VantageOne Credit Union came up empty-handed on three nominations at the Businesses Excellence Awards Gala hosted by the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce.
Represenatives from the company firm watched as other deserving chamber members walked away with the Sterling Service, personal/professional business of the year and employer of the year awards. But at the end of the night, they were all smiles as they landed the biggest prize of all – business of the year.
“We’re very surprised and honoured to receive this award,” said Glenn Benischek, CEO of VantageOne.
“The process is quite in-depth. Out of this process, we are very honoured to have been chosen.”
Benischek said the secret to VantageOne’s success isn’t much of a secret at all.
“I put it to our people. They’re dedicated to providing a high level of service and helping us realize our vision. That’s important in a commodity-based business. It just makes us better.”
Benischek adds VantageOne’s community involvement is integral to the company’s philosophy, and to its success.
It is currently in discussions with the Vernon Soccer Association to renew the sponsorship contract for the indoor soccer centre.
VantageOne is also an ongoing supporter of the North Okanagan Hospice Society’s Hike for Hospice and the Vernon Junction Literacy Centre’s one-to-one reading program.
“That filters into our organization. The community commitment is one of the biggest things we focus on, aside from the services we provide,” said Benischek.
VantageOne, which won employer of the year last year, operates two offices in Vernon, one in Armstrong and one in Edgewood.
Benischek said the last year has been an exciting one for VantageOne, with the company branching out to include real estate in its existing financial products.
“It is going very well — to be able to offer financing and real estate under one roof.”
