Scrivens has a diverse team of professionals: from industry influencers to musicians, from analysts to poets. The Employee Spotlight series aims to highlight the talented individuals who work here. Each month, we’ll be featuring an interview here on the blog and on our social accounts.

Meet Jane Dunlop, Investment Agent

Jane grew up on a beautiful 100-acre farm with her five brothers and one sister just South of Ottawa. She’s now a proud mom of her teenage daughter and even in spite of the pandemic, Jane and her daughter still enjoy spending time together. Jane is looking forward to when it is safe again to cheer at Ottawa 67’s games, sing along at outdoor music concerts, or compete with her brother at trivia night at the local pub.

Jane’s first day at Scrivens dates back almost 15 years to November 2006. Her infectious laugh is certainly missed around the office these days but she continues to share her positive energy with all of her clients from the comfort of her home.

Let’s learn a little more about Jane.

What is your favourite thing about your role?

Dealing with my clients. Getting to know each client’s investment goals and helping them achieve them is very rewarding. When I get appreciation from a client for helping them with a particular issue brightens my day and makes me love what I do.

What do you like most about working at Scrivens?

I started at Scrivens when my daughter was 2 years old and I am so grateful for the flexibility Scrivens provides for family events, even during the workday. Scrivens is a great employer and their commitment to accommodating my family needs is important to me.

We have many departments but everyone is eager to help each other out. It really is a great team atmosphere. Some coworkers that were here when I joined 15 years ago are still here today which shows how great of a place Scrivens is to work.

Previously, I’ve worked in large financial institutions and although there are many positives working at them, I didn’t have the same sense of teamwork that I get from my coworkers at Scrivens.

Each day is interesting and I come across new situations all the time, keeping me engaged and on my toes.

What has been your favourite project at Scrivens?

Scrivens acquired a company in 2018 and although it was a challenge to transfer the information into our system, the Scrivens Financial team worked really well together and made the process extremely efficient.

I really enjoyed this project because it was a great opportunity to learn more about the new clients.

What is one career lesson you have learned so far?

Although I haven’t mastered it just yet, organization and time management is a skill that I have been improving for my entire professional career.

Do you have any nicknames?

Growing up, I used to go running into the house to tell my mom that my 5 brothers wouldn’t let me play with them so my brothers started calling me Paino. I guess I was a bit of a “pain”.

What is your favourite travel destination?

I have visited Barbados and Cuba and I loved both of them, but at the top of my bucket list is to visit Ireland as soon as possible, especially after the past year. I’d also love to visit Nashville!

Favourite quote

When my daughter was growing up and having a difficult day, I made up this quote to help lift her spirits. Each time I would cross my fingers and hope the next day would be better.

“The best thing about a bad day is that a good day is just around the corner.”

Now I use this quote for myself, especially this year as we've all faced many challenges.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I can recite the alphabet backwards.

Do you have any pets?

I started taking care of my dad’s dog, Snoopy, when he could no longer care for him. Sadly both Snoopy and my dad are no longer with us and I deeply miss both of them.

Jessie is our other pet and we have really appreciated the comfort and companionship, especially during the pandemic. Here’s a photo of both Snoopy and Jessie.