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 staff members to help you get to know them as well.

As a Small Business Advisor on our Commercial Services team with over 10 years in the industry, Itay shares with us his professional background, community work and love of cooking.

1. Where did you grow up and if you moved to the Halifax area, what brought you here? 

I grew up in Tel Aviv, Israel. Halifax has been my home for the last 4 years. My wife and I visited Nova Scotia and fell in love with its nature and its people and decided to relocate here. 

2. Can you highlight your educational background and professional experience?

I have a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Communication. Most of my work experience has been in the financial services industry. I worked for 10 years as a Financial Planner and acquired my Mutual Funds License when I moved to Canada. Before joining CUA I worked as a Banking Advisor.

3. What drew you to banking?

I always liked talking to people, meeting new people, listening to their stories and helping them with their financial needs. Nothing is better than knowing you truly helped someone reach their financial goals.

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

A regular workday for me consists of responding to incoming inquiries from my business members and helping them out with their everyday business banking needs. An important part of my job consists of reviewing and analyzing new and existing business financing requests.

5. What is the best part of your job?

I feel pride and satisfaction from meeting new people, hearing their business ideas and future business plans and witnessing their business dreams coming to life.

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

I learn something new almost every day. I learn something valuable from all of our members and staff members alike, no matter what position they have or how young or old they are.

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

I find that a lot of people nowadays live above their financial means. I truly believe people should live in the moment but still be responsible with their expenses.

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

I love spending time with my wife and kids. We love travelling in general, especially in Nova Scotia, as there’s so much to see and do here. I also like cooking and I’m an avid tennis fan.

9. Do you perform volunteer or community work (boards, committees, sports, etc.) and if so, what?

I have been supporting community efforts for helping Ukrainian families who moved to Nova Scotia. My family and I recently hosted a family from Ukraine and supported their first steps in Canada.

10. What is your favourite meal to cook at home or order at a restaurant?

I love cooking Asian food, and my favorite meal would be Spicy Thai Pork Meatballs. 😊

Email Itay

Meet the CUA Team