THREEFOLD - Key Persons
Having spent a decade as a Chartered Accountant in New Zealand, I have returned to the world of mortgage advising, blending my financial expertise with a renewed dedication to assisting clients in realising their home ownership dreams. My prior experience as a top mortgage adviser in the UK, combined with my accounting skills, ensures a thorough and insightful approach to financial matters.
My focus is on clear and straightforward communication. I believe in breaking down complex financial concepts into understandable terms, creating a comfortable environment that fosters open discussion and informed decision-making. Tailoring my service to each client's individual needs and goals is paramount. It's not just about securing a mortgage; it's about charting a path towards your personal and financial success.
What truly motivates me in my role is the opportunity to positively impact my clients' lives. Guiding each person through their unique financial journey, and seeing the real-world results, is what makes this work so rewarding. My commitment is to provide not just exceptional service, but also a supportive and understanding experience every step of the way.
Away from the office, I maintain this sense of balance and commitment through my passion for open ocean paddling and road cycling. These activities not only offer a refreshing break but also keep me energized and focused, qualities that I bring back to my professional life.
With 20 years' experience in financial services, Carl has a solid understanding of everything insurance- and KiwiSaver-related and is passionate about educating his clients about the benefits of both.
Throughout his career, Carl has worked in a range of roles for Southern Cross HealthCare, Sovereign Life Insurance, and most recently Generate KiwiSaver. Thanks to his breadth of experience, Carl understands the importance of KiwiSaver fund choice, what insurance policies work for every age and stage of life, and how decisions his clients make now can impact the quality of their retirements.
After hours, Carl is kept busy by his wife and two children, and enjoys running, paddle boarding, watching basketball, and listening to his vast vinyl collection.
Craig, with his solid foundation as a chartered accountant and over 17 years of experience in senior finance roles across diverse sectors including investment banking and consulting, brings a unique understanding of the subtleties of business-backed lending and property investment. This rich background anchors his current role as a dedicated Mortgage Adviser, where he skillfully applies this knowledge to create tailored mortgage solutions that better serve his clients. His expertise is particularly valuable in designing effective cash flow structures, implementing tax-efficient strategies in collaboration with clients' accountants, and navigating complex bank lending decisions.
Craig's dedication to delivering exceptional advice and service is consistently demonstrated, whether he's supporting a first-time homebuyer or managing the intricacies of a multi-property investment portfolio. Fueled by a deep commitment to financial education, he is focused on empowering clients to achieve their property ownership goals.
Outside of his professional commitments, Craig enjoys quality time with his family, stays active with CrossFit, and relaxes by playing tennis with friends. His approachable nature and extensive experience make him an ideal partner for clients and a trusted resource for business associates in the field of property investment.
Whether you are a first home buyer, property investor, building your dream home, or just looking to find the best loan, David can support you through the process to make it seem simple.
Having worked in banking and lending for 20 years, you can rely on David and his experience to walk you through the initial idea through to the final stage, whatever your dream may be.
David says that what has kept him energised in this industry for so many years is getting to know his clients, working together with them to find out what their goals really are, and the buzz of seeing them through to reality.
Keeping fresh through regular swimming, gym sessions and basketball, when they find some spare time, David and his wife are avid travellers. Aside from trips to see family in Italy, their favourite holiday was a drive from Auckland to Stewart Island and back.
Job Titles:
- Financial Adviser
- Member of the Life Insurance Team
- Member of Threefold 's Life Insurance
Howard is a member of Threefold's Life Insurance and KiwiSaver teams. He brings a decade of experience as an insurance broker and has proudly been with Threefold since early 2019.
Originally from Wales in the United Kingdom, Howard spent over 25 years in the Royal Marines. A talented musician, Howard played Oboe in the Royal Marines Band for years before retiring from the Marines in 2009 and moving to New Zealand with his family.
Upon arrival in New Zealand, Howard spent eighteen months in the New Zealand Navy, based in Devonport. He played in the Royal New Zealand Navy band.
Once happily settled on the North Shore, Howard turned his attention to insurance. He has applied the discipline and work ethic of the Marines to his clients and proudly strives to deliver the best policies and service possible.
Beyond work, Howard is a (long-suffering) Manchester United fan. He loves music, listening to a broad variety of genres, and is the proud father of three children.
Job Titles:
- Director
- Financial Adviser
Since embarking on his journey in 2002, Jonathan Michell has amassed over two decades of industry experience distinguishing himself as one of the top mortgage advisors in NZ for much of that time. While he possesses a comprehensive understanding of tax and legal structures relating to property investment he is quick to collaborate with financial experts to ensure his clients receive the specialised advice when needed.
Jonathan's strength is helping you structure your mortgage and financial affairs to achieve maximum financial benefits whether you are a first home buyer, a business owner, self-employed professional or have a large investment portfolio. Having been in the industry for so long Jonathan sees his favourite part of the job as catching up with his clients over the years and seeing how much they have achieved in a personal and financial sense and being able to pass his financial knowledge to them to help them achieve and often surpass their original financial goals.
Outside of the professional realm he treasures moments spent with his young family, keeps a pulse on current events and loves everything property.
Julie Bernicoff has worked in finance for over 25 years; the last 17 here in New Zealand within the mortgage and lending sector. She is an administrative expert making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
Julie is passionate about taking the very best care of clients, in person and through her administrative efficiencies. When she's not in the office, she'll be enjoying an open air walk, spending time with her family, meeting up with friends or reading a good book.
Job Titles:
- General Insurance Adviser
Lance has been in the insurance industry for over 10 years and has vast experience in both personal and business insurance. He studied Financial Management in Insurance (UNISA) and was previously the co-owner of a brokerage firm in his native South Africa.
Lance, his wife and young son emigrated to New Zealand in 2017. He has been with Threefold ever since. When asked what attracted him to the company, he cites the company's values, in particular the priority they put on family.
Outside of the office, Lance has his hands full with two young boys. He's always been an active sportsman with a real passion for cricket. For several seasons now, Lance has played for the Parnell Cricket Club (The Prunes) as a handy batsman who can also dabble in some medium-paced bowling.
A through-and-through family man, Lance is happiest spending time with his family and friends whilst working the BBQ/braai.
Lesley is the Office Manager at Threefold responsible for accounts and ensuring the smooth running of the office on a day to day basis. She is a diligent, highly motivated professional with proven office and business administrative abilities having worked in various industries. She loves being part of the friendly team at Threefold. She enjoys thriving under pressure, while achieving strict deadlines and managing chaos in a calm, confident manner.
Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her family, walking her dog along many of the beautiful North Shore beaches, drinking good coffee and sampling the odd glass or two of wine.
Job Titles:
- Financial Adviser
- Insurance Adviser
Meet Sharon McAlister, an experienced Insurance Adviser with a strong background in both mortgage and insurance industries. With a deep understanding of the financial landscape, Sharon is committed to providing her clients with the highest level of service and expertise.
Sharon's approach to business is centred around building strong relationships with her clients. She understands that each client has unique needs, preferences, and financial situations, so she takes the time to listen and work closely with them to find the best possible solutions. Her personalised service ensures that each client receives individual attention and tailored recommendations to meet their needs.
Whether you are seeking insurance protection for your family or business, Sharon is here to help. Her wealth of knowledge and experience allows her to guide you through the often complex process of selecting the right policy for your needs.
Sharon is a Registered Financial Advisor and a member of the following professional bodies:
Kan Adviser Network
Financial Advice New Zealand
Michelle brings over 35 years of experience in the financial industry to her role as a Senior Mortgage Advisor.
With a distinguished career primarily at HSBC, Michelle has developed a deep expertise in mortgage advising, customer relationship management, and regulatory compliance. She has a proven track record of exceeding targets, managing high-net-worth client portfolios, and maintaining strong customer relationships, earning her numerous awards and recognitions both locally and globally.
Michelle holds a Financial Services Residential Property Lending (Level 5) certification, alongside her extensive experience.
Beyond her professional life, Michelle is dedicated to her family including spending loads of time with her grandchildren and has a passion for showing her dogs at dog shows. At Threefold, Michelle leverages her vast experience and personal approach to guide clients through their mortgage journey, ensuring solutions that align with their long-term financial goals.
Nicky is a super-efficient detailed person. She provides essential support for Threefold's Insurance Brokers, helping them to get the paperwork right, liaise with the insurance companies and ensures that everything happens in time for new business and renewals.
"My career has been revolved around helping people get the best insurance premiums and terms and ensuring documents are accurate and arrive on time for our clients. It's satisfying to know I have done the best I can for our Threefold's customers' and building that relationship with them, says Nicky.
A young family keeps Nicky on her toes and leisure time is often spent at one of the North Shore's lovely beaches. She also has an artistic streak, which directs into graphic design and painting projects.
Job Titles:
- Director & General Insurance Adviser
Peter Snedden has worked in insurance for over four decades so his insight is of enormous benefit to clients for both commercial and domestic insurance. He says, "We cover it all; commercial, property, liability, marine and domestic - It takes realistic focus to put the right protections in place. We're able to tap into a broader insurance market to create the ideal insurance programme for you".
Peter's easy manner belies the seriousness of his attention. He is committed to helping clients put in place the right protection for their unique circumstances. When he's not in the office, he'll be enjoying his grandchildren or getting in the occasional round of golf.
I have 6 years' experience in the banking industry where I developed advanced knowledge in residential home lending working in the retail and private banking space, including business and commercial banking.
I personally managed a substantial portfolio of clients assisting them with their ongoing financial needs.
I pride myself on my excellent communication skills and I have a passion for helping my clients achieve their goals.
I have spent many years living and working overseas where I gained valuable life experience.
Outside the office, I enjoy riding my motorbike, surfing, snowboarding, and weightlifting.
A highly experienced Threefold mortgage adviser, Tania has been working in the financial sector for 16 years. She holds a Bachelor of Business Studies and speaks fluent French, because she grew up in Tahiti. Number crunching comes naturally to Tania, who admits to loving complex home loan challenges.
"No deal is the same and every customer has different needs, so my work is always interesting. I particularly like sorting out the detailed requirements that come with some property finance projects", says Tania.
Having lived in Tahiti and Samoa, Tania enjoys spending time at the beach with her husband and three children. As a family they love to broaden their horizons with travel.
Job Titles:
- Insurance Administration Support
Verona is an experienced professional with a deep understanding of the insurance industry, bringing over 17 years of expertise to her role as an Insurance Adviser Support at Threefold Group.
Having worked with various insurers in Australia and New Zealand, Verona has gained valuable insights and knowledge across different aspects of insurance operations, including new business, underwriting, existing business and product development.
Throughout her career, Verona has demonstrated a strong commitment to providing exceptional support and assistance to insurance advisers and clients. With a solid background in operations roles, she is adept at managing administrative tasks, streamlining processes, and ensuring smooth communication between advisers and clients. Her attention to detail, organisational skills, and comprehensive understanding of insurance processes makes her a valuable asset to the team.
Outside of work, Verona cherishes every chance to spend quality time with her family, who is her joy and inspiration.
With over 20 years of experience, Yvonne has worked with a variety of clients, ranging from individuals to companies, providing tailored insurance solutions to meet their specific needs.
Yvonne's expertise includes Personal and Business Insurance, health insurance, and specialty insurance products. She takes pride in providing her clients with personalised service, working closely with them to understand their unique requirements and providing them with the best possible coverage options.
Yvonne is committed to ensuring that every client's end-to-end experience with Threefold Mortgages is seamless, professional, informative and, most importantly, exceeds their expectations. She considers that effective communication (digital and in person) is a cornerstone of her role and strives to keep clients and stakeholders fully informed of company or industry updates.
Staying up to date with the latest developments in the insurance industry, attending regular training and education programs to ensure she is always equipped with the most current knowledge and skills.
If you're looking for a trusted Insurance Adviser who can help you navigate the complex world of insurance, Yvonne is here to help. Contact her today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how she can help you protect your assets and achieve your goals.