1. Where did you grow up and, if not in Nova Scotia, what brought you here?

I was born in Ottawa and moved to Charlottetown at age 7, where I stayed for 15 years after graduating University. Like many East Coasters, I decided to follow an opportunity out West, which led me to spending time in Vancouver, Maple Ridge, Penticton, Prince Rupert, and Prince George, before moving to Ontario for roles in  Chatham, Windsor, London, and Toronto. After more than a decade of being away from family and friends in the Maritimes, I learned of an opportunity to join CUA and moved to Halifax just under 10 years ago.

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

I have always been interested in finances and money, even from a young age, which drew me to the idea of a career in financial services. After high school, I did an undergraduate in business administration at UPEI and after some time working in various roles, completed an MBA in financial services at Dalhousie University. With 25 years of banking experience across Canada, I can say it’s a career choice that has given me many opportunities to learn and grow. I enjoy sharing some of my own stories and advice with students who are preparing to embark on their own career.

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

Like many, the past year has been very different as we implemented various preventative measures to keep our staff and members safe. Normally my day starts at 7 a.m. with a quick review of the day ahead. I usually have a number of meetings booked each day with various members of the CUA Team who each lead their own teams responsible for products and services, member satisfaction, growing CUA’s brand and business, and more. Every discussion and decision always starts and ends with the member being top of mind.   

4. What is the best part of your job?

Aside from knowing the work I’m leading every day is having a direct impact on the financial health of our members, I really enjoy bringing together experts from across the organization as part of our commitment to continuous improvement. Together, we solve problems, find a way forward through challenging scenarios, and create new and innovative ways to help members and those who are serving them.

5. What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned in your career?

Bringing a mindset that is solution oriented is key, but the real secret sauce is bringing positivity to every
interaction.

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

Start saving as early as you can, and spend some time reading about the impact of compound interest. While 10-20% is an ideal amount to save, putting even small amounts consistently into a savings program can provide flexibility, buying power and financial freedom in the future.

7. Outside of your professional life, what are some activities or hobbies you enjoy?

I have a lot of hobbies and interests, but biking would be my favorite—mainly mountain biking but also road biking.  When it comes to where I spend time, basketball is a close second, I used to play forward and have coached youth teams in Toronto and Halifax for the past 15 years.

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

Most definitely Thai food, either at home or at a restaurant, though whenever we order in, we love supporting locally owned entrepreneurs who are helping to strengthen Nova Scotia’s economy.

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Meet the CUA Team

Our experienced and dedicated team are passionate about helping our personal and commercial members improve their confidence and knowledge of financial matters. Meet the team »