At MCAP, our broker relationships are integral to our homeowners’ experience. We rely on brokers to help simplify the mortgage process, match buyers with the right mortgage, and provide guidance and support along the way.
This is why Tara Fels’ role is so important to the MCAP organization. As Senior Manager, Broker Programs & Engagement, her team works closely with MCAP sales leaders and their teams to develop, support, and execute initiatives to build and strengthen those crucial broker relationships. Her team also supports and helps implement corporate initiatives that have a direct impact on broker partnerships.
Tara’s role specifically involves a great deal of collaboration – not just with her direct team members but with individuals from other areas of MCAP as well. This cross-functional outreach allows her to build relationships throughout MCAP and ensure she can meet the needs of sales teams, brokers, and other teams that directly support the homebuyer process.
Building Relationships Has Led to Success
After beginning her career at ATB Financial as a sales assistant to several mortgage specialists in the new construction division, she gained exposure to MCAP’s Edmonton office. She pursued a job opening on the client underwriting team, where she was hired and spent four years learning all things underwriting. Following this stage of her career, she transitioned to a sales role and relocated to Vancouver, spending over 10 years in a role that allowed her to build strong relationships with broker partners. In that position, she gained a better understanding of broker needs and how she – and MCAP – could best meet them.
In December 2021, Tara transitioned to her current role in Broker Programs & Engagement and feels her previous experience – particularly in building relationships across and beyond the organization – has benefited her considerably. What’s more, gaining underwriting and sales experience has allowed her to use this knowledge in a different capacity and succeed in her current mandate.
Drawing from Experience, Leaning into Resources
Beyond drawing from the backpack of skills she accumulated through her previous roles, Tara has leveraged MCAP resources to grow professionally. From coaching sessions with team leaders to participating in value-add sessions both corporately and within her team and accessing LinkedIn learning courses and challenges, she feels greatly supported by MCAP when to comes to learning and development. What’s more, she has accessed the health and wellness resources available at MCAP.
“We are strongly encouraged to take care of our mental and physical well-being, along with maintaining a healthy balance of personal and work time.”
Consistency, Connection and Respect: How Blue Culture Comes to Life
As Tara explains, MCAP Blue Culture encourages an environment that fosters teamwork and collaboration, respecting others’ opinions and input, clearly communicating expectations, and being treated fairly. For Tara, MCAP Blue Culture delivers squarely on the three core principles of Consistency, Connection, and Respect.
“In turn, MCAP Blue Culture enhances our engagement, and we feel valued, which leads to improved productivity across our different teams.”
MCAP Blue Culture also encompasses customers, and Tara’s team is guided by the same philosophies – trust, respect, and open communication – which lead to stronger relationships and success for both MCAP and their customers.
In a role that insists on teamwork and collaboration, Tara is employing skills she truly enjoys. She encourages others to choose a career based on doing what you love, to never stop learning and to make self-care a priority.
