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.

Credit Union Industry Commentary

Flood Waters Are Rising. Will Credit Unions Come To The Rescue?

It’s time to find ways to support members’ economic recovery.
Credit Union Industry Commentary

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.
Features

Recommended Reading (2Q 2020)

Callahan’s associates offer their take on the best books for credit union leaders.
Industry Insights

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.
Industry Insights

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 ...
Industry Insights

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.
Credit Union Industry Commentary

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 ...
Credit Union Industry Commentary

A Labor Day Lesson From Burning Man

The weeklong desert festival offers deep insights on sustaining a cooperative movement.
Credit Union Industry Commentary

Is The Credit Union Movement Ambitious Enough?

Credit unions are different, and better. Consumers are catching on, but market share indicates untapped opportunity awaits.
Credit Union Industry Commentary

Is Financial Health ‘A’ Thing Or ‘THE’ Thing?

Two conferences this spring bring to light five ideas that credit unions can use.
CreditUnions.com
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