Credit union: Great River Federal Credit Union ($352 million, St. Cloud, Minnesota)
Position: Chief Technology Officer
Length of time employed at current credit union: 18 years
CU Times: What are your main responsibilities in your current role?
Derek Rudolph
Rudolph: I am responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of our credit union's technology strategy. My responsibilities include leading the technology team, collaborating with credit union leadership, managing cybersecurity efforts, maintaining compliance with industry regulations and driving technological innovation.
CU Times: What first got you interested in the credit union industry?
Rudolph: When I first started in the industry 18 years ago, I knew very little about the credit union movement, but as the years went by, my understanding of the core mission grew and I became more and more passionate about staying involved. The people I've had the opportunity to work with have also been a big factor.
CU Times: What unique skills, experiences and attributes do you bring to your role?
Rudolph: I pride myself on my ability to stay calm under pressure, especially when faced with unexpected obstacles like technology glitches (which, admittedly, are rare in our industry). My background in IT gives me insight into every part of a credit union's operations and helps me find solutions quickly. Some say problems solve themselves when I'm around. Whether that's true is up for debate, but I don't disagree and embrace the idea that I have a wizard-like set of skills at my disposal.
CU Times: Who (or people) has provided the most help and support in your career journey?
Rudolph: The entire leadership team at Great River has been instrumental in furthering my professional development. I am extremely grateful for the team I'm a part of and all the knowledge I've gained from them. I also wouldn't be where I am today without the daily support from my wife.
CU Times: What is the biggest difference between your current C-level role and your previous non-C-level role?
Rudolph: Your choices have a big impact and affect the course of the company and the professional and personal lives of others. There is a greater responsibility to consider the broader impact of each choice. Another difference is the visibility and potential scrutiny that comes with your decisions.
CU Times: What challenges did you face when you first joined the executive team, and how did you overcome them?
Rudolph: Living up to the expectations I set for myself. I've learned that success in management isn't about instant perfection, but about adaptability, continuous improvement, and the ability to lead with confidence and humility.
CU Times: How would you describe your leadership style today?
Rudolph: My role is for my team members to support me, not the other way around. I encourage autonomy while providing guidance so that individuals have the opportunity to grow. I also see it as my personal responsibility to provide others with the resources to succeed that I inherited from other leaders.
CU Times: What lessons have you learned in your career about how to communicate well with others? And do you approach communication differently depending on the generation you’re communicating with (Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z)?
Rudolph: Be quiet and listen more. Effective communication starts with listening and truly understanding the other person. I don't change my communication style based on generation. Instead, I take into account the individual and their perspective.
CU Times: What are some ways to achieve work-life balance, set boundaries and avoid burnout at work?
Rudolph: I aim to promote a fun work environment to reduce the daily stress of my team members. When colleagues are going through a difficult time, it can spill over into their personal lives, making it even more difficult to maintain balance. I also think it's important to take time to unplug from technology and enjoy the outdoors.
CU Times: What is the next step in your executive career? Are there any specific career goals you are working towards?
Rudolph: I am steadily increasing my knowledge of technology and various aspects of credit unions. My goal is to continue to use the knowledge and skills I acquire to improve the work of our credit union and those around me.
CU Times: What larger impact do you hope to make within the credit union and to its members and community?
Rudolph: I am committed to positioning our credit union as a leader in financial innovation, where technology is not just a tool but the foundation for success. My goal is to provide our credit union and its members with digital solutions that empower them to achieve their life goals. We see ourselves as a technology company that delivers financial services in many ways, and we are constantly pushing the envelope to improve our members' experience, ensure their financial security, and contribute to the well-being of our communities.
CU Times: If you were to give your younger self some career advice, what would it be?
Rudolph: Don't be afraid to put yourself out there. I was often hesitant to take risks or step out of my comfort zone for fear of failure or rejection.
Are you or someone you know willing to share their journey to becoming a credit union leader? Contact Natasha Chilingerian at (email protected) To be eligible, individuals must be a member of a credit union's leadership team or C-level and have a compelling story to share about how they got to their current leadership position.
