“They treat you like part of the family.”

—Long-time Gryphon client

Gryphon is a leader in providing employee benefits, consulting, and individual insurance protection. We work with you to ensure best-in-class solutions and service that exceeds expectations. Founded in 2011, Gryphon is dedicated to helping you protect your future.

The gryphon \ˈgri-fən\ is a majestic, legendary creature with the head, talons, and wings of an eagle and the body of a lion.

 

In Greek mythology, gryphons built nests high in mountain peaks, and scoured the land, using their natural instincts to uncover buried gold and precious gems. They laid eggs of agate and soon their wealth became the target of mountain lions and thieves. The gryphons developed a reputation as fierce guardians of their treasure, and for centuries they have been portrayed as symbols of strength and vigilance.

 

The gryphon name and logo embody the spirit of our firm. It is a spirit of protection, and one that conveys the strength, stability, and integrity of our products and services.

Patrik Foff, President

CFP, RHU, B.Comm


Patrik has specialized in employee benefits consulting for 22 years. He received a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta, started his career at Great-West Life (now Canada Life!), and earned the CFP designation in 2010. Patrik’s knowledge and experience allow him to critically review benefit programs and provide strategies for unique, cost-effective improvements. Clients appreciate his energy, honesty, and down-to-earth approach.

When he needs a break, Patrik can usually be found in the water. He is a former nationally ranked swimmer in 50m freestyle and loves surfing. Patrik and his wife, Leanne, love traveling, German board games, and running after their three kids.

Marek Foff, Consultant

CFP, CLU, Ch.F.C.


Marek started his insurance career in 1983 with New York Life. He provides clients with a wealth of knowledge, accurate financial planning, and sound advice for the future. Marek reached the pinnacle in the industry, earning designations as a certified financial planner, chartered life underwriter, and chartered financial consultant. His sharp analytical skills and no-nonsense approach give clients clear answers in complex insurance situations.

Marek’s two favourite hobbies are pickle ball and bridge. He is somewhat addicted to pickle ball these days and competes in tournaments across North America. In November 2022, Marek even qualified for US nationals in Palm Springs! Marek and his wife Vera also enjoy cross-country skiing and spending time with their grandchildren.

Helena Foff, Consultant

CFP, B.Sc.


Helena completed her Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Alberta. In 2006, she transitioned to the insurance industry as living benefits manager with one of Canada’s leading insurance carriers.

Helena has earned the Certified Financial Planner® designation, and she brings a commitment to excellence in client relationships.

Helena’s passions are truly diverse, including volleyball, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and violin. She has managed to visit all seven continents, finishing with a trek to Antarctica in 2007. For some “downtime”, Helena sips lattés and chases after her three children: Owen, Leah, and Sarah.

Avril Durward, Client Relationship Specialist

GBA, ACS


Avril has over 16 years of group benefits experience–including time with two of Canada’s major insurers–and a vast knowledge of claims processing, policy implementation, and administrative methods. Avril’s true passion, however, is connecting with people face-to-face, and she loves sharing and educating through presentations and group meetings.

In her spare time, Avril and her husband enjoy travelling; either camping in their trailer or flying to more exotic destinations like Costa Rica. She is a passionate NFL fan, and on Sundays you can usually catch her cheering on her favourite team: the Denver Broncos.

Suzie Murray, Client Relationship Specialist


Suzie has spent the past 10 years in the financial services industry with a background in banking and investments. For the last 4 years, she has specialized in employee benefits, including Group RRSPs and Group Critical Illness. She is fully licensed for both Life and Accident and Sickness insurance since 2010. Suzie’s attention to detail and vast knowledge of insurance forms makes her an enormous asset for Gryphon clients.

Outside of work Suzie is very active, and you will likely find her out on Edmonton’s trail system, running or biking with her dog, Louie. She is also an avid skier and a former registered massage therapist.

Laurie Craig, Analyst


Laurie was born and raised in Edmonton, and attended the University of Alberta, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Laurie then spent 20 years in HR in the oil and gas sector, and joined Gryphon Benefits in early 2022. She is hardworking, detail oriented and is excited to connect with Gryphon clients and assist them with all aspects of their employee benefit programs.

Laurie resides in Calgary, but thankfully still cheers for the Oilers. She enjoys traveling to Palm Springs, investing and spending time with her husband and children.

Brittney Ketsa, Client Relationship Specialist


Brittney graduated from the Social Work Program at MacEwan University in 2014. In 2016, she pivoted to the insurance industry and has never looked back. Brittney’s recent roles have included disability case management, and team leadership with various major insurance providers. She is passionate, efficient, and client-centered.

Outside of work, Brittney loves travel, spending time with her husband, and running after her 2 children, Ren and Quinn. She also enjoys Agatha Christie mysteries and improving her skills at 10-pin bowling.

Ashley Craig, Administration


Ashley is a dedicated professional currently pursuing a Business Administration diploma through online studies at the University of Victoria. Ashley brings a strategic and determined mindset to the team with her commitment to personal and professional growth.

Born and raised in Edmonton, Ashley enjoys spending time and making memories with friends, family, and her two German Shepherds, Jake and Bentley. Outside of work you may see Ashley enjoying country concerts or cheering on the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Engaged in our local community and around the world.
At Gryphon, we are dedicated to helping alleviate poverty in our world and we also passionately support our local communities. We support many local charities and non-profit organizations by sponsoring, volunteering, and actively championing their work. We work hard to be positive ambassadors and promote the great work of our many non-profit clients.

Our two signature charities are Kindred Hearts Cambodia Foundation and WILDNorth.

Kindred Hearts Cambodia Foundation
In 2011, Gryphon co-founded Kindred Hearts Cambodia Foundation (KHC). With a desire to help the hurting people of this country, KHC promotes the improvement of health and education of women, and children in remote parts of Cambodia. KHC provides free medical aid, with the main goal of increasing the accessibility and availability of health care in hard-to-reach areas.
With Gryphon’s support, the Kindred Hearts Medical Clinic in Stung Treng was established in June 2013, and continues to expand its services to serve the area’s local residents.

WILDNorth
WILDNorth (formerly the Wildlife Rehabilitation Society of Edmonton) has always been close to the heart of Patrik Foff. The main goal of WILDNorth is to help wounded and orphaned animals and Gryphon has proudly supported this organization since 2008, both by volunteering and also through corporate donations. Gryphon is incredibly grateful for the tremendous work done by the staff and volunteers at WILDNorth, and looks forward to helping out with the rehabilitation of many more little, and big, critters!