Bedford, TX, May 15, 2019 — New for 2019, State National has convened 11 well-respected leaders in the credit union industry together to form the company’s first Client Advisory Council (CAC).

Members representing credit unions of varying sizes from around the U.S. will meet quarterly to network with industry peers, share challenges and solutions for common business challenges, and discover best practices that can be shared within their organization, as well as provide input and advice regarding industry developments and State National’s strategic product and services direction.

Trace Ledbetter, Executive Vice President at State National and Executive Sponsor of the CAC, described the intention behind the group’s formation, explaining, “We’re really excited about providing this platform for some of our most valued client partners so they can benefit from the many opportunities it offers — and through this collaboration they are also helping our company make informed business decisions so we can better serve their institutions in the future.”

“I think it is valuable to hear what others are doing and what other opportunities are out there, and I like networking with others in the same industry,” said member Stacy Callahan from SIU Credit Union. Added John Cotner from Icon Credit Union, “I especially enjoyed our recent technology discussion — it’s always great to hear success stories from others that are utilizing technology my credit union isn’t currently using.”

One of the goals of the council is to provide valuable industry knowledge to members. In its first and second quarter meetings, participants have had the opportunity to hear from speakers like credit union expert and consultant Mark Sievewright, who touched on current trends and future insights relating to technology in the financial industry, and Christie Kimbell, Chief Experience Officer at Filene, who shared custom research on Artificial Intelligence and Financial Services.

“Our objective for the council is to give some of our top clients a forum to discuss issues that are critically important to them and to us. Our CAC members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience,” said CAC Program Manager Heather Clyde. “We greatly value their feedback and guidance on our products and services to help us better meet their needs, while also gleaning invaluable business intelligence that can influence our own strategic initiatives.”