BY J.M. LEE
Ruby began working in the financial industry right after high school. While continuing her education, she moved up from various entry-level positions to Insurance and Investment Specialist, Financial Planner, Assistant Branch Manager, and, for the last 12 years, Branch Manager. Whether working with Vancity, Coast Capital, or G&F Financial Group, she learned quickly that creating and maintaining effective community partnerships was vital to increasing profitability and efficiencies. Building relationships based on trust, engagement, inclusion, and collaboration equaled longevity and a promising career.
“About 5 years ago, I considered slowing down to re-align my priorities and started a new venture as a Residential and Commercial Mortgage Broker. Entrepreneurship has allowed me the flexibility to manage both my family and career.”
Ruby grew up in a household that taught her to be independent, self-reliant, and to respect an honest day’s worth of work.
“To me, leadership is all about shaping the curriculum and resource management of a more complex tomorrow,” she imparts. “It’s about nurturing mindsets, creating possibilities, challenging contemporary ideas, and encouraging unconventional.”
Over the past 25 years, Ruby’s professional leadership style has grown significantly through managing diverse branches, people, and portfolios and constantly navigating change, giving her a solid, helpful distinction.
“As a leader, you must be knowledgeable, articulate, authentic & excel in public speaking. Early in my career I enrolled in a Toastmasters class and learned useful tips. While excellent speaking skills could open up many doors and opportunities, having poor skills could just as easily close them. Most successful public speakers are superb storytellers who can capture an audience. Learning this was impactful, and helped me grow as a leader.”
On mentorship, Ruby reiterates it is a mutually beneficial partnership. “Both parties must own the responsibility for time, effort, and commitment from both the mentor and the mentee. Mentorship is worth its weight in gold, but only if done purposefully. Women are natural-born leaders who excel in collaboration with passion, integrity, and transparency. They have always harnessed the power to excel while profoundly affecting their communities through access and equity. I feel responsible for inspiring tomorrow’s women to grow, thrive and celebrate successes.”
“In my leadership journey, I found men in executive roles encouraging and empowering,” Ruby reveals. “I set high standards for myself and strive to exceed them. I strongly believe the only person stopping you is yourself. By identifying your own gaps you can develop a plan to sharpen your skills and mindset. I believe there is enough sunshine for all of us.”
Successful leadership ensures celebrating diverse perspectives and voices in decision-making and teamwork. Ruby’s skills and strategies effectively lead her team the time and space to reflect, learn and grow.
“I encourage collaboration, compliance with accountability mechanisms to ensure the workplace is free of harassment and is a fun space for all,” she asserts.
Work-life balance is a concept that has become increasingly important in today’s fast-paced and competitive working environment. “I am a married mother of 3 boys and live with an extended family. I am a Director at South Asian Business Association, served on the Centre for Child Development board for 10 years, part of the Women In Business committee with Surrey Board of Trade, and am involved in other community agencies. Spending time with the elders around me is an important way to honor and respect their contributions and I find this incredibly rewarding. I am fortunate to have a spouse and family who value me and my contributions and am grateful for the unwavering support in my endeavours.”
Ruby advises women to attend networking events, join boards, try something new that helps you grow professionally and spiritually. To support causes near and dear to you that can make a positive impact in someone else’s life. For the next generation of women, take risks and embrace failure as an opportunity for growth and learning.
Drishti Magazine has given women an incredibly dignified platform to be recognized, valued, and celebrated. I am honored by this opportunity.”
She derives her inspiration from the women who influenced her life. “I was fortunate to be raised by two mothers, an incredible aunt, and many other strong women around me. They taught me to be fearless and never worry about what others will say. My important message to women—the only person you are accountable to is yourself!”
Ruby’s two eldest boys are at university, studying and playing university soccer. Her youngest boy is in grade 6 and plays soccer and golf like his dad. “I hope that one day, my children will attest that I have instilled the values of equality, inclusivity, and respect in them. I am grateful to be blessed with a family that is a circle of love and strength.”
