Your team of champions

Nobody understands what it takes to help you own the moment more than our Managers of Business Development. They talk to brokers every day, deal with challenges, find solutions and facilitate opportunities. While each Manager of Business Development delivers value in a unique way, being your champion is a shared commitment across our entire team. Whether you are pursuing growth, delivering service or supporting clients, you always have someone in your corner, dedicated to helping you own the moment.

Find a Manager of Business Development

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Alberta & Prairies Managers of Business Development

Elena Robinson
Alberta & Prairies
elena.robinson@firstnational.ca
416.320.3138

Ontario & Atlantic Canada Managers of Business Development

Communicator. Motivated. Personable.

“I add value by nurturing strong relationships with clients and partners, delivering service defined by knowledge sharing and integrity.”

Elena was part of the First National team during its early years in the industry. She rejoined in 2018, bringing numerous years of industry expertise to her role as National Director of Sales. Throughout her time in the industry, Elena has developed skills including sales, business development, management and training. As a strong communicator, she prides herself on being reliable, committed and dependable in her response to broker partners. Highly motivated to succeed, Elena is always inspired to find new and creative ways to achieve objectives. She considers herself a people person and tries to maintain a cheerful disposition and outgoing manner that puts people at ease.

When she’s not adding value for brokers, Elena enjoys exploring the globe, dancing and her volunteer commitments to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peel.

Lisa Bartlett
Alberta & Prairies
lisa.bartlett@firstnational.ca
403.852.7336

Alberta & Prairies Managers of Business Development

Service oriented. Knowledgeable. Loyal.

“I add value by getting to know every account and using that knowledge to help with day to day business.”

Lisa has been a part of the industry since 1996, joining the First National team in 2011. A sales-driven leader, Lisa helps people reach their targets and achieve status with compensation and rewards. She also brings strong underwriting experience to her role, allowing her to help with every step of a deal.

When she’s not adding value to the team, Lisa enjoys a good book, time with her family and walking her dog.

Sarena Scott
Alberta & Prairies
sarena.scott@firstnational.ca
587.580.8865

Alberta & Prairies Managers of Business Development

Resourceful. Helpful. Considerate.

“I add value by structuring deals effectively and sharing my knowledge of First National guidelines and insurer programs.”

Sarena originally joined the First National team as an Underwriter in 2011 and stayed in that role until 2015. She returned in 2020 in her current role as Account Manager. With a solution mindset, Sarena is always willing to find a way to overcome challenges in a file or seek out answers to questions. She listens intently, so clients feel heard, valued and understood.

When she’s not adding value for brokers, Sarena tries out new recipes in the kitchen, finds her zen with yoga and enjoys the outdoors by camping.

Robyn Molenaar
Alberta & Prairies
robyn.molenaar@firstnational.ca
403.512.9032

Alberta & Prairies Managers of Business Development

Listener. Communicator. Hard worker.

“I add value by applying my experience in funding and residential underwriting to my role as Account Manager.”

Robyn has been a part of the First National team since 2013. She began in funding and moved to residential underwriting before taking on her role as Internal Account Manager. For Robyn, listening – to concerns, compliments and general feedback – helps her be more empathetic in her dealings with clients. She also believes that pride in one’s work and professional, clear and concise communication are critical to building relationships that last.

When she’s not adding value for brokers, Robyn enjoys immersing herself in a good read, hiking and spending time in her garden.

Russell Veronelly
Alberta & Prairies
russell.veronelly@firstnational.ca
403.880.3481

Alberta & Prairies Managers of Business Development

Attentive. Resourceful. Organized.

“I add value by combining my previous experience as an Associate Underwriter with my attention to detail and commitment to service excellence.”

Russell joined First National in 2021, starting as a Funder and then moving into the role of Associate Underwriter. Those two roles gave him deep insight into the mortgage process and provided a unique opportunity to hone his communication and relationship skills. An active listener, Russell seeks to understand client needs so he can incorporate that insight into developing win-win solutions. When problems arise, he digs in, analyzes the issues and finds the most effective resolution. Given the sometimes hectic nature of the mortgage process, Russell taps his natural affinity for planning and prioritization so he can be as efficient as possible.

When he’s not adding value for First National borrowers, Russell treasures time with family and friends and stays active playing beach volleyball, squash and basketball.

Shanna-Lee Sebastian
Alberta & Prairies
Shanna-Lee.Sebastian@firstnational.ca
306-209-3292

Alberta & Prairies Managers of Business Development

Motivated. Adaptable. Diligent.

“I add value by combining almost three decades of industry experience with a strong work ethic, commitment to growth and professional integrity.”

Shanna-Lee joined the First National team in June 2024. She has worked in the industry since 1996, with the past 15 years dedicated to mortgage lending. Thriving for almost three decades in this industry is proof of Shanna-Lee’s versatility, unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth, strong work ethic and effective communication. She prides herself on the longevity of the relationships she’s built and remaining steadfast to her professional integrity and standards.

When she’s not adding value for brokers, Shanna-Lee pursues a variety of interests including travel, fitness training, football and wine tastings. Dedicated to ongoing growth, she has recently obtained certifications as a personal trainer and end of life doula.

Colleen Granberg
Alberta & Prairies
colleen.granberg@firstnational.ca
403.650.2037

Alberta & Prairies Managers of Business Development

Kim Lewis
Alberta & Prairies
kim.lewis@firstnational.ca
780.974.8562

Alberta & Prairies Managers of Business Development

“I add value by building strong, trust-based relationships and offering open, honest communication—because your business is my business.”

With 20 years of experience in the financial industry, Kim Lewis brings a well-rounded perspective to her role as Manager, Business Development in Edmonton. Her background includes 14 years as a Mortgage Advisor with Scotiabank and time as a Territory Account Manager for Edmonton and Northern Alberta with Sagen. These roles have shaped her ability to assess risk, understand broker needs, and offer strategic guidance that drives results.

Kim’s approach is defined by three strengths: deep underwriting knowledge, strong communication, and a commitment to responsiveness. She’s known for being available when it counts, delivering thoughtful insight and fast answers that help brokers keep deals moving forward.

Outside of work, Kim loves to travel with her family and proudly embraces her role as a soccer mom to twins—whether that means road trips to tournaments or cheering from the sidelines.