The CUInsight Network podcast: Growth solutions – Allied Solutions

Thank you for tuning in to The CUInsight Network, with your host, Lauren Culp, President & CEO of CUInsight. In The CUInsight Network, we take a deeper dive with the thought leaders who support the credit union community. We discuss issues and challenges facing credit unions and identify best practices to learn and grow together.

My guest on today’s show is Mark Bugalski, Executive VP and Chief Growth Officer at Allied Solutions. Mark brings over three decades of experience to the industry and shares his career journey that led him to his current role. Allied Solutions is focused on using technology-based solutions to help clients grow their bottom line, protect their business and members, and evolve to stay ahead of the competition.

During our conversation, Mark shares how Allied Solutions’ business model is designed to help credit unions grow and serve members, regardless of economic conditions. He explains how credit unions can navigate today’s challenging economic landscape by focusing on mitigating risks and optimizing non-interest income. As we look to the future, Allied Solutions is focused on innovating to continue supporting credit unions and providing them with tools for growth and longevity. 

As we wrap up the episode, Mark shares the many reasons he admires Pete Hilger’s leadership, his love for a 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass, and his book recommendation. Enjoy my conversation with Mark Bugalski!

Connect with Mark:
Mark Bugalski, Executive VP and Chief Growth Officer at Allied Solutions
alliedsolutions.net
Mark: LinkedIn
Allied Solutions: LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | X

Show notes from this episode:
What an amazing interview with Mark! Check out all the exceptional work their team is doing over at Allied Solutions here.
Want to hear more from Mark? Click here.
Shout-out: The National Credit Union Foundation
Shout-out: America’s Credit Unions
Shout-out: Securian Financial
Shout-out: CFPB
Shout-out: Pete Hilger
Shout-out: Oldsmobile Cutlass
Place mentioned: Park City, Utah
Shout-out: Dale Carnegie
Book mentioned: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

In this episode:
[01:52] – We learn that Mark initially considered a career as either a veterinarian or a pilot.
[03:00] – Mark shares his career journey that led him to his current role at Allied Solutions.
[05:49] – Allied Solutions focuses on providing credit unions with innovative solutions to grow and protect credit unions.
[09:23] – Credit unions face declining rates and liquidity challenges, making improved risk management strategies necessary.
[12:11] – Mark points out that new non-interest income strategies are vital to replace lost revenue and to ensure compliance.
[16:37] – Allied Solutions has specialized teams nationwide, providing tailored support to credit unions in each state.
[19:32] – Allied Solutions’ culture values innovation, teamwork, and respect, fostering a positive work environment.
[20:58] – Mark credits Allied Solutions’ success to innovation.
[23:31] – Mark expresses gratitude for Allied Solutions’ CEO Pete Hilger..
[27:35] – Mark shares his book recommendation.
[28:49] – Mark prioritizes physical and mental wellness, incorporating daily exercise to manage stress and improve productivity.
[30:36] – In closing, Mark states that the credit union industry requires a commitment to evolution and collaboration with proven business partners for growth.