Branch Manager Mike Caron focused on helping members move forward

Albert Einstein once said that life was like riding a bicycle - the only way to keep balance is to keep moving forward. When it comes to life, work and leisure, Mike Caron does just that, seeking momentum wherever he goes. Reflecting on life and his nearly 40 years in the financial industry, Mike is quick to credit others: "I've always found myself surrounded by caring, hard-working people."

Early learnings

Born in Quebec, Mike spent his childhood in Campbellton, New Brunswick – a small, rural town of 5,000 residents.  As an entrepreneur, Mike’s father owned a real estate company and always encouraged his children to seize the moment.  Mike’s mother believed in the importance of planning, working hard and finding a good job to make a decent living.  As the only boy amongst his siblings, Mike admits he pushed the limits in his younger years, giving his father a run for his money.

“He saw a lot of himself in me,” Mike says, recalling being drawn to adventures on the slopes of Sugarloaf Mountain, studying abroad and visiting countries including Spain, Austria and Italy. “Studying abroad taught me a lot about culture, the value of diverse life experiences and how much I enjoyed meeting new people.”

The journey to CUA

Inspired to expand on his sense of adventure, Mike moved to Toronto to begin his career in the financial industry.  He began a long and rewarding career with one of Canada’s largest financial institutions in 1989, working in a number of positions and growing passionate about the connection between home ownership and financial wellness.  “I learned a lot and eventually grew eager for a change that would bring me closer to home,” he says.  “When a role was posted in Halifax, managing mortgages across Atlantic Canada, I made the move without hesitation.”

Having known about the benefits of community-based banking for some time, Mike was intrigued by a phone call from CUA in the fall of 2015.  At the time, CUA was searching for a Branch Manager.

“He’s a wealth of knowledge,” says fellow Branch Manager Myra Lucia. “Mike’s experience is valuable to the entire CUA team.  He’s fair, fun and keeps people accountable in a positive way.” Myra adds that Mike’s demeanor balances well against his desire to achieve what matters most to his team and all CUA members.

“I love coming to work every day – it’s always an adventure,” says Mike, admitting his favourite part of the job is seeing the reaction when people realize their dream of home ownership. “I love rolling up my sleeves and working with the team to find a solution, so we can say “yes” to members, helping them get ahead.  Member goals are our only goals, and every day I get to see the difference CUA is making for everyday people – no matter where they are in life.

At CUA’s Annex and Spryfield locations, Mike thrives on being a constant coach for his team, going above and beyond to guide, motivate and support them along the way. “Mike’s extensive background in the financial industry isn’t only valuable to his team, but to the entire CUA team,” says Myra Lucia, Branch Manager. “He is a wealth of knowledge and provides tremendous support to members and CUA staff, who know they can depend on him to fully support them. He’s fair, fun and has the ability to keep his team accountable in a positive way."

If you've been considering a new banking option, look no further. Mike and the entire CUA team are here to help. Contact us at 902.492.6500 or info@cua.com for more information.