Navy Federal Expands Call Center Operations

PENSACOLA, Fla. - As proof that if you build it they will come, Navy Federal Credit Union has announced that it will be expanding its call center operations here. The $23 billion credit union opened its first remote call center here in November 2003 and the 56,000 square-foot facility is already almost filled to capacity, which has prompted the move to expand. According to Navy Federal, a high-quality job force to pull from here is one of the reasons why Pensacola beat out some 60 other locations. The building has earned the distinction of being Florida's first commercial building to receive the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification as an environmentally friendly "green facility"-one of only 25 in the United States. Designed with an eye on developing an employee-focused facility that promotes employee comfort and job satisfaction, the call center features a fitness center, walking trails, an interior bamboo garden feature, training facilities and even a "mothers" room. The employee-friendly environment also provides every staffer spectacular views of its 19 acres of land. "Our members depend on us to meet their financial needs," said Cutler Dawson, president/CEO Navy Federal Credit Union. "We are proud of the employee focused Leadership Energy and Environmental Design facility we built in Pensacola. The addition of our second facility in Pensacola will assist in meeting our vision of performing with such excellence that our members choose us as their primary financial institution." Navy Federal CU's efforts to boost the economy here have recently been recognized by Governor Jeb Bush, who joined Cutler in announcing the new expansion. "Navy Federal is the world's largest credit union and their decision to grow in Pensacola demonstrates their strong belief in and commitment to the community," said Governor Jeb Bush. "Showcasing a distinguished history in supporting member needs, Navy Federal is an outstanding organization and we are proud they have established successful roots in the Sunshine State. I thank Navy Federal for being such an important part of the Northwest Florida family and congratulate the Pensacola-region on securing this newest expansion." According to Navy Federal CU Public Relations Manager Susan Brooks there are no details yet on design plans for the new facility other than it will be adjacent to the existing call center, larger and hopefully another LEED building. She adds that there has been a great deal of community support for the move. "Escambia County is delighted in the new opportunity created by the expansion of Navy Federal," said Escambia County Commission Chairman Bill Dickson. "The expansion will not only create jobs that will provide competitive salaries and excellent benefits for the citizens of our community, it is a wonderful example of the potential of the Heritage Oaks Commerce Park. It is a success story that will be sure to capture the attention of businesses throughout the country." -mdigiovanni@cutimes.com