DUBLIN, Ohio–Becky Howell, MedPro Division CEO of Ohio HealthCare FCU, retired at year-end after a 38-year career in credit unions, including the last 33 as CEO. During her career Ms. Howell oversaw growth from $4 million to $17 million in assets, before partnering with Ohio HealthCare FCU to create the now $82 million Ohio HealthCare FCU, which serves the healthcare industry in Ohio.
Below, Ms. Powell shares some parting thoughts with CUToday.info readers as part of this CUToday.info Q&A:
CUToday.info: How did you come to be involved in credit unions?
Howell: I was in my early twenties and my sister suggested I apply for an open position at Summit Federal Credit Union. I began my career as a teller and then moved into the loan department. Later I worked in the collection department and by that time I was hooked.
CUToday.info: What lessons have you learned about driving and managing growth?
Howell: Growth must be managed in a safe and controlled way. Making sure the credit union’s growth is balanced to ensure great member service that will bring results that benefit your current members and future members.
CUToday.info: What lessons have you learned about managing people, and how has that evolved?
Howell: Finding committed employees is key to building the team that will serve your members well. When you find the right people, who have passion for what they do, it is no longer just a job. It becomes their way of life and this will naturally work out best for the members we serve.
CUToday.info: If you could go back and talk to yourself on your first day of CEO, what advice do you share?
Howell: Running a credit union can and will be difficult and at times you will wonder why you are there. But at the end of the day you’ll know you have made a difference and your efforts will improve the life of your members. Offering great financial services to your members is a priority.
As I move on, I am reminded of the many "friends" I have made over the years. I will miss the times they stopped in to show me the pictures of their new grandchild, or tell me about how proud they are of their son or daughter graduating high school. If I was back at day one, I would say relax and enjoy the ride!
CUToday.info: What is your view on the future of credit unions, if there is to be one.
Howell: There is a bright future for our credit unions. It is imperative that we support our small credit unions that are struggling to remain strong and successful. They need our help. Sharing whatever resources and knowledge I have to support their success has been one of my passions over the years. The guiding principal that created our very first non-profit financial institution called a credit union is as important today as it has ever been.