Both Sides of The Desk!

With over 50 years of experience in the credit union sector, I have had the privilege of observing and participating in its evolution from various vantage points. My journey has taken me from serving as a dedicated volunteer holding critical leadership roles, including serving on the supervisory committee, as director, and as board chairman, culminating in my tenure as CEO for 12 years and now founder and President/CEO of the National Council of Firefighter Credit Unions. This extensive background has enabled me to "Sit On Both Sides Of The Desk," blending operational expertise with strategic oversight.

In this blog post, I want to share how this dual perspective has enriched my understanding of credit union dynamics and fostered more effective governance. By leveraging the insights gained from years spent navigating both the intricacies of daily operations and the broader strategic objectives, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of collaboration, communication, and innovation in fulfilling our mission to serve our members more effectively.

Here are some of my thoughts on the benefits of "Sitting on Both Sides of the Desk".

Better Understanding Operational Challenges and Strategic Goals

In my extensive experience within the credit union sector, I've come to realize the true value of experience. During my time as CEO, I have immersed myself in the intricacies of our operations, gaining a deep understanding of everything from member services to compliance and financial management. Yet, my experience on the board provided a broader strategic perspective. It allowed me to assess long-term goals, policies, and community needs more clearly. This combination of operational insight and strategic vision has empowered me to make more informed decisions that align daily operations with our credit union’s mission and goals.

Enhanced Communication and Collaboration

Navigating both sides of the desk, I feel, has significantly improved my communication and collaboration between the board and management. Having served as CEO, I have a deep understanding of the challenges executives face when implementing board decisions. Conversely, my board experience keeps me in tune with the priorities and concerns of directors. This mutual understanding fosters a culture of collaboration, where executives feel supported in voicing their operational challenges, and board members can make informed decisions grounded in practical realities.

Building Trust and Accountability

I have found that when board members grasp operational challenges firsthand, a foundation of trust is established. Directors become more appreciative of the complexities involved in running the credit union, allowing them to provide support rather than merely exercising oversight. This trust fosters a greater sense of accountability, as both sides work collaboratively toward shared objectives. Executives can present their challenges with confidence, knowing that the board is attuned to the nuances involved in our operations.

Driving Innovation and Member-Centric Solutions

Sitting in both roles has enabled me to recognize innovative opportunities that directly benefit our members. As CEO, I actively engaged with our members to understand their needs and feedback, while my experience on the board helped me translate those insights into strategic initiatives. This dual perspective facilitates the creation of products and services that are not only operationally feasible but also closely align with what our members want, ultimately enhancing their satisfaction and loyalty.

Facilitating Succession Planning and Growth

My varied leadership roles have also provided me with a comprehensive perspective on talent management and succession planning. Understanding the skills and competencies required at both the executive and board levels allows me to identify and nurture future leaders within our organization. This approach ensures continuity in leadership and a robust growth strategy, fortifying your credit union’s resilience in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

Conclusion

In summary, gaining experiences of "Sitting On Both Sides Of The Desk" will unveil a wealth of advantages for your leadership roles. By grasping the intricacies of both operational and strategic roles, you are better equipped to navigate the challenges within your environment. This holistic perspective will lead to improved communication, trust, innovation, and a commitment to member-centric solutions. As the credit union industry continues to evolve, leveraging these dual insights will be crucial in guiding our industry toward a prosperous future. Whether you are a current leader or an aspiring one, embracing the opportunity to understand various facets of credit union operations can lead to more effective governance and, ultimately, a stronger, more responsive management team. 

Grant Sheehan CCUE | CCUP | CEO, NCOFCU
ceo@ncofcu.org | 305.783.3544 | www.ncofcu.org

View my New book,
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F6VWDM2J