The Next Generation of Credit Union Leaders
by Shazia Manus
What an outstanding honor to be named one of the credit union movement’s 2012 Women to Watch! I could not have been more humbled.
As I celebrate this honor with my colleagues, I’m reminded of the changing face of the credit union leader. It’s reassuring, of course, to see more women attracted to careers in the movement. More importantly, however, it’s exciting to see a diversified approach to leadership happening within the industry.
The simple fact is many of our leaders are nearing retirement. And while some will continue to contribute their insight and guidance long after they transition away from that day-to-day role, the risk of losing knowledge is real. A fresh perspective will be beneficial, of course. Yet we understand history can be one of our greatest teachers.
This is not to suggest history must dictate the future. When leveraged properly and given the correct amount of weight, it can inform (not drive) the decision-making process. How will your credit union retain history? How will you apply its lessons to the choices you must make for the future?