What has kept you at First National this long?
CP: I have been fortunate to spend most of my career at First National, and it’s always been my home. I’ve stayed because of the positive work environment and culture. I’ve always been surrounded by incredible people, built meaningful friendships, and there is a real sense of community. Leadership is incredibly supportive, and we work together as a team. Our culture values, collaboration, employee appreciation and growth within the company.
Which growth opportunities have you taken advantage of?
CP: Shadowing and mentorship have been an important part of my career growth and contributions to the team. I have always been part of the Ontario team but worked with different teams in the Toronto office. For example, my previous manager helped me refine my underwriting skills by encouraging me to discover and implement solutions that were more efficient than what I was previously doing. He also helped us improve our communication with brokers, especially in high conflict or stressful situations. Just because I’ve been an Underwriter for many years doesn’t mean I should ever stop learning. First National creates a productive space for mentorship and opportunities to add alternative perspectives, viewpoints and approaches to how you do things.
What are you most proud to have helped build or shape, and why was it meaningful?
CP: It’s rewarding to help clients achieve their dreams of home ownership. That’s why I’m so passionate about what I do. Recently we had a family who has a son with special needs. Nobody else would look at the file due to a very tight financing, so the family missed out on so many offers. We worked the file and helped them buy their forever home just in time for the holidays. Seeing her son overcome with joy, the mother told her broker it was the happiest day for her since becoming a mom. We see so many files every day, and it’s so rewarding to hear a story like this. It brings real meaning to what we do.
When did you know you found your place at First National?
CP: I knew on my first day. I felt very welcome right away. In 20 years, I’ve built a community both personally and professionally. First National is my family. You spend so much time with your co-workers, so it’s important to feel connection and comfort and be able to approach people and work together collaboratively. I feel blessed call First National home for the past 20 years and I’m excited to see what the next 20 years hold.
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given yourself on your first day?
CP: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Take on each challenge as a learning opportunity. Build strong relationships. Find a good mentor. The rewards aren’t just in the work, but also in the incredible people that work alongside you. When you become a mentor yourself, take time to really listen, be positive and create a space where people feel comfortable to speak freely and ask questions. Support your team members in a respectful manner and treat everyone as an equal. Those are the keys to success and growth for yourself and your team.
