Directions Credit Union passes $1 billion-asset mark; announces new organization structure with focus on member experience
New Chief Experience Officer and Chief Financial Officer named
TOLEDO, OH (September 18, 2020) — “We’re proud to report that Directions recently surpassed the $1 billion-assets threshold with more than 100,000 members,” said Barry Shaner, President/CEO of Directions Credit Union. Over 67 years, the Credit Union has grown to become one of the largest credit unions in the State of Ohio and has adopted a new organizational structure which addresses the increase in size and complexity.
The new structure provides strategic focus around the member experience and enhances cross-functional alignment and collaboration with the formation of a Chief Experience Officer (CXO) and Membership Experience Division. Directions is pleased to announce the addition of Brian Epstein as the newly created CXO.
Directions created the CXO role to lead the organization’s efforts to further integrate and improve member experience and brand awareness. “As Directions grows and evolves, Brian and his team will ensure that service delivery, no matter what avenue, fulfills our purpose of providing solutions to help our members and communities live better,” said Shaner.
As CXO, Brian is responsible for leading Directions’ continual focus on the member experience, including service, products, technology and new innovative member life-cycle solutions.
Brian has a unique combination of multi-disciplinary skills in branding, operational efficiencies and organizational development as well as a dynamic cross-industry background including financial institutions, the arts, healthcare, and technology. Brian has led many organizations during his long-standing career, such as: President & CEO for Stat3PH, Inc., Principal for Waverly Strategies, LLC, and Board President of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo.
In addition, Directions is excited to have John Ustaszewski join the team as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). As Directions new CFO, John will, also, play a pivotal role to enhance cross-functional alignment and collaboration in the organization. He joins Directions after a 25-year career – most recently serving as Senior Vice President of Finance & Operations at Central Federal Corporation and CFBank. Additionally, John has directed organizations in many key financial areas, including: Chief Financial Officer for DCB Financial Corp and Delaware Country Bank, Senior Vice President and Risk Manager for Corporate One, and Assistant Vice President and Controller for Corporate One.
“John has extensive experience in leading cross-functional, multi-dimensional teams over the course of his career. This success has well-positioned him to lead Directions’ short- and long-term organizational goals in the coming years,” said Shaner.
John holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance from Bowling Green State University and is a Certified Public Accountant in the State of Ohio.
Brian holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and management from Albion College and a master’s degree in human behavior and leadership development from Plymouth State College.
John Ustaszewski
Brian Epstein
About Directions Credit Union
Directions Credit Union was founded in 1953 as St. Clements Credit Union. Over the years, the credit union has grown to become the one of the largest credit unions in the State of Ohio. Directions Credit Union has current assets of more than $1 Billion and over 100,000 members. There are 23 branch locations in the Toledo Area, Central Ohio, and Southeast Michigan. Directions offers a full array of financial services including savings, checking, investments, auto loans and leasing, mortgage and home equity loans, credit cards, personal loans, and business services. These offerings generally feature better rates and lower fees than traditional banks. Membership is available to persons who live, work, worship, attend school or volunteer in Wood, Fulton, Lucas, Huron, Ashland, Richland, Wayne, Knox, Tuscarawas, and Crawford Counties in Ohio and Lenawee and Monroe Counties in Michigan. To learn more about Directions Credit Union visit www.directionscu.org.
