John McKechnie

Geoff Bacino, a former NCUA board member under Presidents Clinton and Bush, and John McKechnie, former head of congressional affairs at NCUA, delve into pressing issues facing America's credit unions. They discuss the tumult at the NCUA, including board shake-ups and staff freezes impacting supervision. The implications of a significant Supreme Court case on regulatory appointments are examined. They also explore leadership changes at America's Credit Unions and future CFPB compliance challenges, wrapping up with some light-hearted NFL predictions.

John McKechnie, a credit union policy expert and former NCUA insider, shares crucial insights about the looming regulatory shifts in Washington. He discusses the potential consolidation of regulatory agencies like the NCUA into a bank-dominated framework, raising alarms about the safety of credit unions. McKechnie also delves into the risks of losing tax exemptions, highlighting tensions between banks and ‘mega’ credit unions. Advocating for proactive measures, he emphasizes the importance of member engagement and advocacy to navigate these challenges.

In this discussion, veteran credit union consultant John McKechnie shares his expertise on crisis communication strategies. He emphasizes the need for quick and transparent messaging during crises, drawing lessons from the 2008 financial meltdown and the aftermath of 9-11. McKechnie underlines the importance of identifying stakeholders and engaging members proactively. He also introduces the NCUA's conservatorship checklist as a crucial tool for effective coordination. Prepare your credit union to handle crises with confidence and member trust!