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The CUInsight Network

The CUInsight Network podcast: Resources for growth – Elan Credit Card

Featuring Aaron Melnarik, SVP and Director of Client Relationships at Elan Credit Card

Aaron Melnarik 1320x830px

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Robbie Young, Vice President of Strategic Growth at CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

My guest on today’s show is Aaron Melnarik, Senior Vice President and Director of Client Relationships at Elan Credit Card. We explore his 23-year career, including how he’s helped credit unions deliver value through innovative credit card programs. Listen as we talk about credit union partnerships and how Elan Credit Card helps maximize credit union growth. 

During our conversation, Aaron discusses what it takes to build and maintain successful partnerships in today’s competitive financial landscape. He explains how Elan Credit Card supports credit unions at every stage of the partnership, from launching programs, providing ongoing training, and using technology like APIs to revamp mobile apps.

As we wrap up the episode, Aaron talks about his dad being the most influential leader in his life, golfing with his family, and his love of the Carolinas. Enjoy my conversation with Aaron Melnarik!

Check out all the exceptional work Elan Credit Card is doing here.
Place mentioned: Wisconsin
Place mentioned: California
Shout-out: Client Resource Center
Place mentioned: Fargo, North Dakota
Place mentioned: North Dakota
Shout-out: Card ExtendPay®
Shout-out: Aaron’s dad
Place mentioned: North Carolina
Place mentioned: South Carolina
Place mentioned: Greenville, SC
Place mentioned: Pinehurst
Shout-out: Abraham Lincoln
Book mentioned: Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin

[00:59] – Aaron once aspired to be a professional golfer but found fulfillment managing a client relationship team.
[02:34] – Elan’s credit card program offers robust digital experiences while supporting over 1,200 credit union partners.
[04:05] – The account executive team acts as free consultants, guiding partners to launch and sustain successful programs.
[05:52] – Elan emphasizes ongoing training, quarterly program reviews, and seamless partnerships for long-term success.
[08:41] – Elan supports credit unions through tailored training, direct resource access, and rebuilt mobile apps.
[11:50] – Technology advancements, including APIs and Card ExtendPay®, enhance member experiences and strengthen partnerships.
[14:09] – Aaron credits his father as being the most influential leader in his life.
[15:00] – Aaron values investing time with his twin sons and enjoys splurging on golf equipment.
[16:37] – Aaron’s favorite part of the country is the Carolinas.
[17:21] – Aaron believes that everyone should read Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin.
[18:45] – Aaron emphasizes scheduling and protecting family time, cherishing meaningful moments with his wife and twins.