CU Chief Technology Officer's Communication Advice: 'Be Quiet and Listen More'

Name: Derek Rudolph

Credit union: Great River Federal Credit Union ($352 million, Saint Cloud, Minn.)

Title: Chief Technology Officer

Number of years at current credit union: 18

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

Rudolph: I am responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of our credit union’s technology strategy. My responsibilities encompass leading the technology team, collaborating with credit union leaders, managing cybersecurity efforts, maintaining compliance with industry regulations and promoting innovation in technology.

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

Rudolph: When I joined the industry 18 years ago I initially understood very little about the credit union movement, but over the years as I gained a deeper insight into the core mission, I grew increasingly committed to staying involved. The people I’ve had the opportunity to work with have also been a significant factor.

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

Rudolph: I pride myself on my ability to remain calm under pressure, especially when facing unforeseen obstacles such as glitches with technology (a rare occurrence in our field, of course). My experience in IT has given me insight into every part of our credit union’s operations, which has helped in promptly identifying solutions. Some have stated that problems solve themselves when I’m around, and while the truth of that might be up for debate, I’ve not disputed it and embrace the notion of having wizardly skills at my disposal.

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

Rudolph: Every individual in our leadership at Great River has been instrumental in promoting my professional development. I am immensely grateful for the team I am part of and all the knowledge I have gained from them. I would also not be where I am today without the daily support provided by my wife.

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

Rudolph: Your choices carry significant weight and can influence the trajectory of the company, impacting the professional and personal lives of others. There’s a greater responsibility to consider the broader implications of each choice. Another difference is the visibility and potential scrutiny that comes with your decisions.

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

Rudolph: Living up to the expectations I placed upon myself. I’ve learned that success in an executive role isn’t about immediate perfection, but instead about adaptability, continuous improvement, and the ability to lead with both confidence and humility.

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

Rudolph: My role is to support my team members, instead of the other way around. I encourage autonomy while providing guidance so individuals have the opportunity for their own growth. I also believe it’s my personal responsibility to provide others with the resources for success that I’ve received from other leaders.

CU Times: What are some lessons you’ve learned over your career concerning how to communicate well with others? And, do you approach communication differently depending on the generation of the recipient (boomer, Gen X, millennial and Gen Z)?

Rudolph: Be quiet and listen more. Effective communication is rooted in listening and genuinely comprehending others. I don’t change my communication style based on the generation. Instead, I consider the individual and their perspective.

CU Times: What are some ways in which you achieve work/life balance, set boundaries and/or avoid burnout at work?

Rudolph: I aim to promote an enjoyable work environment to ease the daily stress for my team members. When colleagues are having a hard time, it can overflow into your personal life, further creating difficulties in maintaining balance. I also find it important to take time away from technology and enjoy the outdoors.

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

Rudolph: I’m consistently growing my knowledge in technology and the various aspects of our credit union. My goal is to continue using the knowledge and skills I’ve acquired to improve the credit union movement and those around me.

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

Rudolph: I am dedicated to positioning our credit union as a leader in financial innovation, where technology is not just a tool but a foundation for success. My goal is to equip our credit union and its members with digital solutions that empower them to achieve their life goals. In many ways, we see ourselves as a technology company that offers financial services, constantly pushing the boundaries to enhance member experiences, ensure financial security and contribute to the well-being of our community.

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

Rudolph: Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. I sometimes hesitated to take risks or step outside my comfort zone, fearing failure or rejection.

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.