For this month’s CTM spotlight, we had an opportunity to ask Jennifer Brucculeri some questions about her time at CTM, her professional development and what she has come to appreciate being a transplant to Haldimand- Norfolk.
When did you join CTM?
I joined CTM (Caradoc Townsend Mutual) in July 2019.
What made you want to work for a local company?
I am a big believer in shopping in my own backyard, at local markets, farms and shops. It seemed natural to work for a local company that I could grow with and that gives back to the local community. It is always nice when clients recognize you when you are outside of work.
What is your favourite aspect of working at CTM?
The company believes in and promotes work/ life balance, always asking for staff feedback on ways to improve. Also that coworkers are always there to help each other out. I am also proud to work for a company that gives back to local charities and communities.
What are some activities or local businesses that you enjoy?
I live in Port Dover, so I love nothing more than grabbing a coffee from a local coffee shop like Urban Parisian and sitting at the pier or walking down to the market or other local businesses, and they know you by name. I also enjoy walking all the different trails Haldimand Norfolk has to offer.
What does working for a mutual company mean to you?
The clients really care about what is happening to the company and voice their opinions; they are not only clients but a part of us. It is nice to hear clients tell me stories of how generations of their families have been with our company.
What is one thing you would want people to know about working at CTM?
They are a very generous company; they not only want the best experience for our clients but also care about the health and wellness of the staff. We all work hard but make time to have fun as well. We are like a family and help each other out. CTM also believes in giving back to our local communities and charities.
So you’ve recently taken on a new role at CTM. What made you want to make the leap to move from reception to the Customer Service Representative role?
I have always been in customer service/sales positions. During COVID, I was one of the few employees who still went into the office daily. I wanted to help the clients in whatever capacity I could, but I was not licensed to do so. An opportunity became available, and I went for it and obtained my OTL License. I am now able to provide a broader range of customer service.
What has surprised you about the Customer Service Representative role so far?
I now see more of the behind the scenes work of how a policy comes together. There are a lot of hardworking individuals who all play a role from beginning to end. There is a lot more involved than I would have realized before making the move.
What does it mean to work for a company that offers opportunities for professional development?
I think it is great that the company promotes growth within, whether through education opportunities or job shadowing. CTM always encourages us to sign up for courses that will allow us to be better in our positions.
Having grown up in Hamilton, what was that transition like when you moved to Haldimand- Norfolk?
It was hard at first, going from a fast-paced city to a more relaxed small town. I have now lived longer in Haldimand Norfolk than in Hamilton. I really love the small town feel and the friendliness of the local communities. We have an abundance of things in our own backyard, such as farm fresh food markets, local artists, microbreweries and wineries etc.
Okay, moving on to some more fun questions now. What is your current favourite TV show?
I don’t tend to watch a lot of TV, but one I did watch was “How To Get Away With Murder” on Netflix. I also love to cook, so I watch a variety of food and travel shows.
If you had to eat only one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I am a big foodie, so that is a tough one, but if I had to pick … it would have to be pasta!
You have an Ontario Wine Certification. The last and perhaps most important question … when you finish work this Friday, what wine are you reaching for?
Definitely it would be Featherstone Rose or Wayne Gretzky Sauvignon Blanc.
