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Welcome to the first of (hopefully) many FCCU Team Spotlight blogs! This week I met with Robyn, our VP of Strategic Initiatives. I won’t say any more and let her introduce herself:

Hello! Can you introduce yourself and tell us how long you’ve been at FCCU?

Hi! Robyn Newcomb, I’m the VP of Strategic Initiatives for FCCU. I’ve been here since May of 2017. It’s already coming up on a year here at FCCU! Time flies when you’re having fun!

Can you briefly explain what a VP of Strategic Initiatives does?

Good question. The role of a VP of Strategic Initiatives is to align our operations with the organizational objectives outlined in our strategic plan-- which means taking on an array of projects that create process efficiencies, or explore new product opportunities that will enhance the overall member experience. The focus area of this role is broad, it ranges from the day-to-day business practices to the overall organizational goals.

What does an average day at FCCU look like for you?

A day in the life of “Robyn” is like a revolving door; the completion of one project leads to about 6 more! Strategy never stops, it evolves and only becomes a continuous process. As we grow, and our systems and regulations change, we are constantly re-evaluating how we do things- which ultimately translates into job security!

The fun part….everything I get to work on helps improve our internal operations, boosts our external image, and aids in the overall member experience. Sounds fun, right? Or intense, whichever way you want to look at it. :)

Outside of work, what are some of your favorite things to do?

Chase around my three rambunctious kiddos. I also like vacationing…A LOT!… I just don’t get to do enough of it. Also, this probably sounds sick, but… I like organizing closets. There’s just something so fulfilling about purging unnecessary items and organizing the leftovers-- it gives me a sense of control, which with three boys at home, you often feel you don’t have.

What’s your favorite vacation? I’d say there’s been different destinations based on the different times in my life. Right now, it’s obviously the annual family vacations. When we take these vacations it really gives me the opportunity to refocus on my kids. The day-to-day gets so busy and chaotic, and the days and months pass so quickly. All of a sudden you look at your kids and they’re like SEVEN YEARS OLD!

It doesn’t matter where we go, taking that week to just focus on them, do everything they want to do, and not be distracted by everyday mundane tasks (*like throwing in a load of laundry, or repeatedly cleaning up messes) is necessary. Oddly enough, family vacations aren’t just fun, they’re relaxing!

What’s your favorite volunteering opportunity you’ve done with FCCU and why?

I volunteered at the Special Olympics Tournament this weekend, and I really enjoyed it! The excitement and enthusiasm I got to witness was beyond admirable. No wonder our team loves volunteering at this event!

Additionally, on my very first day of work here [FCCU] I participated in a poverty simulation. It was an eye-opening experience. Participating in this event gave me perspective into what parents, teachers, and students encounter in their day-to-day and how those experiences are impacted by different socioeconomic statuses. The struggle is real.

What is your favorite 80s or 90s jam?

Hands down—"Shoop" [by Salt-N-Pepa]. Not even kidding, I can repeat every word.

When that song comes on, I bust a move and grab the mic [or seize and squeal]- depends on the observer, it’s a matter of perspective. :)

If you could be any animal in the world, which one would you be and why?

Hmmmm….I guess a dog. My coworkers all love them, they're always welcome in our lobbies, no dogs leave without a back scratch and we give away treats in the drive-through. So many perks! Our doggie experience rocks- I’m sold on being one!

What is one FCCU service that you wish more people knew about?

BILL PAY, for sure! It changed my life.

We have over 19,000 members and only about 800 are enrolled. Of the 800, only about 600 are active users. Bill Pay is so easy! I can whip out a bill and pay it in a matter of seconds. Whether I’m tackling a stack, or sending a payment while waiting in line at the coffee shop, it’s quick and convenient.

All my billers are compiled into one mobile application and I only have to remember one password, instead of separate logins for different billers (like Charter or WE Energies). Once you do it, you’re addicted- there’s no going back. You’ll never pay your bills another way.

If you won the lottery, what would you do?

Pay off all our debt! Including our mortgage and Kyle’s (husband) head. His brain has cost us a lot of money (student loans). Two burdens that have benefited us well, but both burdens I’m eager to relieve.

I’d fund our retirement savings and my kids’ college education. I’d probably throw some [money] at our families for all the love and support they have provided us over the years, and then give back to charitable causes that have made a difference in my life or can make a significant difference in the lives of others within my community.

Then, financial freedom awaits!

What does the “credit union difference” mean to you?

To me, the “credit union difference” isn’t so much “we’re a not-for-profit” or “we’re a cooperative,” I think that’s standard lingo. To me it’s more so our culture and how passionate we are at being involved in our members lives and our communities.

It's our service and comradery-- we truly focus on helping people. That help comes in many forms-- financial education, charitable giving, sponsorships, volunteer hours, reduced rates/fees, financial counselors, the latest technology, and more. We are dedicated to helping our members secure the best financial future- that’s our difference.