As the Associate Director of Compliance and Risk Management for MCAP, Steven Edwards’ role plays an integral part in the success and security of Canada’s largest independent Mortgage Finance Company. Whether he’s leading and managing staff, providing support to MCAP personnel relating to our Code of Business Conduct, or leading the implementation and management of risk oversight initiatives, Steven plays a key role in protecting MCAP’s reputation and driving sustainable growth by ensuring compliance requirements are met by applying practical business solutions.
A Rich Background in the Financial Field
Before starting his journey with MCAP nearly 4 years ago, Steven worked at one of Canada’s big 6 banks in a variety of roles, including Customer Service, Sales, Talent Management, Leadership, Product Management, Policy and Payments (for the Bank and as a consultant). As he explains, “Risk and Compliance was the common theme through all my experiences. I developed a passion for it working as a Relationship Account Manager where I worked closely with Risk Managers that adjudicated loan applications in the Small and Medium-sized business market.”
This diverse background led Steven to policy management, leading and managing a suite of internal products and operational policies, and regulatory compliance – all of which he was able to put to good use when he joined the MCAP team. As expected, risk and compliance can present some complex and unique challenges – but Steven and his team handle them with confidence. “We live in a world of right and wrong, black and white, and sometimes we find ourselves in between,” he explains. “My role, along with my Risk and Compliance team colleagues, is to help you navigate those in-between situations for the best outcomes that protect and enhance MCAP’s reputation.”
“We have exceptional talent, but more importantly, exceptional people at MCAP.”
The MCAP Difference
When it comes to working at MCAP and what sets the team apart, Steven highlights the camaraderie, pride, and passion each person brings to their role. “We have exceptional talent, but more importantly, exceptional people at MCAP,” he shares. “Everyone I have ever reached out to has been very gracious with their time in providing me with their insights, advice and suggestions.”
The people at MCAP have played a central role in his growth and development over the years, one of them being Steven’s manager. “My manager is very supportive with respect to career and personal development,” Steven explains. “I meet with her periodically to discuss my career plans and seek advice, guidance, etc. She has helped me to identify challenging developmental opportunities within my role that are beneficial to my current role but also as development for future roles.”
“Be open to learning from others — regardless of hierarchy or seniority. Everyone has something to teach. Listen with humility, learn with intention.”
Blue Culture: The Strength Behind What We Do
Blue Culture is at the heart of what MCAP is all about, and from Steven’s perspective, our Code of Business Conduct, culture, and how we conduct business are all interrelated. “Our values are the foundation; Our Code isn’t just rules and regulations; it’s a guide to how we work together with integrity and purpose each day to the benefit of MCAP’s stakeholders, both internal and external. Living our values is Blue Culture.”
Embracing the Journey
For Steven, growth and development aren’t things that just happen passively; he actively pursues them and challenges himself to be better professionally and personally. When asked what his best career advice would be, he shares that “change is a journey not a destination. Fear and discomfort are normal parts of the process that can be uncomfortable. They are also steps in the direction of growth and progress. Embrace change and get comfortable being uncomfortable.”
