VP's Lending Career Takes Shape Over 24 Years at Florida Credit Union

Name: Erick Padron

Credit union: Tropical Financial Credit Union ($997 million, Miramar, Fla.)

Title: Vice President, Lending

Age: 48

Number of years at current credit union: 24

Educational background: Bachelor of Science, CEO Institute II: Organizational Effectiveness Program

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

Padron: To provide strategic leadership to all of our lending initiatives, including developing new products, identifying potential new partnerships, and acquiring and implementing new technologies in consumer underwriting, mortgage lending, loan servicing and collections.

I am also responsible for developing innovative and critical product and service solutions to best serve the member’s needs and interests.

Overall, I am responsible for continuing to grow our $750 million loan portfolio in a safe and sound manner, including consumer underwriting, mortgage lending, credit risk and collections.

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

Padron: Twenty-five years ago, a family member introduced me to Tropical Financial, giving me my first opportunity to see the differences between a credit union and bank. The account representative’s enlightening information during the account set-up left a lasting impression on me. I vividly recall leaving the branch that day and expressing to my cousin my aspiration to work here. Several months later, that opportunity came, and now all of these years later, I am still devoted to the mission of helping our member/owners achieve their financial goals. Being part of a credit union has proven to be a gratifying and fulfilling experience.

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

Padron: During my career at Tropical, I have worked in various roles, enabling me to gain comprehensive knowledge of every aspect of the credit union. I have led different departments where my passion for member service and lending has played a crucial role in their success.

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

Padron: In 1999, I was brought on board by an exceptional and forward-thinking mentor who granted me the opportunity to join Tropical Financial despite lacking prior banking experience. Not only did she instill belief in me, but she also guided me toward the right path. In the subsequent years, I encountered another remarkable mentor who provided invaluable teachings and support during my initial foray into a management role. This guidance helped me move to a higher level and introduced me to my third mentor. In no time, I connected with his passion and professionalism, which inspired me to follow his example and always strive to get better. Despite their distinct leadership styles, they all share common qualities such as passion, loyalty, professionalism, patience, excellent listening skills and a genuine desire for their employees’ success.

CU Times: What are some of the biggest differences between working in your current executive level role and your previous, non-executive roles?

Padron: Being in an executive role has given me increased decision-making authority and the responsibility to set the overall direction and strategy of the credit union. I now prioritize strategic planning, long-term goals and the overall success of the organization. Additionally, I directly oversee the organization’s lending performance and manage the profit and loss.

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

Padron: The executive team has shown respect and appreciation for my contributions over many years. Moving into the senior management role was seamless. I consider myself fortunate to have an exceptional team and an inspiring leader who consistently motivates us to reach new heights.

CU Times: How would you describe your current leadership style?

Padron: I consider myself strategic and visionary.

CU Times: Do you approach your job any differently now compared to how you did pre-pandemic? If yes, how so?

Padron: Yes. During the pandemic period, we were able to leverage the challenges and uncertainties to our advantage. The unique circumstances prompted a closer examination of our operations, leading to the identification of previously undiscovered opportunities for improvement. As a result, we’ve not only addressed existing issues, but proactively sought ways to enhance our daily operations. This proactive approach has paved the way for the establishment of new efficiencies within our processes, allowing us to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic more effectively. The period has served as a catalyst for innovation and optimization, contributing to a more robust and adaptable operational framework.

CU Times: What’s next for you on your executive career journey? Do you have any specific career goals you’re working toward?

Padron: I have always aligned my career goals with my personal aspirations and the needs of the organization. I will continue seeking mentorship, acquiring relevant skills and knowledge, and most importantly always demonstrate consistent leadership to position myself for advancement within the executive ranks.

CU Times: What big-picture impact do you hope to make within your credit union, as well as for your members and community?

Padron: In my role within the credit union, I aim to make a significant and positive impact on both the institution and its members, as well as the broader community. My overarching goal is to foster financial well-being and empowerment among member-owners by offering a comprehensive range of valuable products, services and educational resources.

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

Padron: I would advise my younger self that is great to have high standards, but it’s also important to allow room for growth.

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, you must have been placed or promoted into a new senior-level leadership role within the last three years at a credit union.