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?
The answer will lie in the philosophy of your next leader. Understand, of course, that you have the opportunity to develop that leader today. How will that future CEO be prepared to handle a changing marketplace without losing sight of the mission and vision that have driven your success for many years? How will new board members be given the insight into your membership – and into your strategic growth ideals – that will yield truly helpful guidance and support?
Written succession plans are a must, absolutely. Take it to the next phase, though. Challenge your teams to build out workable – and calendared – development experiences for the people you envision as tomorrow leaders. Involve your board, your CEO – perhaps even your members – to set your most precious assets up for success.
And for those of you leading teams today, lead every day like you may not be there tomorrow. Only then can you truly prepare the next generation of leaders to make the most of the foundation you’re building today.