Howard O. Smith
Capitola
Summary
Accomplished credit union and financial services executive with over 25 years of leadership experience driving growth, member engagement, and operational excellence. Proven track record in strategic planning, mergers, branch and call center operations, community partnerships, financial education, and team development. Trusted partner to boards and ALCO committees. Adept at cultivating performance-driven cultures and aligning cross-functional teams with mission-focused goals.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Vice President, Member Services
Santa Cruz Community Credit Union
06.2024 - 07.2025
- Direct oversight of E-Services, Call Center, Branch Operations, Compliance, and Marketing.
- Collaborate with ALCO and the Board to align organizational strategies and risk tolerance.
- Lead digital transformation projects: Ascensus, Online New Accounts, IRA processes, and Zelle.
- Drive continuous improvement through training, audit readiness, and member service enhancement.
Chief Operating Officer
Priority One Credit Union
04.2023 - 04.2024
- Oversaw operations across Branches, Compliance, HR, Facilities, and Call Center.
- Led growth initiatives in membership, lending, and operational efficiency (ROAA).
- Established a performance-oriented sales culture and extended community outreach initiatives.
- Liaised with ALCO and the Board to ensure strategic alignment.
Vice President, Membership & Community Partnership
Pasadena Federal Credit Union
07.2019 - 04.2023
- Managed member relationships, community/business development, and branch performance.
- Designed sales and lending strategies that improved revenue and member satisfaction.
- Implemented metrics-driven systems to track performance and profitability.
Financial Management Technician
U.S. Air National Guard
01.2017 - 07.2019
- Performed audits and reconciliations of federal civilian payroll systems.
- Ensured compliance with government financial reporting requirements.
Branch Manager III
First Entertainment Credit Union
09.2014 - 12.2015
- Directed branch operations and staff development.
- Led service strategies and improved lending performance.
Member Executive Manager | AVP, Regional Director
First Financial Credit Union
01.2012 - 08.2014
- Managed 14 branches, increasing performance from 58% to 127%.
- Oversaw budgeting, forecasting, and executive reporting.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business Management
University of Phoenix
Culver City, CAundefined
Western Credit Union Management School (WCUMS)
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Certified Credit Union Executive (CCUE)
Skills
- Executive Leadership
- Branch/Call Center Operations
- ALCO Collaboration
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Financial Education
- Risk Management
- Coaching
- Member Engagement
- Strategic Vision
- Sales Growth
- Board Collaboration
- Community Partnerships
- Compliance
- Organizational Development
- Consumer Lending
Timeline
Vice President, Member Services
Santa Cruz Community Credit Union
06.2024 - 07.2025
Chief Operating Officer
Priority One Credit Union
04.2023 - 04.2024
Vice President, Membership & Community Partnership
Pasadena Federal Credit Union
07.2019 - 04.2023
Financial Management Technician
U.S. Air National Guard
01.2017 - 07.2019
Branch Manager III
First Entertainment Credit Union
09.2014 - 12.2015
Member Executive Manager | AVP, Regional Director
First Financial Credit Union
01.2012 - 08.2014
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Western Credit Union Management School (WCUMS)
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Certified Credit Union Executive (CCUE)
Bachelor of Science - Business Management
University of Phoenix
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