Jason M. Jolin is senior vice president and chief financial officer at Navigant Credit Union. Jolin was named to the position after nearly two decades of industry experience. He spent most of his professional career with Citizens Financial Group Inc.
Jolin talks with Providence Business News about himself, what he hopes to accomplish at Navigant and emerging trends in the credit union industry.
PBN: Can you tell our readers a little bit about your professional background?
JOLIN: I have been in the financial-services industry for almost 20 years, primarily in finance and strategy roles at large companies. I began my career at BankBoston as a credit analyst and then went to Citizens Financial Group where I spent 17 years in a variety of positions. Before joining Navigant Credit Union, I also spent time working at CIT Group and Bose Corp. I have been very fortunate to work with and learn from many talented people at multiple companies. I am very thankful for this great opportunity at Navigant Credit Union and I look forward to bringing value to the team.
PBN: How do you see yourself adding value to the Navigant team?
JOLIN: Navigant is already a strong company and great place to work. Being recognized as the No. 1 best place to work in Rhode Island among large employers for a third consecutive year is a great achievement. Obviously, President and CEO Gary Furtado and his leadership team have done a great job growing the company and fostering a great culture. My core values align well with Navigant and I want to continue the success. I am confident that my extensive industry experience will bring value to the company. In particular, I am focused on leveraging my analytical and strategy background to help Navigant as it continues to grow in its communities.
PBN: What personal goals have you set for yourself?
JOLIN: One of the reasons Navigant appealed to me is its commitment to giving back to local communities. The credit union participates in multiple charities and recently created a charitable foundation. Giving back to the community is truly an area that I am passionate about. One of my personal goals is to increase my involvement. I look forward to using my skills and position at Navigant to further contribute to giving back to the community.
PBN: How about for the credit union?
JOLIN: Another reason I wanted to join Navigant is its mission to improve the financial lives of its members. I am passionate about helping people and this role at Navigant enables me to use my skills and experience to make a difference in people’s lives. It is essential that we continue to make good financial decisions with our resources to ensure sustained strong financial performance. Navigant recently expanded its branch footprint in Rhode Island and I want to help the company grow in all markets and bring value to our members.
PBN: What are some of the biggest financial challenges facing credit unions today? Why?
JOLIN: Technology innovation has affected multiple industries, including financial services. As online and mobile banking usage continues to expand, the role of technology will further change the industry in the coming years. It is essential that credit unions continue to invest in the latest technologies to provide competitive services to its members. Making sound financial decisions about investment in certain technologies as well as alternative opportunities to invest capital is critical.
Eli Sherman is a PBN staff writer. Email him at Sherman@PBN.com, or follow him on Twitter @Eli_Sherman.
