Worcester Business Journal

12 Business Profiles 2017 Worcester Business Journal www.wbjournal.com D uring the last 79 years, the Southbridge Credit Union (SCU) has established itself as a vital part of the local com- munity, committed to serving its members and all their financial needs. Most recently, the institution has undergone a "mini-reinvention" that adheres to tradi- tional values and core principles while implementing new products and services to help build better lives for members and meet the societal needs of today. Southbridge Credit Union's rebranding began with the appointment of Kate Alexander as its new President and CEO in March. She joined the institution in May 2016 as chief sales and retail officer and executive team member and led efforts to "refresh" SCU, placing special empha- sis on member engagement and support. Born and raised in Southbridge, Alexander is passionate about and committed to the local community. "I know there will be challenges, but I'm optimistic about the future of the credit union movement and what it means to small com- munities," she says. Alexander's "mom" skills make her uniquely qualified to run the organization. As mother to four young chil- dren, she has honed her proficiencies in time manage- ment, organization and communication. "Who I am personally helps me professionally," she notes. As part of rebranding efforts, Alexander introduced a new slogan, "We've got you," which embodies the credit union's mission and preparedness to serve members, whatever milestone they might be celebrating. From having a baby or saving for college to seeking a loan for that first car to a mortgage, SCU stands by your side. "Wherever you are, we're there," Alexander says. Preserving Tradition; Embracing the Future Southbridge Credit Union continues to offer the same personal banking products it has in the past, including savings and checking accounts; consumer loans for auto- mobiles and motor sports, such as snowmobiles, jet skis and boats; mortgages; and lines of credit at competitive rates. "We work with each member individually to pro- vide personalized service," says Alexander. Much like personal members, commercial ones still have access to similar products and services, including real estate and equipment loans and business lines of credit, with some new offerings coming soon. "We rec- ognize that the needs of small businesses are not being met. We are working to bring those services to the busi- nesses that need them most," Alexander says. SCU continues to stay abreast of new technological trends in the financial world. The website features access to all personal and commercial products, as well S O U T H B R I D G E , M A Southbridge Credit Union Address: 155 Main Street, Southbridge, MA 01550 Phone: 508-765-5454 Fax: 508-764-6288 Website: www.southbridgecu.com Product or Service: Not-for-profit member- ship-owned credit union, Southbridge Credit Union is a community financial institution, incorporated in 1938, doing business with individuals, businesses, and organizations within Worcester, Bristol, Franklin, Hampshire, Norfolk, Hampden, and Middlesex counties in Massachusetts. Number of Employees: 55 Head of Company: Kate Alexander, President/CEO Year Founded: 1938 Southbridge Credit Union: "We've Got You." P H O T O S / C O U R T E S Y

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