Unveiling the force behind two territories: Atlantic Canada and SW Ontario BDM Paul Delaney

Name: Paul Delaney

Role: Business Development Manager with Bridgewater Bank

Years worked in financial services: 28

Work location: Ontario and Atlantic Canada

Superpower: Attentive and responsive to mortgage broker inquiries

If you have a question about alternative lending, Paul Delaney can get you an answer. As a business development manager with Bridgewater Bank, Paul’s focus is on building great relationships with brokers, backed up by Bridgewater’s people-focused approach to lending.

Back in 2020, Paul was laser-focused on the Ontario market. He proved his worth there, so fast forward to October 2023, when we decided to enter the major hubs of Atlantic Canada. When you’ve got a Newfoundlander in the crew, why not let him wrangle the rocky shores of his homeland? So, naturally, Paul added Atlantic Canada to his territory. We are excited to see him bring his salty wit to this market.

The path to Bridgewater Bank

Q: Tell us a little bit about your work background.

Paul: I have been in the lending/mortgage loan industry for 28 years. Fifteen of those years were with Wells Fargo. I then spent five years as a branch manager at CIBC and five years as a senior mortgage underwriter with MCAP. I’ve been with Bridgewater Bank since March 2020. It’s been a great three years with Bridgewater Bank. Everyone is so welcoming, and you can tell they really like working there.

Q: What is your alternative lending experience?

Paul: My 15 years with Wells Fargo were focused on alternative lending, and I’ve spent the last three and a half years with Bridgewater Bank, so you could say alternative lending is in my blood. I can’t imagine focusing on anything else. Alternative lending requires more thought and process. It also allows me to spend time with my brokers, which is my favourite part of the job, working out a deal and finding ways around problems.

Q: What drew you to the mortgage industry?

Paul: It is a challenging and evolving industry where no two days are the same. The mortgage industry also has a profound impact on people’s lives. Guiding individuals through the complex journey of homeownership, witnessing their dreams materialize, and being a part of that transformative process became my driving force.

Q: What’s your favourite part of being a BDM? 

Paul: No doubt about it—crafting those rock-solid connections with my brokers. I thrive on the daily banter, the rapport we build, and the trust that blossoms. It’s not just about mortgages; it’s about being reliable. I hustle to be the ally they can count on, because in this game, relationships are the real currency, and I’m in it for the long haul.

Q: How do you stay informed about what’s happening in the Canadian housing market?

Paul: I listen to the daily news; there’s always a lot of discussion on market trends and events in the news. I also subscribe to several industry websites. I have underwriting and banking connections I stay in touch with, and we like to discuss what’s happening in the market. Bridgewater Bank also has several excellent internal resources that monitor product and service trends, mortgage rates, government reports and other data sources.

On a personal note

Q: Who do you most admire in life?

Paul: My dad. My dad was always there for me and was such an inspiration to the whole family. He was a very loyal and honest person who looked out for everyone to ensure we were all okay. I aspire to be like him, and I appreciate all the values he instilled in me.

Q: What’s your best childhood memory?

Paul: On my 13th birthday I received a brand-new motorbike. I’d been asking for one for a long time, but I had to be 13 to insure it. It was a road/trail bike.

Q: If I had the opportunity to pass through your region, what would be your top recommendations for things to do?

Paul: I live in Ontario, so I recommend you enjoy the Great Lakes, Niagara Falls and the City of Toronto. It’s a vibrant and eclectic city, and there is so much to do. You’ll need to visit a few times to even scratch the surface. The Beaches is an area that you need to visit; it is right on Lake Ontario.

I’m originally from Newfoundland. It’s a beautiful area with a lot of scenic trails, and cottage life is incredible in the summer. If you go, you’ll want to spend time there and get to know the people–it’s not a place you just pass through. Everyone is inviting and salt-of-the-earth. Don’t forget to get screeched in! It’s a must-do when in Newfoundland.

Final thoughts

Bridgewater Bank has proven to be the wisest career move I’ve ever made. Here, we’re not just employees; we’re a family, and that ethos extends to how we treat our brokers and clients. As we continue to stretch our influence from coast to coast in the mortgage market, I’m eagerly anticipating the chance to connect with even more national brokers. With our strategic presence nationwide, Bridgewater Bank stands as the quintessential alternative lending partner for brokers seeking a reliable ally in the diverse landscape of mortgage opportunities. With all his experience, Paul can answer any alt-lending questions you might have, so give him a shout.