The Filene Research Institute has found its new chief engagementofficer in Mollie Bell, former CUNA Mutual Group vice president inthe program management office.

“Mollie is a leader with a rare combination of intellectualcuriosity and a 'do-it' mindset,” said Mark Meyer, CEO of theMadison, Wis., credit union think tank.

“She will fit beautifully with Filene's focus on research anddeveloping innovative solutions for credit unions. She buildsrelationships and strategic partnerships and she just gets thingsdone,” Meyer said. “Bringing her on to the Filene team will makeall of us better.”

With Filene's commitment to engaging with partners and betterdisseminating a variety of research findings and emerginginnovations, Bell will be responsible for communicating thosefindings and recruiting partners and supporters to build out theimpact of Filene's work, Meyer said.

In the newly created position, she also will be charged withsupporting and growing the many communities that Filene is buildingwithin the credit union system and across corporate and cooperativecommunities.

Prior to joining CUNA Mutual, Bell held consulting positionswith Accenture, a global management consulting and technologyservices organization. Her previous experience also includesteaching, sales and business ownership. She earned a law degreefrom the University of Texas School of Law and a bachelor ofbusiness administration degree from Lamar University.

Bell said her varied background has served as stepping stones toher current role at Filene.

“So there's never been this direct career path. EverythingI've done has been some new challenge and learning experience,”said Bell. “For me, the bigger story is being open to newpossibilities and growing intellectually as well. I never imaginedI'd be landing where I am, but I can't express how much I thinkthis role is such a nice fit and the next step to that story. “

She added she is looking forward to learning what members valuemost as she gets out in the industry more.

“I'm excited to be a part of such a dynamic organization that iscontinually looking to challenge the status quo,” Bell said. “Theteam at Filene is always looking for the next big thing for credit unions. I look forward to growing thealready strong brand recognition for research and innovation onissues involving consumer finance and credit unions.”