Management

Macro trends will have a profound effect on CUs. Mark Sievewright Credit union executives often ask me to provide input during their strategic planning process. For example, what do I see in the broader financial services market, and how can credit unions position themselves for success? Typically, I share the... READ MORE

Recent Hill actions prove the CU voice is heard in Washington. Mark Wolff Credit unions are known in Washington, D.C., for the power of their grassroots-based political involvement. A significant portion of the Credit Union National Association’s (CUNA) advocacy efforts go to grassroots cultivation. There’s the Hike the Hill program... READ MORE

The first six months saw great challenges. More will come. Daniel A. Mica It has been said that time has no divisions to mark its passage. It’s just us humans who bang a drum, shoot off some fireworks, or declare a holiday to celebrate the moment. So, here’s a very... READ MORE

Business philosophy: ‘Life is short. Go for it!’ Who: Glenn Barks What: CEO, First Community CU Where: Chesterfield, Mo. Key to successful branch planning: Understanding that if there’s a financial institution on every corner, you’d better be accessible to your potential members. You have to know where they live and... READ MORE

LEAD STORY Times are tough—for credit union leaders, employees, and members. But tough times hold more than lessons. They’re a gift, according to J. Barry Griswell and Bob Jennings, authors of “The Adversity Paradox: An Unconventional Guide to Achieving Uncommon Business Success.” How do you find the hidden gifts in... READ MORE

View your strategic plan as a road map written at the beginning of a journey.

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Mary Mink CUs with resources and vision are making the most of lower construction costs and real estate bargains. A credit union branch groundbreaking takes on greater meaning today for the optimism and anticipation of the growth it symbolizes. Across the country, credit unions are building branches in support of... READ MORE

By Judy Dahl Linda Amoroso Employers walk a fine line when disciplining employees for personal behavior. But what should a credit union do if an employee defaults on a credit union loan? “Our primary goal regarding any default is to immediately work one-on-one with the member—in this case, the employee—to... READ MORE

Credit Union Magazine subscribers have chosen Cathie Tierney, CEO of $1.2 billion asset Community First Credit Union, Appleton, Wis., as the 2009 Credit Union Hero of the Year. She’ll receive her award at (and complimentary registration to) the America’s Credit Union Conference & Expo  June 21-24 in Boston. Tierney has... READ MORE

By John Wallace Today’s economic realities, a record number of discrimination charges, and recent legislative changes are causing more credit unions to log time in court. As credit union leaders take important steps to manage their operations—staff reductions, benefit changes, or hiring new employees—these measures are fueling litigation more often... READ MORE