"It really is just about a whole bunch of people who have worked very, very hard"
The recognition Mary Putnam (pictured) has received with the Haventree Bank Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Mortgage Industry shines a light not just on her individual career but on the collective accomplishments of Canada Guaranty, the mortgage insurance company she has helped propel to industry prominence.
"For me, it really just signifies that the company I’ve had the pleasure of working with has become a significant player," Putnam told Canadian Mortgage Professional, downplaying her personal role, instead emphasizing the team effort behind the success.
“It really is just about a whole bunch of people who have worked very, very hard."
And, while Putnam is humble about the personal implications of the award, she’s quick to acknowledge its broader significance. It reinforces her steadfast approach to leadership and sales - one rooted in presence and relationships.
"There’s just so many things about determination. Keep showing up, dependability. Always be present. Don’t hide behind a screen. See people, meet people, relationships - that’s how you understand things," she said.
Perseverance over barriers
Putnam’s career is marked by a refusal to let obstacles dictate the path forward.
“Barriers are temporary,” she said, articulating a mindset that has clearly driven her success. "When I see a barrier, I find a way to go around it, go over it, and over time, find a way. I tell my kids all the time that part of parenting is just being dependable. It’s not sexy, but that’s what you’re looking for from your parent. And it’s no different with your business, with whom you work for and with.”
Her philosophy extends beyond merely overcoming challenges. It’s about creating a reliable presence, something Putnam views as essential in fostering trust with clients, colleagues, and partners.
Leadership as listening
For Putnam, leadership in the mortgage industry - or any field - is grounded in a simple yet profound principle: listening. "Listen to your customers," she urged, underscoring the importance of understanding pain points without bias.
"Don’t just listen for the answer you’re looking for. Listen to what they have to say."
This ethos has guided her work at Canada Guaranty and shapes her advice to others in the industry. Putnam’s call to "find your Canada Guaranty" speaks to the value of alignment between personal values and workplace culture.
"Find a company that matches what you wish to deliver, what you wish to do in your career," she advised.
Energizing the everyday
Putnam’s success isn’t tied to glamorous titles or groundbreaking innovations, but to the energy and commitment she brings to every task.
"The job doesn’t matter. I’m in default insurance. I’m sure that is not sexy," she joked. "It is really just about working the hardest that you can and finding the best solutions for everybody. You can only be relevant if you’re listening, showing up, dependable, and committed," she said.
A legacy of impact
Mary Putnam’s lifetime achievement award may be a personal milestone, but it symbolizes far more - a career built on grit, consistency, and the power of listening. It is also a testament to the culture of Canada Guaranty, an organization that exemplifies the values Putnam champions.
“At the event, my last line was, ‘Find your Canada Guaranty’.”
