On the final day of America’s Credit Unions’ 2024 HR & Organizational Development Council Conference in St. Pete Beach, Fla., industry professionals shared valuable insights and advice for HR leaders. The panel, moderated by Coastal Credit Union Chief Administrative Officer Mia Perez, featured leaders from various credit unions who highlighted key aspects for HR leaders to consider.
Christine Messer, Chief Financial Officer at Heritage Family Credit Union, emphasized the importance of leadership skills in the finance sector, stating, “I can train anybody to do accounting work, but the leadership side is difficult.” She stressed the significance of engaging with employees for retention and growth, as well as the need for CFOs to be strategic thinkers.
Cynthia Ryan, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer at Connect Credit Union, discussed the evolving challenges in operations, noting the increasing demand for digital literacy among employees. Ryan highlighted the importance of cross-selling products, communication, and utilizing new technologies in today’s operational roles.
Christopher Ortega, Vice President of Enterprise Applications at Suncoast Credit Union, emphasized the cultural fit of potential hires, stating, “What I really want from our HR partners is to figure out if potential hires fit with our group and culture.” He underscored the significance of hiring individuals who align with the credit union’s values and ethos.
Leigh Brady, President/CEO of State Employees' Credit Union, emphasized the importance of lifelong learners who possess emotional intelligence and servant leadership qualities. Brady highlighted the role of CEOs in serving their employees and fostering a positive work environment.
In providing advice for HR leaders, the panelists shared their perspectives:
Christine Messer emphasized the importance of retaining high performers who align with the credit union’s values and contribute positively to its growth.
Christopher Ortega stressed the need for promoting diversity and ensuring that new hires respect and embrace diverse perspectives within the organization.
Cynthia Ryan highlighted the critical role of communication in employee engagement and retention, particularly with key leadership positions.
Leigh Brady expressed gratitude to HR teams for their efforts in implementing organizational changes and emphasized the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the challenging work undertaken by HR professionals.
As the conference concluded, HR leaders were encouraged to consider these insights and recommendations from industry experts to enhance their practices and contribute to the success of their organizations.