Cole Harbour Branch Manager

At CUA, we pride ourselves on knowing our customers and having customers get to know our staff, including those who look after the day-to-day operations of our branches. We recently sat down with one of our Branch Managers to help you get to know them as well.

Brenna Warner joined CUA in 2021. Brenna has over twenty years of experience in banking and financial services as well as an extensive managerial background. You can find her leading her team and assisting CUA members at the Cole Harbour Branch in Dartmouth.

1. Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Cape Breton and, although I went to school with some very talented Celtic artists, I cannot play the fiddle. I moved to Halifax to attend university and spent almost 20 years here. I travelled extensively with a former employer but settled back in Halifax two years ago.

2. Can you highlight your background/training/education/experience?

I worked for a large bank for almost 20 years. I then worked with an investment firm before starting with CUA. I have held management roles for over fifteen years.

3. What drew you to banking?

When I shifted from working a “job” to choosing a career, I knew I wanted to do something where I could make a difference in peoples’ lives. That’s what lead me to banking.

4. What does a “regular” workday look like for you?

I like to get an early start. In the morning, I check my emails and plan for my day over a cup of coffee. Most of my day is spent with my team and CUA members. I like to have a pulse on member and team satisfaction, and I am passionate about enriching the lives of my team through training and the lives of members through helping them achieve their financial goals.

5. What is the best part of your job?

The best part of my job is being able to make an impact on someone and guiding them to achieve their desired goals. There is no greater reward in life than helping someone achieve success.

6. How would you describe your leadership style?

I am a guide and resource to help people reach their potential. I believe in an open-door policy and two-way communication. I value feedback from members and my team and use this information to make improvements as necessary.

7. Since being in your role with CUA, what is the most valuable thing you’ve learned?

That you never stop learning. After twenty years in the financial industry, I find that one can always learn something new or learn a new way of doing things.

8. What is one piece of financial advice that you believe everyone should follow?

Stick to your plan. Whether it’s a saving strategy, debt management solution, or a plan for the unexpected, follow through with your agreed-upon actions.

9. Outside of your professional life, what is your favourite activity or hobby?

I enjoy walking on the beach to gather sea glass and then trying to discover where the glass came from. I enjoy learning new meals and baked goods to serve to my friends (who also love food!). A great way to experience more of the world is trying food from different cultures.

10. Do you perform volunteer or community work?

I have been a member of Rotary International for many years and believe in supporting local as much as possible.

11. What is your favourite meal to cook at home/order at a restaurant?

I love to experiment in the kitchen. Whether baking or trying new recipes, I love to learn new skills. It’s hard to pick a favourite but Thai food is one of my go-to meals for ordering out and making at home.

Email Brenna