ELLEN FORD, CEO of People’s Credit Union, was recently recognized with the Sandra J. Pattie Distinguished Leadership Award at the New England Women in Banking Conference held at Hotel Viking in Newport. The award honors women who contributed to New England’s banking landscape. Ford, who was appointed CEO in 2002, served on various boards in the community, including the Credit Union Association of Rhode Island and the Potter League for Animals.
How has People’s Credit Union donated its time toward giving back to the community? We have an employee-driven Community Enhancement Committee, which provides volunteer opportunities for all employees. Last year, we had 97 percent of our employees volunteer their time and talents to our communities. In addition, our employees support local families through the donation of food baskets, adopting families during the holidays and holding several fundraisers to support many nonprofit organizations.
In what ways has People’s Credit Union grown under your leadership? The financial industry landscape has changed significantly over the past several years with increased regulations and technology. As a result, we have increased efforts toward employee development to ensure we have the skills and talent necessary to meet the ever-changing environment. We place value on work-life balance and collaboration and have been named one of Providence Business News’ Best Places to Work for six consecutive years.
What do you feel are the strongest qualities of a leader? Leadership is not management. I believe that leaders achieve success by realizing that they do not have to have all of the answers. Surrounding yourself with a highly talented and strategic-focused team who can execute the shared vision is critical. Empowering your staff to lead in their own way, consistent with the organization’s core values is key to the collective success of the organization and employee. Sometimes leading means standing beside and sometimes it means standing behind others – and letting them shine. Successful leaders should … possess the ability to build effective relationships across a wide range of personalities, backgrounds and skill sets.
What is your message to aspiring women professionals who are seeking leadership roles? Regardless of gender, leadership is about inspiring others to achieve a shared vision. If you are seeking a leadership role, you must have a strong knowledge to be credible and have the desire to work with others to develop strong teams. Leaders should be authentic and passionate about what they are doing and about the people they are leading.
