Mathematics and physics were her main interest during her school years; while sports and cultural activities were her hobbies. It is not difficult to imagine that she would find her true passion working and helping people in the financial field.

True to her culture, Cecile was always involved in her community.  She married and devoted her time between her family of three sons and her work as a bookkeeper. She later became a loans and mortgage officer for a credit union.  During these years, her family always came first and early on she discovered the importance of balance in life, family and community.

Cecile returned to school to complete her Business and Administration diploma at the St. Boniface College (now the University of Saint Boniface). It was a simple decision to return to school. She believed it was what was best for her family, her employer and herself. She graduated with honors in 1987.

With this new diploma, she started working for an accounting firm. Cecile missed the direct contact with people and was not able to have as much of a positive involvement in the community. She moved onto a full time position, representing her community at various levels of government.

During this time, Cecile obtained her accreditation as a Certified Management Accountant (CMA). Here, Cecile found the tools and knowledge she needed to become a financial security advisor.  She joined her husband, Renel, at London Life in 1996. Together they set the base of what was to become the Berard Financial Group.

Cecile cared about client needs. She never believed in simply selling the products offered but rather, thought it was important that each client understand why they needed the products she was offering. She spends a lot of time with clients to explain and guide them in their decision.  To further expand her product knowledge, she obtained her Elder Planning Counselor’s designation in 2006.

Client retention and client satisfaction is what drove Cecile to obtain the Excellence Award highlighting her outstanding achievement from 2004 to 2011.

She is not afraid to share her knowledge and experience with her team.  Cecile continues to be involved in the business even though some health issues have forced her to slow down considerably.  She is proud to have mentored Stefane. Now that Christian is joining the business she will continue to share with him all her expertise.