Two influential women are fostering a more inclusive future in the mortgage industry
This article was produced in partnership with BMO
Kim Champion of Canadian Mortgage Professional America spoke with two women leaders at BMO who are helping take the customer’s broker support to new levels.
Two women leaders who have earned recognition as Women of Influence for 2024 by Canadian Mortgage Professional exemplify BMO’s commitment to responsible business practices and promoting diversity, particularly in supporting women in the mortgage industry.
Guided by the organization’s core purpose to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life, a duo of accomplished women in its fledgling BMO BrokerEdge division, a new residential mortgage lending initiative dedicated to the Canadian broker channel, are successfully driving deep customer relationships and propelling the brand forward.
Paula Oliveira, regional vice president of BMO BrokerEdge for Ontario and Atlantic Canada, says, “I’m thrilled to receive this award, and the recognition of my contributions humbles me. I want to successfully expand BMO’s market presence and cultivate valuable broker relationships, driving business growth and overall customer satisfaction. Of particular focus for me, as BMO continues to build the new BrokerEdge channel, is how can we continue to foster the development of women mortgage professionals.”
Senior business development manager for Southwest Ontario, Barbara Cook, echoes that sentiment, adding, “When I heard BMO was returning to the broker space, I thought what a great opportunity to make an impact on this side of the business, and I made the strategic move in April 2024. My move wasn’t just a career shift but a strategic leap toward a brighter, more inclusive leadership and financial landscape.”
Upon reflecting on being named to CMP’s Women of Influence list, both women leaders emphasize the importance of creating environments where businesses and individuals can succeed, especially through collaboration and inclusion.
They assert there is a unique opportunity to champion diversity and inclusion among the many talented women who are increasingly taking vital roles in shaping a promising future in the mortgage sector.
In Cook’s new role, she passionately works to cultivate valuable broker relationships while driving business growth for the new channel. She is also the chair of the national industry association Mortgage Professionals of Canada.
“As someone passionate about this industry, this role of chair allows me to have a voice to amplify the value of using mortgage professionals to help Canadians make real financial progress and the dream of home ownership,” she says.
As regional vice president of the newly launched broker channel, Oliveira’s multifaceted and pivotal role includes forming and guiding a high-performing sales team and relationship managers, strategically partnering with brokers, championing financial inclusion, and supporting diversity.
Oliveira says, “Receiving this award fills me with immense joy and gratitude. The increasing presence of women in the mortgage industry is truly inspiring. Women are not only helping to shape the industry but are also pivotal in advancing financial inclusion and facilitating home ownership, a significant step towards wealth-building for many families.”’
Cook adds, “Change is never easy, but we have options, including stepping forward into growth. Women are helping shape the financial services industry, providing progress and empowerment for change and inclusion.”
The Women of Influence pay tribute to the exceptional women leaders they work alongside daily, including Christina Tsiokos, Courtney Kencher, and Angelica Kussler as well.
Bank of Montreal (BMO) is a leading Canadian lender.
