Thank You To Our Speakers!

Jennie Hodgson, Senior Manager, Mortgage Brokering Conduct, Market Conduct
Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA)

Jennie Hodgson is Senior Manager of Mortgage Brokering Conduct within FSRA’s Market Conduct division. After starting her mortgage industry career in 2001 in the mortgage servicing division of a big-5 bank, she then gained experience with roles at a private commercial lender, as an education consultant, and leading the education department at a national association.

Jennie began her role at FSRA in 2019, managing a team of compliance examiners and supporting the development of regulatory guidance.

With a BA in Adult Education from Brock University, Jennie is passionate about education and draws on these skills for her work coaching brokerages and administrators on how to achieve regulatory compliance, and promoting the fair treatment of consumers.

Tim leads national sales relationships for Manulife Bank, partnering with Firm management and top franchises alike. He celebrates 25 years with Manulife this June—after a decade on the insurance side, he transitioned to Manulife Bank, where he’s focused on growth, strategic partnerships, and broker success. Tim is excited to represent Manulife today in a fireside chat with Rob Townsley.

John Webster, President and Chief Executive Officer
Wealth One Bank of Canada

John Websster has served in senior leadership roles at Bank of Nova Scotia and Maple Trust Company. His leadership in the Canadian regulated financial services industry spans over 37 years, including roles as President and CEO of Scotia Mortgage Corp and from 1989 at Maple Trust (previously London Trust), where he successfully navigated its acquisition by Scotiabank and integration with their mortgage operations in 2006.

Mr. Webster’s industry and governance expertise includes directorships at Manulife Bank of Canada, Manulife Trust Company, Scotia Mortgage Corp, and Maple TrustCo, as well as Cargojet Inc. and Dundee Financial Corp. As a founding member of the Canadian Association of Accredited Mortgage Professionals (CAAMP) and member of the Law Society of Ontario, Mr. Webster has made significant contributions to shaping Canadian financial services standards.

Mr. Webster holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) from Wilfrid Laurier University, and both Bachelor of Civil Law (B.C.L.) and Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degrees from McGill University.

Grant Armstrong, Chief Growth Officer
Wealth One Bank of Canada

Grant Armstrong is Vice President and Chief Credit Officer at Wealth One Bank of Canada, where he leads the bank’s origination strategy and oversees residential & commercial mortgage origination. In this role, Grant plays a key part in advancing Wealth One’s growth as a national alternative lender by aligning credit leadership with commercial objectives and market opportunities.

Grant brings more than 20 years of experience in the Canadian mortgage and financial services industry. Prior to joining Wealth One, he held senior leadership roles at Community Trust, most recently as Head of Distribution, and earlier in his career at major financial institutions including RBC and CIBC. His background spans credit, distribution, and mortgage origination, giving him a unique perspective on building scalable lending platforms.

Well known for his strong business development capabilities, Grant has a proven track record of expanding mortgage programs, strengthening broker relationships, and partnering cross-functionally to drive sustainable growth. He is recognized for translating market insights into practical lending solutions that support both brokers and borrowers.

Earlier in his career, Grant served in the Canadian Armed Forces, working with Royal Canadian Army Cadets. Grant retired at the rank of Captain, after nearly 20years of service. This was an experience that shaped his leadership style and instilled a strong foundation of discipline, accountability, and teamwork.

Grant is a collaborative leader who values transparency, accountability, and long-term partnerships, and he is committed to supporting Wealth One Bank’s mission of delivering flexible, thoughtful lending solutions to Canadians.

Barbara is the Senior Business Development Manager at BMO BrokerEdge and brings extensive experience across sales and franchise leadership in the mortgage industry. Having worked closely with senior executives, brokers, lenders, and industry partners, she offers a well‑rounded and practical perspective shaped by years of hands‑on leadership.

Eric Poblete, National Director – Solutions: Mortgage & Housing

Equifax Canada

Eric Poblete is a sales professional with over 35+ years experience working with all vertical markets. In the last 15 years Eric has worked with Equifax Canada, focusing on the mortgage, rental and housing industries. As the Equifax ambassador for the mortgage broker market, he has provided extensive support and education to all the varied stakeholders including brokers, lenders, underwriters, real estate agents, and insurers. He has helped them understand credit, compliance, financial trends, compliance and fraud directly and indirectly related to the mortgage market.

Rose Butera, Director of Business Development
Extend Financial

Rose Butera brings over 22 years of mortgage industry experience and a reputation for trust, relationships, and results. At Extend Financial, she’s known for rolling up her sleeves and helping brokers solve complex deals with smart, effective solutions. When others say no, Rose finds a way forward—making her a go-to lender partner for brokers who want to get deals done.