CULA Welcomes New Director of Business Development Amidst Transition

Director of Business Development professional portrait smiling in a studio.

Transition in Leadership at CULA: A Strategic Move

Credit Union Leasing of America (CULA) has ushered in a significant leadership change by appointing Chris Harper as its new Director of Business Development. This decision, unexpected a few months back, comes in the wake of the untimely passing of Mark Chandler, who had a profound impact on the company during his seven-year tenure. Harper steps into this role at a critical juncture where the need for innovative financing solutions is more pronounced than ever.

Chris Harper: A Leader with Extensive Industry Experience

With over 25 years of experience in the credit union sector, Chris Harper brings a wealth of knowledge and a solid track record of fostering partnerships that drive growth. His previous role as Senior Director of Credit Union Partnerships at Goalsetter saw him leading financial institution sales while liaising with fintech providers. The experience he garnered at companies like Open Lending and Filene Research Institute positions him to effectively lead CULA’s initiatives aimed at enhancing customer engagement and revenue growth.

Continuing a Legacy: Expectations from Harper

Harper's appointment is not just about filling a vacancy; it's about continuing the legacy of Mark Chandler. Acknowledging the significance of Chandler’s contributions, CULA President Ken Sopp expressed confidence in Harper’s abilities to build upon the network established by Chandler. He emphasized that the focus will remain on providing affordable leasing options to credit unions, a critical aspect as vehicle prices remain high.

The Role of Leasing in Today's Automotive Market

As vehicle prices soar, the leasing model is becoming increasingly attractive to consumers. CULA operates in 23 states with over 40 credit unions, making it well-positioned to integrate leasing into their portfolios effectively. Harper aims to leverage his expertise in sales and partnerships to ensure that credit unions can provide consumers with attractive leasing options that meet their financial needs.

The Future Landscape of Vehicle Financing

The automotive financing landscape is evolving, with leasing gaining traction as a preferred option for many consumers. By providing turnkey leasing solutions, CULA under Harper's leadership has the potential to reshape how credit unions approach vehicle financing, making it easier for them to meet customer demands in an increasingly competitive market. Harper's vision of continuing Chandler's efforts while introducing innovative solutions will be vital as CULA strives to adapt to changing consumer preferences and economic conditions.

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