Volunteering Enthusiast & Former Higher Ed Professional Finds His Footing as CU CIO

Name: Jason Lewin

Credit union: AmeriCU Credit Union ($2.6 billion, Rome, N.Y.)

Title: Chief Information Officer

Age: 38

Number of years at current credit union: Nine years as of June 2024

Educational background: MBA in Economic Crime and Fraud Management from Utica University in Utica, N.Y.

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

Lewin: Develop a comprehensive digital strategy for AmeriCU through research and the seamless integration of cutting-edge technologies to enhance the member and employee experience. Create and execute a technology roadmap to offer the best digital products and services for our members and employees. Build a strong support system for our frontline staff. Advance the credit union’s technological infrastructure, ensuring security and driving digital transformation strategies. And mentor the IT leadership team and inspire them to be the best they can be.

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

Lewin: I was looking to transition out of [my previous career in] higher education and explore new opportunities that inspired me. The ‘people helping people’ philosophy resonated deeply with me, especially since I have a passion for volunteering. I currently volunteer for our local Fire Department in Vernon, N.Y., the Coliseum Soccer Club and Boy Scouts of America VVS Pack 25. I find joy in helping others in our community, which is why I work for AmeriCU – they share my same values and believe in giving back.

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

Lewin: My experience in higher education has given me a unique experience, as focusing on the student experience is similar to prioritizing both employee and member satisfaction, while ensuring a seamless user experience with technology.

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

Lewin: My first mentor, Kathy Randall, taught me the importance of understanding the emotional side of management. I believe in hiring employees who possess not just technical skills but also share a passion for collaboration and interpersonal skills. My predecessor also inspired me to delve into the financial side of the credit union, explore fintech innovations and continuously strive to improve.

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

Lewin: Transitioning from being hands-on to trusting and empowering others to handle tasks I used to manage. I had to shift from being an executor to focusing on strategic planning.

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

Lewin: Transitioning from a peer role to a different seat at the table has allowed me to view situations through a new lens. Before I would make recommendations to the executive team; now I am listening to others make recommendations and seeing how the entire executive team works together to get things done. My peers on the executive team were very welcoming and helped me transition with ease. I am grateful to collaborate with a team that values openness, honesty and acceptance.

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

Lewin: My leadership style emphasizes trust in the team by providing guidance and assistance when needed. I strive to create a culture where they feel confident that they have the tools and knowledge to work independently. I believe in letting the team do what they were hired to do, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability.

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

Lewin: Yes, COVID-19 has significantly transformed the role of technology, leading to a shift toward digital self-service solutions and allowing organizations to launch new products and services by leveraging technology without the need for a physical location.

Last year, AmeriCU introduced a Virtual Financial Center where members can now connect from anywhere. Through the addition of virtual appointments and video calls, our full-service Virtual Financial Center team can assist members with nearly any transaction, product or service, just as they would in a physical financial center. AmeriCU expanded its Interactive ATM network to offer members greater convenience, security and flexibility. By leveraging technology, we can offer solutions to address the unique financial needs of our members and employees to work remotely.

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

Lewin: At this time, I am focused on continuing to learn and expand my knowledge in this role.

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

Lewin: My goal is to maintain our impact by constantly delivering the best products and services that prioritize the safety and security of the member. I want to continue to provide our members with financial tools that are not only competitive with larger organizations but also align with our values and are the right choices for our members.

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

Lewin: Advocate for what is right, persevere through challenges instead of giving up and feel confident enough to respectfully voice your opinions. Gain an understanding of the organization by learning about other departments and their roles, making it easier to comprehend and contribute effectively. Expand your knowledge beyond IT to grasp the broader aspects of the organization.

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.