CONFERENCE SPEAKERS

We have assembled a lineup of renowned keynote speakers who will be sharing their insights and innovative ideas on building strong relationships and making connections in the current industry climate. These esteemed speakers include Kate O’Neil, founder and CEO of KO Insights, a strategic advisory firm that enhances human experiences at scale through data-driven and AI-led interactions. Stay tuned for updates to our line up of speakers. We will update this page with panelists and moderators soon!

Kate O’Neil

Tech Humanist, Global Shaper, and Visionary Leader

Dr. Greg Wells

Wellness and Elite Performance Expert

Brendon Ogmundson

Chief Economist for the BC Real Estate Association

Preet Banerjee

Behavioural Finance Expert

Dong Lee

CEO at Axiom Innovations

Michael Thorne

PRESENTATION

Harnessing AI for Mortgage Brokers: Actionable Tactics for Greater Efficiency, Stronger Client Relationships, and Industry Leadership

Join Michael Thorne, REALTOR® and recognized AI thought leader, for an engaging session specifically tailored to mortgage brokers looking to leverage AI practically and effectively. Discover how to reclaim valuable hours by automating repetitive tasks, effortlessly generate rapid, personalized, compliance-friendly content for enhanced client interactions, and utilize powerful, data-driven insights to stay ahead in a competitive marketplace.
Imagine transforming tedious paperwork and complex processes into streamlined workflows, positioning yourself not only as an efficient professional but as a trusted advisor who can spend more meaningful time guiding clients through critical financial decisions. Learn actionable steps to harness AI that complement your expertise, amplify your professional brand, and elevate your market position.
Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock AI’s potential, strengthen your client relationships, enhance your professional credibility, and confidently lead the mortgage industry forward.

Presented by       

James Kirkwood

WORKSHOP

Business Strategist & Sales Leader

James Kirkwood is a highly accomplished business consultant with over 30 years of experience in sales leadership, marketing, and team development. As the founder of Kirkwood Consulting Group, he specializes in brand positioning, business growth strategies, emotional intelligence, and leadership training, helping professionals differentiate themselves in competitive markets, attract ideal clients, and build high-performance teams.

With a proven track record in Canada and Australia, James has worked with executive leadership teams and business owners across multiple industries to develop sustainable strategies that drive long-term success. His expertise lies in creating strong brand value, fostering workplace culture, and implementing sales techniques that deliver results.

At the CMBA Workshop: Build Your Brand Value – Secure Your Future, James will share practical insights, exercises, and strategies to help mortgage professionals stand out, grow their businesses, and secure long-term success.

Workshop Presented by       

PANEL SESSIONS

Panelists

Broker Book Club

Lee-Ann McEllister
Lee-Ann McEllister
MCAP
MCAP

Lee-Ann McEllister

Herjit Driver
Herjit Driver
Driver Financial
Driver Financial

Herjit Driver

Kyle Williams
Kyle Williams
First Circle
First Circle

Kyle Williams

Jennifer Watts
Jennifer Watts
Community Trust
Community Trust

Jennifer Watts

Rebecca Casey
Rebecca Casey
MODERATOR

Moderator

DLC Origin Mortgages

Rebecca Casey

Broker Book Club

Tuesday, April 8th 11:05 am – 12:00 pm

Each panelist is bringing the book that changed their life and will share how it shaped their business and professional development. This session is for anyone looking to drive change and growth in their career. Successful people never stop learning—if you want to take your personal and professional journey to the next level, this discussion will inspire you to keep evolving!

Presented by       

Fireside Chat

Closing More Deals

Trish Pigott
Trish Pigott
Primex Mortgages
Primex Mortgages

Trish Pigott

Ryan W. Smith
Ryan W. Smith
Compass Mortgage Group
Compass Mortgage Group

Ryan W. Smith

Grant Armstrong
Grant Armstrong
MODERATOR

Moderator

Community Trust

Grant Armstrong

Fireside Chat: Closing More Deals

Monday, April 7th 1:00 pm – 1:45 pm

In today’s challenging market, top brokers are finding ways to grow, adapt, and succeed. Join this fireside chat to hear from industry leaders who are increasing their market share and adding value to their clients and database. Learn actionable strategies and key takeaways you can implement in your own business to stay ahead and close more deals. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights that will help you thrive!

Presented by       

Inside the Lender’s Mind

A Lender Panel

Kristina Morrison
Kristina Morrison
First National LP
First National LP

Kristina Morrison

Imran Khokhar
Imran Khokhar
Scotiabank
Scotiabank

Imran Khokhar

Mark Gawehens
Mark Gawehens
First West Credit Union
First West Credit Union

Mark Gawehns

Dwayne Schmidt
Dwayne Schmidt
TD Bank
TD Bank

Dwayne Schmidt

Dustan Woodhouse
Dustan Woodhouse
MODERATOR

Moderator

Be The Better Broker

Dustan Woodhouse

Inside the Lender’s Mind: A Lender Panel

Tuesday, April 8th 2:50 pm – 3:45 pm

Dive into the heart of economic insights and policies with our exclusive A – Lender Panel. Join high-level lender executives, including VPs whenever possible, as they unravel the complexities of the political landscape and share invaluable perspectives on market trends. Gain a deep understanding of the “behind-the-scenes” workings that influence the lending industry. This event is a must-attend for brokers seeking a comprehensive grasp of economic factors and policies shaping the market. Stay ahead of the curve, enhance your strategic decision-making, and elevate your business acumen. Seize the opportunity to learn from industry leaders and position yourself for success in the ever-evolving financial landscape.

Presented by       

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS

PLATINUM TIER

PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

GOLD TIER

REGISTRATION PARTNER

BROKER’S LOUNGE SPONSOR

KEYNOTE SPONSORS

SILVER TIER

LANYARD SPONSOR

LINKEDIN HEADSHOT SPONSOR

RECEPTION BAR SPONSOR

NOTEPAD AND PEN SPONSOR

POWER UP SPONSOR

BRONZE TIER