Brigitte Deault: Listening to build trust and strong relationships

BD: I started in April 2015 as a Funder. Within my first year, I was promoted twice, first to AMU and then to Underwriter. I was definitely up for the challenge. In 2021, during the pandemic, Manulife launched in Montreal. I moved over to that group and became a Manager and Team Lead. In September 2024, I was promoted to Assistant Vice President. It’s an incredible opportunity for me, and I’m grateful for it. 

BD: I started one month before the opening of the TD division. There was a buzz of excitement in the air, with lots of opportunities and people moving around. Getting two promotions in that year was a bit of a whirlwind, and I learned a lot. 

BD: It happened within the first few months, especially when I became an Underwriter. I felt like I was appreciated and valued. I always aspired to that role, and it was a big goal of mine when I started at First National. I had worked as a mortgage broker previously, and I loved working with the First National underwriters. 

BD: Every promotion has been a milestone. And staying sane through the pandemic with how hard we were all working was an incredible accomplishment. Becoming a manager during the pandemic stands out for me. We were dealing with so much while building a team and coaching new people. 

BD: I’m a very curious person. I always want to know more and understand the why. That approach influences how I coach people. If they come to me for an answer, I don’t just give an answer, I go into the whys and hows. Knowledge is power. I want my team members to have the tools and confidence to be autonomous. I want to inspire them to be curious as well. 

BD: I am proud of how I contributed to the successful launch of Manulife in Montreal. A lot of the team was brand new, and we had to work together to create this new team through the pandemic. The Directors and Managers were learning and getting up to speed while we were coaching these people through everything. It brought us all very close together as a tight knit group. 

BD: In January 2022, I attended my first in-person manager meeting in Vancouver. It was a great few days. I met colleagues from all over Canada and realized how powerful and pervasive First National’s values are. It was so easy to connect, talk to people, get to know them and exchange ideas. I look forward to those meetings every year and am privileged to be part of them. 

BD: We earn trust. I’ve always valued providing good service to everyone – team members, brokers, the sales team and insurers. If you listen, you can always provide a solution or common ground. That builds trust, which is essential for strong relationships. 

BD: I have a great sense of pride working at First National as a woman. I have always felt that if I was the right person for the job, I would be considered for it. My advancement is proof of that. I am also proud to be a female leader at First National. We have so many great role models to look up to. I’ve been lucky to work with some of them including Elsa Carter and Linda Craenen. They embody strength, grace and kindness, which are qualities that really resonate with me.  

BD: We are all unique and different. Our diversity is one of the things that makes First National so special. Celebrating and eating together are great ways to get to know each other on a more personal level. Knowing each other as people contributes to the inclusive environment and strengthens our team.

BD: Show up every day. Learn as much as you can about the position you are seeking. Be curious. Let management know where you want your career to take you. Back up those words and aspirations with hard work and dedication.  

BD: I was shy when I first started out and kept to myself. But I realized how important it is to have the courage to voice your opinion and share your ideas. I blossomed in my career when I started doing that. I’m still happy, energized and excited to be here after 10 years.