What the credit union board should know before hiring a bank executive

On the surface, the differences between running a bank and running a credit union seem very similar. However, for the Board of Directors to select the right executive to lead a credit union, it must consider that credit unions differ significantly from traditional banks’ structure, purpose, and values. The purpose of a credit union transcends the income statement and balance sheet, and that purpose must be considered when hiring a bank executive to run a credit union. The Board must be well-informed about the nuances of the credit union industry and the unique challenges and opportunities these differences pose for the new executive. While both institutions serve the same fundamental purpose of providing financial services to their members or customers, the transition for a bank executive can present several unique challenges. In this article, we will explore bank executives’ obstacles when transitioning to credit unions and offer insights on overcoming them. This article will explore the key factors that boards should consider before making this crucial decision.

Understanding of the cooperative model

Credit unions operate under a cooperative, member-owned model, which is fundamentally different from the shareholder-driven approach of banks. The Board needs to grasp the cooperative philosophy of credit unions, which emphasizes member-centric service, community engagement, and financial well-being. The chosen bank executive should understand and genuinely embrace and embody the seven cooperative principles:

 

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