Chris Howard
Chris Howard is a Senior Vice President at Callahan & Associates. When he’s not workingwith industry-leading credit unionson financial health and well-being, data analytics, fintechs, and credit union impact, he’s moderating a Callahan Executive Roundtable or consulting with any number of credit unions on topics ranging from strategy and governance to member engagement and performance.
Chris has more than 20 years of experience in the field of financial services, eight of those with Callahan. He was instrumental in the launch of Callahan Academyand frequently facilitates course discussion groups about sustainable business strategy, disruptive innovation, consumer-focused product development, and behavioral science.
Outside of financial services, Chris has worked as a U.S. Senate staffer, produced a TV show, taught college courses, written articles for think tanks, and tended bar. His varied background gives him a diverse array of perspectives from which to pull when working with clients on their strategic challenges. As a former banker, Chris saw firsthand how banks put stockholder needs above those of consumers and is dedicated to helping credit unions spread the word that their movement is here to serve average Americans.
When he’s not helping credit unions turn the for-profit model of financial services on its head, he’s exploring everything Washington, DC, has to offer — including museums, parks, food, and history. On pleasant days, Chris enjoys hitting the road on his bicycle or heading out into the countryside. On rainy ones, he opts for a book about politics or business. And, he considers any day a good day to enjoy a glass a fine wine.

How Can Credit Unions Measure Impact?
Callahan & Associates is committed to helping credit unions quantitatively demonstrate they are not only socially and commercially valuable financial institutions but also invaluable community partners.
Flood Waters Are Rising. Will Credit Unions Come To The Rescue?
It’s time to find ways to support members’ economic recovery.
A Take On Modernizing Credit Union Governance
Credit unions need diverse, knowledgeable, representative boards that are able to act inclusively, collaboratively, and with strategic vision.
Recommended Reading (2Q 2020)
Callahan’s associates offer their take on the best books for credit union leaders.
Strategy During A Crisis
Focusing on products and service won’t build lasting, sustainable success; mission-based strategy helps separate real opportunity from feel-good initiatives.
Suffering Members Need More Than Help. They Need To Know You Care.
Emotion, not rational assessment, drives decision-making, and members who report their credit union cares about their financial wellbeing put greater trust in the value of its guidance.
ACTing With Empathy
The ACT Model empowers credit unions to respond to member needs with empathy and lay the foundation for stronger relationships in the future.
Strategy Season Is Still In Session
Real strategy sets the credit union’s course for a decade or more and helps decision-makers determine where to invest and how to grow. It deserves undivided attention.
A Labor Day Lesson From Burning Man
The weeklong desert festival offers deep insights on sustaining a cooperative movement.
The Power Of Purpose Is In The Details
It’s not enough to have a mission statement; to deliver results, a credit union’s purpose must meet four specific conditions.