Meet our team

Melanie Lyons

Financial Advisor*

Mutual Fund Investment Specialist**

As a Financial Advisor, Melanie brings an entirety of expertise to her role, placing particular emphasis on solutions related to life and wealth. Holding a PFA Designation and licences in life insurance, mutual funds and general insurance, she has honed her skills to provide comprehensive financial guidance in any field a client may desire. Melanie's journey in insurance began in 1997 and in October of 2009 she joined Co-operators, assuming the role of advisor for the Saint John East office in June of 2010. Most recently, she acquired the West Side Co-operators franchise in January of 2022 and amalgamated with the East Side franchise, an accomplishment achieved due to commitment and work ethic. Throughout her career, Melanie’s dedication and competence have been identified through notable accolades. This commitment extends to subsequent years, with achievements in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022, and she and her team continually strive to maintain this exceptional standard. Described as determined, outgoing and a fair leader, Melanie embodies these qualities in her professional interactions. What sets Co-operators apart, in her perspective, is the commitment to personalized service and ongoing support. Melanie believes in not only offering tailored advice and solutions but also providing continuous updates on changes and new offerings. Married with three children, Melanie recognizes the value of safeguarding what's important and is dedicated to ensuring security for others. She finds purpose in aiding clients in creating portfolios that align with their protection and financial goals. Melanie's unwavering commitment as a Financial Advisor reflects her genuine dedication to helping clients achieve their financial aspirations and secure their future.

Location

Saint John

Email

Alaine Karry-Sartzetakis

Client Contact Representative

In her role as a Client Contact Representative, Alaine excels in the field of customer service and billing. With two years of valuable experience at Co-operators, Alaine has established herself as a reliable and dedicated professional. Alaine's vibrant personality is characterized by her love for laughter. She's known for being outgoing, resilient, ambitious and compassionate – qualities that beautifully align with her role in fostering positive client interactions. What sets Co-operators apart, in Alaine's perspective, is their unwavering commitment to personal customer service. Alaine highlights the value of building strong relationships with clients through one-on-one interactions. This personalized touch, often lost in larger firms, is a distinctive hallmark of Co-operators approach. Having Alaine as your Client Contact Representative ensures that you are entrusting your inquiries to a dedicated and personable professional who values direct connections and goes the extra mile to enhance your experience.

Location

Saint John

Email

Alisha Bhatia

Associate Insurance Advisor

Alisha embarked on her professional journey with Co-operators in January 2023, marking her first step into the Canadian job market. Her initiation into the field was accompanied by the excitement of taking on the challenge. Alisha's journey with Co-operators has been a blend of enthusiasm, growth and valuable experiences in her role as an Associate Insurance Advisor. Characterized by qualities of hard work, flexibility, responsibility and optimism, Alisha has established herself as a dedicated professional. Her specialty lies in auto insurance, a field where she brings her expertise and commitment to the forefront. Alisha's journey signifies more than just a professional endeavour – it is a story of adaptation, perseverance and a genuine passion for the world of insurance. With her at the helm, you can trust that your auto insurance needs are in capable hands. Married and driven by a profound appreciation for personal growth, Alisha enjoys cherishing moments with loved ones, be it friends, family or moments of solitude. Her commitment to self-improvement remains a cornerstone, reflecting her dedication both in and outside the office.

Location

Saint John

Email

Brenda McCluskey

Associate Financial Advisor

Brenda serves as an Associate Insurance Advisor, specializing in life, business and home insurance. With a remarkable 28-year journey alongside Co-operators, her experience in the insurance domain is truly unparalleled. Brenda's expertise is underscored by her possession of licences in both general and life insurance, showcasing her commitment to delivering tailored and comprehensive insurance solutions. Described as conscientious, thoughtful, loyal and reliable, Brenda embodies these qualities in both her personal and professional communications. What sets Co-operators apart, as Brenda underscores, is the invaluable presence of a local insurance professional. This advantage ensures that clients receive personalized guidance to navigate their insurance needs and benefit from professional advice and service meticulously tailored to their unique consumer profile. Outside the professional realm, Brenda's interests extend to chasing waterfalls, boating, day trips and engaging in monthly dinners with friends. However, her most cherished moments are spent in the company of her family, including her loving husband, daughter and two grandchildren. Selecting Brenda as your Associate Insurance Advisor means partnering with an experienced professional who seamlessly combines expertise with approachability. She is dedicated to ensuring your insurance needs are expertly met while providing you with the utmost care and attention you deserve.

Location

Saint John

Email

Calista Lyons

Associate Financial Advisor*

Mutual Fund Investment Specialist**

Calista assumes the role of an Associate Insurance Advisor, specializing in life insurance. With an academic background encompassing a BA degree and holding licences in both life insurance and general insurance, she is on the path of actively pursuing further credentials. In the upcoming year, she aspires to attain her mutual licence and work towards her PFA designation, establishing herself as an Associate Financial Advisor. Calista's journey with Co-operators began as a Client Contact Representative in 2018, a role she temporarily left to complete her degree. She has since returned, bringing with her the knowledge acquired during her academic pursuits. With a year of formal experience in the insurance field, Calista's determination and commitment distinguish her. Described as honest, thoughtful, energetic and creative, Calista's personality is mirrored in her work approach. Calista distinguishes Co-operators from other providers by their emphasis on one-on-one attention and building a foundation of trust with clients. She strives not only to contribute to your current portfolio but also to nurture it for a prosperous future, combining expertise with integrity and a vision for your long-term financial security.

Location

Saint John

Email

Fadhlat Shodipe-Olaide

Associate Insurance Advisor

Fadhlat holds a dynamic role that encompasses both Associate Insurance Advisor and Client Contact Representative, showcasing a versatile skill set. With expertise in auto, home and travel insurance, Fadhlat emerges as a trusted professional to safeguard your foremost concerns. Despite a relatively short tenure of a year and a half at Co-operators, Fadhlat's adaptability has already made a significant impact. In this dual role, Fadhlat effectively bridges the gap between comprehensive insurance knowledge and the personalized touch clients deserve. While designations and licences may evolve, Fadhlat's commitment to excellence remains constant. Described as adaptable, helpful, passionate and hard-working, Fadhlat seamlessly blends expertise with approachability in client interactions. What truly sets Co-operators apart, according to Fadhlat, is the genuine sincerity embedded in the products offered. Beyond transactions, Fadhlat embodies this authenticity in every interaction, assuring clients that their concerns are heard, their worth acknowledged and their needs genuinely addressed.

Location

Saint John

Email

Michelle Kelly

Commercial Specialist

With a career spanning almost two decades of dedicated service in the insurance realm, Michelle stands as a seasoned professional in her role as a Commercial Specialist. Her expertise branches out to encompass home, auto and travel insurance, but her focal point remains within the sphere of business insurance. Michelle's journey within the insurance domain is defined by her unwavering commitment and distinctive approach. Throughout her remarkable 18-year career, Michelle has garnered a reputation for her profound knowledge and straightforward manner operating on a clear principle: comprehending the client's needs, presenting customized solutions and executing with precision. Michelle adeptly connects with clients through her candid and outgoing approach, building relationships based on authenticity and transparency. Her belief in the Co-operators' direct method underscores her commitment – streamlining processes, leading to faster policies and services. This efficiency mirrors Michelle's enthusiasm to swift execution, a testament to both her and Co-operators pride in their craft. Outside of her professional engagements, Michelle is an avid participant in an array of outdoor activities. These pursuits include camping, vacations, kayaking, side-by-siding, fishing, etc., alongside her greatest joy derived from spending this quality time with her spouse, two children and two dogs.

Location

Saint John

Email