LEADERSHIP

Chair

Serving as a director since 2025

Jeff was elected to the credit union board in 2017, where he has been an integral member of the Audit and Conduct Review, Human Resources, and Governance and Nominations committees.
His bachelor’s degree in business administration is complemented by an Institute of Corporate Directors, Director (ICD.D) designation, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

An entrepreneur at heart, Jeff owns Terravista Tech and Wild Frog Systems, two innovative IT service companies in the Lower Mainland. His entrepreneurial venture started when he successfully navigated the growth and sale of TSC Software, the company behind atrieveERP, the premier HR, payroll, and finance solution for school districts in Western Canada. After scaling and selling the company, Jeff joined SRB Education Solutions, where over ten years, he served as general manager, product manager, and IT director. During this period, he was deeply engaged in strategic planning, operations management, and the launch of new products and brands, gaining invaluable experience in mid-size enterprise operations, policy formulation, and board-level reporting.

These diverse experiences have equipped Jeff with a unique blend of skills that he brings to the First West board, contributing significantly to its strategic vision. His competencies in entrepreneurial leadership, business growth, transformation, and technology are assets that enables a broad perspective and a forward-thinking approach to governance and decision-making.

Vice Chair

Serving as a director since 2024

Darryl was elected to First West’s Board in 2018 and currently serves as Chair of the Governance and Nominations Committee. In addition, Darryl serves on the Governance and Nominations Committee, the Risk, Investment and Loan Committee and as a director on the First West Foundation Board.

With a solid educational foundation, Darryl holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Lean Blackbelt certification. His commitment to continuous learning is evident from his recent completion of the Directors Education Program (DEP) at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Business in 2023, which culminated in the prestigious ICD.D designation.

With more than 25 years of experience in technology leadership across diverse sectors such as utilities, aerospace, government, and human services, Darryl is an executive leader at RedMane Technology. There, he leads the Project Enablement function, ensuring excellence in delivery across RedMane’s North American operations.

Darryl’s ability to drive efficiency and enhance member experiences is a cornerstone of his approach, greatly benefiting First West’s strategic discussions. His insights are particularly valuable in navigating the organization’s digital transformation and the integration of Agile methodologies.

A long-time resident of Abbotsford, Darryl has dedicated 35 years to enriching his community. His commitment is exemplified by his role as the board chair for Northview Community Church, where he actively contributes to the community’s growth and wellbeing.

Director

Serving as a director since 2025
Term expires 2027

Born in the UK, Deborah embarked on a transformative journey to Canada, where she carved out an illustrious career in academia. Her path led her through three prestigious universities: McGill, Dalhousie, and UBC. Most notably, she served as Interim President of UBC and previously held the position of Principal at UBC Okanagan from 2012 to 2020.

The skills Deborah brings to the board include enterprise strategy, risk management, equity, diversity and inclusion (“EDI”), environmental and social accountability, governance and roleholder engagement. A leader in roleholder engagement, Deborah brings to First West experience in leading complex organizations through periods of rapid change and growth.

Deborah’s experience leading large, dynamic organizations aligns seamlessly with First West’s trajectory. She envisions an enterprise that not only thrives financially but also contributes positively to society. Her tenure at UBC prompted deep reflection on institutional impact—a perspective she brings to the board.

Deborah chaired the Council of Canadian Academies Expert Panel on Plant Health Risks in Canada (2020-2022), demonstrating her commitment to scientific advancement. Currently she contributes her expertise as the vice-chair of the Canadian Forces Liaison Council, Pacific Region where Deborah bridges the gap between civilian and military communities and she is also an active board member of Genome Canada.

She currently serves as Vice-Chair of the Human Resources Committee and contributes her insights to the Audit and Conduct Review and Government Relations and Partnership committees.
Deborah’s passion lies in shaping enterprises that create a better future—one where purpose and profit coexist harmoniously.

Director

Serving as a director since 2023

As the Chair and CEO of BM Group of Companies (BMG), Balraj leads a diverse conglomerate that includes specialty construction, materials supply, and real estate businesses. His leadership extends to key roles on various First West committees, where he serves on the Risk, Investment and Loan, Human Resources, and as a director of the First West Foundation.

With BMG’s headquarters in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland, Balraj has been instrumental in the company’s growth across Canada, the United States, and South Asia overseeing a workforce of over 500 employees. His prior experience managing large multi-national engineering firms has endowed him with valuable insights into business expansion and market entry strategies, which he brings to First West’s board.

An alumnus of Kwantlen College, Balraj earned his civil engineering technology diploma in 1986 and is affiliated with professional bodies such as the Engineers and Geologists of BC (EGBC) and the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC). His commitment to education and community development is evident through his directorship at the Kwantlen Polytechnic University Foundation and his past contributions to the Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation, Surrey Board of Trade, and the Society of Punjabi Engineers and Technologists of B.C.

A dedicated member of First West since 2004, Balraj’s personal life is deeply rooted in Langley where he enjoys family life with his wife, two daughters and son. His biography reflects a blend of professional acumen and community engagement, underscoring his multifaceted contributions to both his industry and society.

Director

Serving as a director since 2024
Term expires 2027

Karley’s journey began in a small community in northern Saskatchewan, where her initial encounter with finance was through a local credit union. Embracing her heritage as a member of the Metis Nation, she pursued higher education with a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Saskatchewan and a Law degree from the University of Calgary, complemented by her accreditation as a qualified Arbitrator.

Her professional path was initially shaped by a decade-long commitment to the Government of Canada, where she dedicated her efforts to Indigenous Peoples and youth. This experience was a prelude to her legal career, which started in Kelowna in 2012, amidst the joys and challenges of raising two young children with her supportive husband. Karley’s legal expertise spans Corporate Law, Wills and Estates, Family Law, and Aboriginal Law, culminating in her appointment to the Parole Board of Canada in 2019.

In her current role, Karley adeptly balances her responsibilities on the Parole Board with her consultancy work, focusing on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) matters. Her work is particularly centered on Reconciliation, reflecting a deep commitment to addressing its complexities within Canadian society.

Karley’s governance experience is extensive, having served as a Governor at Okanagan College, where she led the Governance Committee. Her expertise aligns seamlessly with First West’s ethos, which values community engagement, a strong ESG framework, and the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives.

In her capacity as a director at First West, Karley contributes to the Audit and Conduct Review and Human Resources Committees, and she furthers her impact through her directorship at the First West Foundation. Her narrative is one of continuous growth, community service, and a dedication to fostering inclusive and sustainable practices within the financial sector.

Director & Chair of Finance & Investment Committee

Serving as a director since 2024

Alex Brocklebank is a long-standing employee of First West Credit Union, currently serving as Branch Manager in the North Island region of Island Savings, a division of First West Credit Union. Over his 13-year career in financial services—including 11 years with Island Savings— Alex has held progressive leadership roles and built high-performing teams recognized with multiple Community Branch of the Year awards.

Alex serves as Chair of the Finance and Investment Committee for the First West Foundation Board, a role he’s held since joining the Board in 2024, where he brings deep financial expertise and a strong commitment to community impact. He has contributed on the boards or investments committees of a number of organizations such as the Salt Spring Chamber of Commerce, Ballenas Housing Society, and the Nanaimo Community Foundation.

He holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder. His leadership is grounded in both strategic insight and a passion for supporting local communities.

Alex’s experience and values align closely with the Foundation’s mission to build resilient and inclusive communities across the regions First West serves.

Director

Serving as a director since 2024

Director

Serving as a director since 2024

With over 22 years of banking experience, Mandeep has transitioned through various roles to his current position as Director, Corporate Credit within First West Credit Union. Mandeep has a strong working knowledge of governance and oversight. Passionate about both people and community, Mandeep embodies the vision of FW Credit Union.

Mandeep has previously sat on several boards in various capacities. He currently resides in Duncan, BC and enjoys outdoor activities and giving back to his community through such organizations as First West Foundation, Chemainus Hospital Foundation, Canucks Autism Network, Cowichan Women Against Violence and others.

Director & Vice Chair of Finance & Investment Committee

Serving as a director since 2024

As Director of Sustainment (ESG) at First West Credit Union, Tracy Fortino leads the development and execution of the organization’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy. Her work spans key areas including ESG reporting, stakeholder engagement, and governance, helping to embed sustainability into the organization’s core operations.

With over 20 years of experience in marketing, community investment, and government relations, Tracy is known for building strong partnerships and driving meaningful impact. She brings bold, forward-thinking ideas to the table and is recognized for fostering collaborative, inclusive environments.
Before joining First West, Tracy worked in economic development and intergovernmental relations at the City of Surrey, where she led initiatives to support business growth and built strong relationships across all levels of government, industry, and academia.

Tracy holds a Master’s in Public Policy from Simon Fraser University, with a focus on immigration, employment, and business policy. She lives in Surrey with her husband and two children, and enjoys biking, soccer, hockey, and giving back through organizations like the Surrey Food Bank and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Executive Director

Susan provides strategic leadership to the First West Foundation. She brings over 20 years of experience serving the social sector as leader of First West Credit Union’s community investment, employee, and outreach programs across BC. A member of Volunteer Canada’s Corporate Community Engagement Council, Susan holds an MBA specializing in Non-Profit and Charitable Organization Management from Trinity Western University.

Email Susan or call 250-487-7337.

Foundation & Community Investment Specialist

In her role as Foundation & Community Investment Specialist, Jackey brings her passion for people to First West Foundation and its community partners. With a strong background in the non-profit sector, Jackey manages the Foundation’s largest community endowments. Focused on creating capacity for charities through effective grant making and relationship development, Jackey also contributes to social and community-based programming to enhance employee and volunteer engagement at First West.

Email Jackey or call 250-487-3623.

Foundation & Community Investment Specialist

As a Foundation and Community Investment Specialist, Sue-Lynda is inspired working alongside charities to help build capacity and resilience in our communities. Managing the marketing and social media activities for the Foundation, she delivers effective and thoughtful communications as the chief storyteller. Sue-Lynda holds a BA in Communications and Publishing from Simon Fraser University. An avid traveler, she currently lives in the Fraser Valley with her husband and two daughters.