BATTLE CREEK, Mich.–OMNI Community Credit Union has named a new president and CEO to succeed the retiring Ted Parsons, who will step down on Dec. 1.
The $589.7-million OMNI Community has selected Mark Cramer, who currently serves as EVP/CFO, to lead the organization. Cramer has more than 25 years of experience in the credit union industry, including 24 at OMNI Community.
The credit union said Cramer will focus on creating efficiencies for the credit union and driving loan growth objectives, and will also lead the initiative of expanding member value and implementing technology enhancements to create a “cohesive member experience.”
“I’m looking forward to seeing OMNI improve the financial lives of both its members and team members. Being able to lead an organization that can accomplish both is an honor and a privilege,” Cramer stated. “OMNI is in a strong position and being able to leverage our strengths will continue to be a guiding light as we look to grow and expand.”
‘Fun Place to Be’
Cramer will also work to continue the culture he’s been a part of and make OMNI a “fun place to be, all while doing what is best for OMNI members,” the 45,000-member credit union said.
“That’s the kind of culture we have, and it’s an honor to retain it,” Cramer said. “Being a part of OMNI for 24 years and having the opportunity to continue that as CEO is a monumental opportunity.”
Cramer, who has a bachelor’s degree in finance from Western Michigan University, started as an administrative clerk and had various roles that included loan administrator, business development manager, and credit manager.
Quarter-Century of Preparation
In 2007, Cramer was named VP of operations at E&A Credit Union in Port Huron, where he led the retail banking, collections and lending teams. In 2008, he returned to OMNI as CFO, and in 2021 was named EVP. He also completed the the-year CUES CEO Institute to earn the designation of Certified Chief Executive (CCE).
“One of the great things about retiring is I get to turn over the leadership role to my good friend and colleague, Mark Cramer,” said Parsons. “Mark has been preparing for the last 25 years and I have full confidence and faith that he will continue the legacy of what has brought us to be the best credit union and best place to work in Michigan.”
Cramer has been a member of the Battle Creek Community Foundation Financial Committee, served as an Ambassador for the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce, and has sat on the CUES Michigan Council Board since 2010.
Long Career for Parsons
The retiring Parsons began his career as a teller working in a bank and through the years took on more responsibility receiving promotions that led him to director of retail banking overseeing the Central Region for the former Michigan National Bank, the credit union reported. He spent 22 years working at the bank before joining Community Choice Credit Union as COO in 2001, before being named CEO at OMNI Community Credit Union in 2005.
“For the past 18 years at OMNI, Ted’s leadership has been able to help grow the organization from thee branches to 13, 65 employees to 135, and 20,000 members, to 45,000 members,” the credit union said. “Looking back though, Ted is most proud of the culture that has been built and the fact that OMNI has given back almost $20 million to members through the Cashback Rebate Program.”
Added Parsons, “We’ve built a loving, caring culture. We’re not just colleagues, we’re family. We’re all committed to providing a great experience for our members and work together to accomplish that. My goal every day was to make a difference for the people I work with, as well as the members of the credit union. I aim to inspire people to be better in their life and I hope my life has affected people in a positive way.”
Retirement Plans
Parsons said he is looking forward to enjoying his retirement by spending time with his children and grandchildren, and intends to travel, write, and continue to be active outside, whether that is hiking, playing golf, or kayaking.
“I feel truly blessed to have served as the CEO of OMNI for 18 years, and bring my passion for the people and the growth of the organization,” said Parsons. “I’ve learned from many different people throughout my journey and even though I’m retiring, I plan to continue learning. I will forever be grateful to the board of directors for the opportunity that was provided to me.”
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