks of his wife, his grandson, and the holiday occasions when his three grown children (Maggie, Justin and Jenna) and extended family can align their busy schedules to gather.
“We love that. There is nothing better than sitting around the table with family and friends. Being with genuine folks is the best – can’t be replaced” he says. Music is another constant. Lorenzetti plays for the simple joy of it, whether at home or with friends. He is also a permanent fixture playing his music at the Family Foundation Gala in September each year.
Because slowing down isn’t an option. Lorenzetti has mastered the art of making moments count.
“As I get older with more years behind me than ahead, it is so important to be around sincere and genuine people who I thoroughly enjoy being with.”
But, as Paul McCartney recently stated, “I’m here until 100!”