Age: 50
 
Number of years at current credit union: 11
 
Educational background: Bachelor's degree in Economics and an MBA with a focus in Management. Graduated as a Certified Credit Union Executive (CCUE) from America’s Credit Unions in 2024.
 
CU Times: What are your key responsibilities in your current role?

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

Arze: I spent five years in the mortgage industry until the financial crisis of 2008. Part of the transition to credit unions felt like destiny, while the other part was driven by the desire for more stability and security. Once I learned about the credit union’s mission of ‘people helping people,’ I knew I had found a place where I could thrive and make a meaningful impact.
 
CU Times: What unique skills, experience and attributes do you bring to your role?

Arze: PAHO/WHO FCU serves a diverse international membership base across the U.S., South America, Central America and the Caribbean. It’s taught me the value of different perspectives and the importance of fostering an inclusive, respectful workplace culture. One of my strengths is making data-driven decisions to make informed choices that benefit both the organization and our members.
 
CU Times: Which person (or people) do you credit the most for helping and supporting you along your career journey?

Arze: I’ve had the privilege of working with so many who have challenged me to step outside my comfort zone. I’m especially grateful to our CEO, Miguel Boluda, who has been both a mentor and a role model throughout this journey. I’m also thankful to our CFO/COO, whose passion, vision and engaging discussions inspire me every day to continuously raise the bar for excellence.
 
CU Times: What are some of the biggest differences between working in your current executive level role and your previous, non-executive roles?

Arze: As a manager, your focus is largely technical and operational. It’s important to also dedicate time to gain a broader understanding of the organization as a whole. Seeing how each department connects and contributes to the bigger picture can give you the more well-rounded, holistic perspective needed as an executive.
 
CU Times: What’s a challenge you faced when you first joined your executive team, and how did you overcome it?

Arze: At times, you may feel a bit lonely, with everyone looking to you for answers and guidance. The pressure to bring innovative ideas to the executive table can be overwhelming. That’s why having the support of your senior leaders, so you can lean on each other’s strengths and navigate tough decisions together, is crucial. It’s similar to sports, as it's not just about showing up for the game. You have to dedicate time to improving yourself, whether by learning new skills, reading books, utilizing resources or networking to deepen your knowledge of the industry. The key is repetition. Every day, I strive to be just a little better than the day before.
 
CU Times: How would you describe your current leadership style?

Arze: I’m an active listener, as I believe in fostering trust, strengthening relationships and enhancing overall team communication. Additionally, I see myself as an analytical leader who prioritizes understanding the facts and processes.
 
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)? 

Arze: At PAHO/WHO FCU, we are fortunate to be a highly diverse organization, with individuals from various backgrounds and nationalities. Effective communication is about creating an environment where people feel safe, heard and valued, which doesn’t happen overnight – it’s something we work to cultivate continuously. Ultimately, good communication across generations is about fostering understanding and respect by prioritizing active listening, empathy and being attuned to non-verbal cues.

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

Arze: The key is finding your own balance. For me, discipline, consistency and a focus on working smart have been crucial. Part of a healthy routine includes making time to read and learn, as continuous growth is important. When you genuinely enjoy what you do, hard work becomes not just a necessity but a rewarding and satisfying experience.
 
CU Times: What’s next for you on your executive career journey? Do you have any specific career goals you’re working toward?

Arze: It’s a journey of continual growth, learning and adding value in every way I can. I’m developing my leadership skills with a focus on strategic decision-making and organizational growth while working toward reaching a C-level executive position, where I can have a greater impact on the direction and success of the organization. I’d also like to give back to the industry by serving on a board where I can contribute to shaping policies, share my expertise and foster collaboration.
 
CU Times: What big-picture impact do you hope to make within your credit union, as well as for your members and community? 

Arze: My view of success is to help unlock human potential and being able to make a positive, lasting impact across generations by helping our members live better, healthier financial lives.
 
CU Times: What career advice would you give your younger self?

Arze: Discover your passion early, and then stay curious, embrace challenges and work hard. Never stop learning and growing. Be intentional and always strive to give your best. Show respect and appreciation for others. Be aware that you may fall more than once through your professional journey, but what matters most is getting back up and continuing to push forward toward your career growth. Resilience is key to success.

Would you or someone you know like to share your journey to credit union leadership? Please reach out to Natasha Chilingerian at [email protected]. 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.