John Lucas

Vice President, Commercial Financing at First National Financial

Speaker

John joined the First National team in February 2022 with a mandate of growing First National’s presence, brand and credibility in the west. In his mission to lead by example, John plans to leverage his reputation, network and deep expertise in local markets.

John’s career’s long journey in commercial real estate has included roles in both development and lending. Having spent time as both a borrower and a lender, he has a rare perspective that affords him a 360-degree view of transactions.

When John joined Coast Capital to lead the commercial real estate group in 2012, he spearheaded a business model reset from term lending to construction lending and started the company’s CMHC & Builder Finance division. As part of that transition, he reenergized and refocused the team to a direct relationship mindset. John mentors and guides from a place of curiosity and possibility thinking. Once oriented to the possibilities, he then emphasizes a pragmatic approach to discovery, focusing on the reality of the borrower, market and location. While technical proficiency and credibility are vital, John believes that a client-first mentality is the key to building meaningful, lasting connections.

Working at First National, John is excited to get back to his roots and re-immerse himself in the financial structuring and dynamics that come with figuring out deals. With a mandate to grow the team, John is looking forward to mentoring for success and promoting each person’s individual credibility. He aligns with First National’s philosophy of relationship first and is optimistic about the possibilities he can create for his existing and expanding network.