Ida Guilbault: An experienced mortgage underwriter
Name: Ida Guilbault
Role: Underwriter with Bridgewater Bank
Years worked in financial services: 30+
Work location: Calgary, Alberta
Superpower: Customizing a solution
When you talk to an underwriter at another bank, it’s unlikely you’re speaking with someone who has as much experience as Bridgewater Bank‘s Ida Guilbault. Her dedication to the art and science of putting together mortgage deals and her straightforward communication style have led to a life-long career in underwriting.
The path to alternative lending
Q: Why did you decide to work in the mortgage industry?
Ida: Earlier in my career, I was an account manager. My job covered the full spectrum of banking activities, and I found I enjoyed the lending part much more than the rest.
Q: What led you to Bridgewater Bank?
Ida: I worked for a trust company and furthered my education through correspondence while I built my career and cared for my family. I had a job at a larger bank, but the opportunity at Bridgewater Bank came just when I wanted to make a change. I’ve been with Bridgewater Bank for 19 years now.
Q: What’s your favourite part of being an Underwriter?
Ida: The variety. I’ve been in alt lending as an underwriter for 19 years. I’ve been asked if I get tired of it, but I don’t because it’s not a monotonous job. Every deal is different, so you’re not doing the same thing every day.
Q: In the span of your career, what are you most proud of?
Ida: I received a Canadian Mortgage Award for Best Lender Underwriter of the Year in 2017 and was a finalist for the same award in 2020 and 2022. I’m glad I still have the same passion for the work as I did when I first started.
On a personal note
Q: If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?
Ida: The Netherlands. My family is from there, and I have relatives there, so I’d like to visit them.
Q: If we asked your best friend to describe you, what would they say?
Ida: They would say that I am a strong person, who has overcome adversity, and yet, I’m very much a happy person.
Q: What’s a skill you’d like to learn and why?
Ida: I’ve always wanted to learn how to ski.
Final thoughts
Q: Do you want to share some final thoughts about your job?
Ida: I love working at Bridgewater Bank. It’s a company that is good to both its employees and the brokers we work with. I’ve worked with many of the same mortgage brokers and underwriters for years, and communication is key to good relationships. Good people skills are essential in my underwriter position. I’m always in touch, even if it’s just to let someone know I have their paperwork and when I’ll get back to them.
It’s important for brokers to realize that the underwriting process is not black-and-white. We use our problem-solving skills to think outside the box, and if there is any way possible to get the deal done, we’ll find it.