UFCU’s First Chief People Officer Draws From Broad Toolkit of Perspectives

Number of years at current credit union: One

Educational background: Executive MBA from St. Mary’s College of California; Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration with HR Focus from California State University, Hayward (now East Bay) 

CU Times: What are your key responsibilities in your current role?

Harrison: I play a key role in driving organizational transformation with responsibility for shaping and executing a people agenda aligned with UFCU’s values and strategic imperatives.

CU Times: What drew you to the credit union industry?

Harrison: Honestly, a credit union career wasn’t something I had planned or even considered at first. I happened to come across an opening at Patelco Credit Union and decided to apply, thinking the role would let me use my existing HR skills while giving me a chance to grow in talent management – an area I knew I needed for my future. After joining Patelco, I realized how fortunate I was to have landed in this space; I truly fell in love with the credit union philosophy of people helping people.

CU Times: What unique skills, experience and attributes do you bring to your role?

Harrison: My journey has been anything but linear, and I truly believe it’s the diversity of my background that shapes how I lead today. Having worked in public, private and private equity-backed organizations ranging from nimble teams of 150 to global enterprises of 150,000, I’ve learned that every environment, regardless of size, brings distinct challenges and opportunities. I’ve had the privilege to grow my career across sectors – manufacturing, hospitality, consumer packaged goods, services, financial services, fintech and credit unions – which means I’m constantly drawing from a broad toolkit of strategies and perspectives.

CU Times: Which person (or people) do you credit the most for helping and supporting you along your career journey?

Harrison: Three people have been instrumental in my journey. First, my mom – she pushed me to believe in myself and reach higher than I’d imagined. Second, Kris Mesker, whose mentorship sparked my passion for HR and became a future boss. Finally, Susan Makris, who, as Chief People Officer at Patelco, provided guidance, challenging assignments and opportunities that shaped my path to executive leadership.
 
CU Times: What are some of the biggest differences between working in your current executive level role and your previous, non-executive roles?
 
Harrison: The biggest difference is how I approach the work. When I reported into the Chief People Officer or Vice President, HR, I was focused on the HR function and executing on the goals for the function. As an executive, I’m an enterprise leader. My approach is focused on what’s happening in the market, how it’s impacting the business, how we need to respond, and then what are the implications from a people perspective.

CU Times: What’s a challenge you faced when you first joined your executive team, and how did you overcome it?

Harrison: I view my transition as less about overcoming challenges and more about embracing a broader organizational perspective. With the elevation of the Chief People Officer role to the senior executive team, my focus is on driving enterprise-wide value. It’s not just about advancing People programs – it’s about contributing to UFCU’s strategic vision as a whole. Every initiative I champion is assessed by its potential to accelerate transformation, foster organizational agility and directly support our overarching business.
 
CU Times: How would you describe your current leadership style?

Harrison: My leadership style is collaborative, growth-oriented and transparent. I believe in fostering an environment where individuals work with me, rather than for me. I invest in the development of the team, value their insights and perspectives, and recognize that holding a “C” title does not equate to me always being correct.

CU Times: What are some lessons you’ve learned over your career concerning how to communicate well with others? 

Harrison: I assume good intent, because it sets a positive tone for any conversation. I do my best to find solutions together and stay open to feedback – there’s always something new to learn from another perspective. Honesty and transparency go a long way in building trust, and I strive to be present and prepared during every interaction. These have helped me connect better with my colleagues and work through challenges as a team.

CU Times: What are some ways in which you achieve work/life balance, set boundaries and/or avoid burnout at work?
 
Harrison: For me, it’s not work-life balance, it’s work-life integration. It’s really about mixing my work and personal life in a way that feels right. Staying disciplined helps a lot, especially when it comes to working out. I like to fit in a morning workout because it makes the whole day better. I also try not to schedule meetings when I know I won’t be at my best. I’m a morning person, so I’d take a 6 a.m. or 7 a.m. meeting over a 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. meeting any day. Just make sure I have coffee!

CU Times: What’s next for you on your executive career journey? Do you have any specific career goals you’re working toward?
 
Harrison: This is my next. UFCU is on the brink of transformative work that ultimately will help us deliver value to our members faster. I’m working toward seeing what’s on the other side!

CU Times: What big-picture impact do you hope to make within your credit union, as well as for your members and community? 
 
Harrison: Our strategic plan calls for UFCU to transform and deliver even greater value to our members. To achieve this, our People team must empower every team member with the skills, tools and confidence to innovate and adapt. By fostering continuous learning, supporting cross-functional collaboration and investing in leadership development, we ensure our team is ready to anticipate and exceed members’ evolving needs.

CU Times: What career advice would you give your younger self?

Harrison: If I could talk to my younger self, I’d remind her to never stop learning, and ask for and take every opportunity that’s given to her, even if it feels a little scary. Life is too short to stay in a role you don’t enjoy. Ask for feedback often, and don’t hesitate to go the extra mile in your work. Lead with honesty and kindness, and remember that the people you surround yourself with – your teammates, partners and collaborators – are an extension of your brand, choose wisely. Most of all, trust your instincts and enjoy the journey.

Would you or someone you know like to share your journey to credit union leadership? Please reach out to Natasha Chilingerian at nchilingerian@cutimes.com. To qualify, the individual must be a part of a credit union's leadership team or C-suite, and have a compelling story to share about their rise to their current leadership role.