Get to know our CEO!
Tell me about your career so far, Caitriona.
Having enjoyed a rewarding and progressive 16-year career in the Financial Services sector to date, in both Credit Unions and the Banking sectors, I have a deep passion and understanding of the Credit Union movement and the dynamics and the challenges of the future. I have worked in South Dublin Credit Union for the past 11 years and am delighted with my appointment as Acting CEO. My hope is to drive the development, growth, and future success of South Dublin Credit Union.
What attracted you to work in the credit union?
Having become a member of a Credit Union as a child, the Credit Union has always been there for me from education about childhood savings up to my first loan and beyond. I strongly believe in the ethos of the Credit Union and the people behind it, that make it all work. It’s very rewarding work.
What have you found are the biggest differences in working in a bank and in a credit union?
The Credit Union is a fantastic place to work, unlike working in a bank you are never a number, and you can make a real difference in members’ lives. Working in a not-for-profit and community-based organisation is very important to me. I enjoy giving back to the community through sponsorships and donations and making the time to meet with our members.
What does South Dublin Credit Union have to offer our members?
At South Dublin Credit Union, we focus on offering savings and loan products with very attractive loan rates. We pride ourselves on excellence in member services and giving back to the community. We have a fantastic, experienced team of twelve staff over two branches (Stillorgan and Donnybrook). We also offer assistance over the phone as well as online services through our website.
How do you see South Dublin Credit Union changing in the next 2 years?
We are currently at the final stages of re-launching our phone app and plans are underway for a digital move to a full suite of online services for our members. We will soon launch DocuSign for members to collect loans without the need to call into a branch and a new Greener Home Loan with very attractive home improvement loan rates. I am excited about the future, SDCU will continue to be at the heart of the community as we have for over 54 years but with an added sense of embracing the future and the digital needs of our members.
What are the 3 biggest changes of the credit union in recent years?
Firstly, I would have to say the establishment of South Dublin Credit Union through the merger of St. Mary’s Donnybrook Credit Union and Stillorgan Credit Union in 2017.
It would be remiss not to mention the movement of credit unions to a highly regulated environment with increased levies and higher expectations and reporting measures.
Finally, for us we found that operating as an essential service during Covid 19 and adapting to an ever-changing environment whilst continuing to keep our doors open to our members, was a huge change. Introducing working from home measures, split teams and accommodating all our members’ needs during the pandemic.
