The Associate Director is pivotal in supporting the governance and strategic direction of Royal Credit Union (RCU). As a non-voting member, the Associate Director actively participates in Board meetings, contributes to discussions, and serves on subcommittees to provide insights and expertise in areas critical to the Credit Union's mission. This role is designed to develop leadership skills, foster an understanding of RCU and board governance, and prepare individuals for future roles on the Board. By collaborating with voting Directors, the Associate Director helps shape the Credit Union's initiatives, ensuring alignment with its values and commitment to serving its members.

Key Responsibilities:

Governance and Strategic Leadership:

• Collaborate with the Board and RCU's Executive Team to develop and evaluate short- and long-term planning strategies, ensuring alignment with member needs and RCU's mission.
• Review and actively participate in discussions regarding Board-level policies, annual budgets, and business plans.
• Continuously evaluate, define, and represent RCU's Core Purpose and Values, ensuring they reflect its commitment to members and the communities it serves.

Advocacy and Representation:

• Act as an advocate for RCU, representing it within the credit union industry and the communities it serves, and promote its services as appropriate in day-to-day interactions.
• Promote RCU's services in day-to-day interactions and public forums.

Financial and Operational Oversight:

• Evaluate RCU's financial performance to ensure objectives are met and operations remain sound, and actively participate in discussions regarding appropriate corrective measures, as applicable.
• Designate depository banks, review surety bond requirements for each officer and team member having custody of funds, and assess member status requirements as stipulated in the bylaws.

Education and Development:

• Associate Directors must be willing to complete financial literacy certification within the first six months of the term.
• During the first year, engage in a structured education program covering credit union history, governance, risk management, fiduciary duties, Board/CEO relationships, and strategic planning.
• In the second year, continuing education in audit requirements, succession planning and recruitment, and internal controls.
• Associate Directors must be willing to attend at least one national educational program annually to enhance governance skills and industry knowledge.

Board and Committee Engagement:

• Actively participate in all Board meetings, subcommittees, and strategic planning sessions.
• Associate Directors must possess sound judgment and contribute to the decision-making process. They should be able to analyze and evaluate the soundness of programs, planning, and strategies. They should be imaginative and willing to improve and add programs that fulfill Members' needs and expectations.
• Prepare diligently for meetings and contribute to discussions with sound judgment and forward-thinking ideas.
• Maintain a harmonious working relationship with existing Board members and collectively uphold decisions.

Ethics and Leadership:

• Demonstrate integrity, loyalty, and fairness in all interactions with members, fellow RCU Board Director team members, and regulators.
• Disclose any potential conflicts of interest and avoid self-serving decisions or personal crusades.
• Always Uphold fiduciary duties and act in the best interests of RCU.

Personal Attributes and Competencies:

• Exhibit professional competence, emotional stability, self-confidence, and a sense of responsibility.
• Candidates should possess a strong credit history and have received acknowledgment for their outstanding personal financial stewardship.
• Possess strong business acumen, sound judgment, and the ability to evaluate and improve programs to meet RCU member needs.
• Be innovative, forward-thinking, and willing to accept leadership responsibilities.

Commitment and Expectations:

• Time Commitment: Attend monthly Board and subcommittee meetings, dedicate additional time for preparatory reading, and participate in ongoing training and community events.
• Term: Currently, there is no specified term for Associate Directors. Board succession and annual meeting membership elections will determine the transition to a full voting director role.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant area of expertise, with a strong preference for a master's degree and/or advanced certification pertinent to the banking industry. Specific areas could include General Banking & Leadership, Risk Management & Compliance, IT & Cybersecurity, Financial Planning & Wealth Management, Business Administration, and specialized Credit Union certifications.
• Work history to include a minimum of 10-15 years of experience in senior leadership roles in one or more of the functional areas:
• Business Management
• Customer Service
• Education
• E-commerce
• Finance
• Human Resources
• Information Systems & Technology
• Marketing
• Planning
• Legal & Compliance