First National Appoints New Director

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TORONTO, March 26, 2013 /CNW/ - First National Financial Corporation (TSX: FN), Canada's largest non-bank originator and underwriter of mortgages, today announced the appointment of Barbara Palk to its Board of Directors.

Ms. Palk is a highly respected financial services executive with a 30-year track record in institutional investment and investment management, previously serving as President of TD Asset Management Inc. She is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors, a Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute and a CFA charterholder. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours, Economics) from Queen's University, and, in 2004, was named one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women.

"Barbara's considerable industry knowledge, extensive management experience and sought-after governance expertise make her an invaluable addition to our board," said Stephen Smith, Chairman and President. "We are delighted that she has agreed to join First National."

Ms. Palk currently serves as a Director of TD Asset Management USA Funds Inc., the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan, Queen's University where she is Chair, The Perimeter Institute and Greenwood College School. Her previous board experience includes the Canadian Coalition for Good Governance, where she chaired the Governance Committee, the Investment Counselling Association of Canada, the Shaw Festival and UNICEF Canada.

Ms. Palk will stand for first-time election to the Company's Board of Directors at First National's May 13, 2013 annual meeting of shareholders.

About First National Financial Corporation

First National Financial Corporation (TSX: FN) is the parent company of First National Financial LP, a Canadian-based originator, underwriter and servicer of predominantly prime residential (single-family and multi-unit) and commercial mortgages. With over $67 billion in mortgages under administration, First National is Canada's largest non-bank originator and underwriter of mortgages and is among the top three in market share in the mortgage broker distribution channel. For more information, please visit www.firstnational.ca.

SOURCE: First National Financial Corporation