My last year has truly been amazing!

Since entering the Next Top Credit Union Exec contest I have been promoted on my job. I am now the Sales Manager for La Cap. In my new role I am very instrumental in shifting our credit union into a Sales Environment. Because this is such a daunting task, my Gen Y project was put on hold. The credit union needed me to focus all of my efforts on making sure this was and continues to be a successful transition for us. 

During the competition, I received an invitation to serve on the Young Leaders For Kids Advisory Board. Our job is to come up with ideas to increase credit union participation nationwide in giving to Children’s Miracle Network. Prior to the competition no one knew who I was, so I would not have received this opportunity. Serving in this capacity has truly been a rewarding experience.

I was also selected as a 2011 Crasher, and attended the GAC this year. As Crashers, we were asked to work on a project when we returned home. Seeing the need for a Young Professionals Network in Louisiana, I decided to partner with the Louisiana Credit Union League to launch it. That network has grown to nearly 150 Young Professionals since June, and yours truly is the Chairman.

In April, I attended the CEO Institute I. WOW! That’s all I can say about that. It was truly an amazing experience. The insight we gained from that experience was incredible, and will help in propelling my career for years to come.

I’ve also gotten the opportunity to travel and speak to credit union professionals concerning Gen Y related issues since the competition. Most recently, I was a part of a panel of speakers at CO-OP’s Think Conference, as well as CUNA’s America’s Credit Union Conference.

None of these opportunities would have happened the way that they did had I not stepped out and competed in Next Top Credit Union Exec. It was truly worth it!

*UPDATE: There is now an additional update. I have accepted the position of President/CEO of Shell Geismar FCU. This is an awesome opportunity, and I am thankful to all of you for your help in getting me to this point!

Ronaldo