Advance Savings Credit Union
Advance Savings is a community banking institution with four community branches and a business centre in southeastern New Brunswick. We're proud to be a locally owned Credit Union.
Credit Unions are more than your average financial institutions. We’re cooperatives—a small point, but a big difference. Being a cooperative means our customers are also our members—which means what’s good for you is good for us.
At Advance Savings Credit Union, growing your business means a wide range of specialized services to meet changing business needs. As part of your business community, our solutions are customized to your individual requirements. No matter what industry your business operates in, we have the solutions for you. From growing your business with a commercial loan or mortgage, to servicing your day-to-day banking needs, we have specialists ready to guide you.
Advance Savings Credit Union specializes in:
• Real estate financing (multi residential, office, industrial, land, etc...).
• Construction financing.
• Operating lines of credit.
• Business banking.
• Retail banking.
As this month’s Member spotlight, we got to hear from Nick Landry, Senior Commercial Account manager – Advance Savings Credit Union:
How many years have you been in this business?
9 years.
Why did you join BOMA?
It would be easy to say for the excellent networking opportunities; however, to reiterate my previous point, the best way to learn about your members’ needs is to interact, listen, and see what it is they do. The more industry knowledge I am empowered with, the easier it is to succeed in my role as an account manager.
What's one thing - either industry-related or not - you learned in the last month?
This is not something that I am just learning this month, but with each month that passes, I am seeing the significance of this tip. There is a lot of power in local decision making. When you deal with a financial institution that has the ability to make decisions locally, the speed, flexibility, and accuracy in which they can get deals done for you is highly likely to provide your business with a better overall outcome. That kind of agility simply can’t be matched by larger institutions.
What educational or business experiences best prepared you for your career?
Site visits. Despite my degree and various accreditations, nothing beats boots-on-the-ground experience. By visiting work sites, offices, and having in person meetings (as much as possible...) you truly pick up on industry trends and pockets of insight you could never get from reading a textbook.
What advice would you give to professionals coming in to the commercial industry?
Listen and absorb from those around you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions-to-both your peers and your circle of influence. Studying from a book can only get you so far. Build connections and draw from their experience and knowledge.
If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be and why?
Travel more. As a young man, I focused heavily on my career and practiced being fiscally disciplined to the point where I deprived myself of following my sense of adventure. I have learned my lesson and started seeking more balance in this area. I can’t stress enough the value of opening your mind to new people and cultures. It is invaluable in enhancing your perception of the world around you.
What's your favourite movie and why?
Gladiator for 3 reasons: Ancient Rome captured in all its opulent glory; Gladiators battling for the right to rise from poverty to fame and freedom; and a career-defining performance from Russell Crowe. (YES, we are entertained!)
If you could have dinner with someone famous (dead or alive) who would it be and why?
Hands down, I would pick Arsène Wenger – the former football (soccer) coach and manager of Arsenal Football Club. As a huge English Football fan (and specifically a die-hard fan of Arsenal), a chance to speak to the coach who guided our team to the legendary unbeaten title-winning season would be amazing. I would pick his brains on man-management, the pursuit of excellence, and winning strategy. Plus, as a cultured Frenchman, I imagine he will really know his wines!
How do you define success?
I would define success as having found your passion in life, in your career, and in your relationships. Having a passion for what you do will lead to both tangible and intangible benefits, whether monetary, emotional, or legacy building. Passion isn’t simply about loving every moment of your work – it’s about truly caring on a deep enough level to show up every day and put the work in, both when things are going well and when times are challenging. When passion meets perseverance, that’s where true success can happen.