OCTOBER 24, 2026 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN Big Plans Need Local Support F or business owners, choosing a financial partner involves more than products and rates. It’s about finding an organization Business
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owners today need both personalized service and modern convenience. We believe they shouldn’t have to choose between the two.”
that understands your business, your industry,
and the community where you operate.
Fusion Credit Union believes that local businesses deserve local expertise, acces- sible service, and financial solutions built around long-term relationships. While larg- er financial institutions may offer national scale, Fusion offers something different: a deep understanding of the people, business- es, and communities they serve. One of the most significant advantages of Fusion is local decision-making. “Our Ag/Commercial Relationship Man- agers live and work in the communities they serve,” says Brett Norrie, Director of Lending Solutions. “They understand the realities fac- ing local businesses because they experience them firsthand. They know the industries driving our economy, understand seasonal challenges, recognize growth opportunities, and see the impact businesses have on our communities every day.” That insight helps Fusion provide relevant advice and practical financial solutions that reflect local realities. Ag/Commercial Relationship Managers at Fusion are more than financial profession- als. They are neighbours, volunteers, coach- es, board members, customers, and fellow community members. “You will see us at local hockey rinks, com- munity events, agricultural fairs, fundraisers, and business functions,” Norrie says. “We have a genuine connection to the communi- ties we serve because we live here too.” Norrie further adds that familiarity helps build trust. “Many of our members know our staff personally, and our staff know their members beyond just the numbers on a fi- nancial statement. We understand that be- hind every business account is a person, a family, a team of employees, and a vision for the future.” This people-first approach at Fusion helps shape how services are delivered. Whether financing equipment, expanding operations, managing cash flow, or pursuing a new op- portunity, timely communication matters.
— PAM GALATIUK, MANAGER, LENDING SOLUTIONS
“That’s why our members have direct access to the people supporting their busi- ness,” Norrie says. “Our team members provide direct phone numbers and email addresses, making it easy to reach some- one who already understands your opera- tion and can respond quickly when mem- bers need assistance.” Fusion takes the time to get to know members personally. “In our branches, you’ll often be asked for your name rath- er than an account number,” explains Pam Galatiuk, Manager, Lending Solutions. “That may seem like a small detail, but it reflects a larger philosophy. We see our members as people first. We value the re- lationships we’ve built, and we believe personalized service still matters in today’s increasingly digital world.” At the same time, being local doesn’t mean being limited. While Fusion proudly serves members through 18 branch loca- tions, their reach extends far beyond their physical footprint. “Our Ag/Commercial Relationship Managers regularly travel to farms, businesses, and rural communities to meet members where they are,” adds Galatiuk. “We also serve businesses and
Laura Brownlee, Ag Commercial Relationship Manager, discusses business products and services at Fusion Credit Union. (Supplied)
individuals across the region, extending our reach beyond the communities where our branches are located.” Through a combination of on-site visits, digital banking tools, virtual meetings, and responsive local support, Fusion makes it easy for members to access the exper- tise they need regardless of their location. “Business owners today need both person- alized service and modern convenience,” says Galatiuk. “We believe they shouldn’t have to choose between the two.” When financial decisions are made by Fusion members, they are backed by lo-
cal knowledge and local relationships, not solely by centralized processes. That means conversations focus on understanding each business’s unique needs and finding solutions that support long-term success. “Because, at the end of the day, banking extends far beyond individual transac- tions,” emphasizes Norrie. “It’s about hav- ing a trusted financial partner who knows your business, understands your commu- nity, and is invested in your success. That’s the difference local makes.” ■
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