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POSITION TITLE: Board Member
PREPARED: January 2026
Each of the nine directors is elected by the membership to serve a three-year term. The Board sets policy and guides the President/CEO in the Credit Union's overall governance. Board service is a governance role requiring preparation, independent judgment, confidentiality, and ongoing education. All elected directors must complete required training and meet attendance and fiduciary standards outlined in this document. If a director is elected to complete the unexpired term of a departing board member, that seat will be up for election at the regular election at the following annual meeting.
Basic Responsibilities:
1. Make strategic decisions regarding the course of action for the Credit Union by establishing objectives, formulating policy, and approving goals and programs.
2. Approve overall pricing and interest rate policy and risk tolerance parameters; delegate day-to-day pricing implementation to management.
3. Hire, fire, and evaluate the Credit Union’s President/Chief Executive Officer, which includes:
a. Establish annual performance goals.
b. Conduct formal annual evaluation.
c. Approve total compensation package.
d. Ensure succession planning.
4. Approve pay practices and benefits for Credit Union staff as recommended by management.
5. Participate in standing committees as appointed by the Board chair.
6. Ensure the Credit Union meets all federal and state regulations and guidelines.
7. Appoint members to the Supervisory Committee and receive reports from the Committee. The Supervisory Committee operates independently in conducting audits and investigations.
8. Maintain, review, and update the Credit Union by-laws.
9. Maintain the confidentiality of all Credit Union business.
10. Provide independent oversight and constructive challenge to management.
11. Directors shall comply with the Credit Union’s Code of Conduct and Ethics Policy.
12. Oversee the financial strength, safety, and soundness of the Credit Union.
13. Attend and actively participate in monthly Board meetings and the annual planning session.
Duties:
1. Thoroughly review Board packets before each Board meeting.
2. Routinely review the Board Policy Manual.
3. Fulfill yearly educational requirements (see Educational Requirements).
4. Remain informed of legislative and regulatory developments affecting credit unions.
5. Collaborate constructively with fellow directors and respect management’s authority.
6. Disclose conflicts of interest and recuse from discussion and voting on related matters.
7. Board members owe duties of care, loyalty, and obedience to the Credit Union and its membership. Directors shall act in good faith, in the best interest of the Credit Union, and with the care an ordinarily prudent person would exercise under similar circumstances.
8. Attend monthly Board meetings (see Required Meetings).
Board Members:
1. Must be a member in good standing with the Credit Union.
2. Must be at least 18 years of age.
3. Must be bondable by the Credit Union’s fidelity bond company.
4. Must authorize a criminal background check and credit check.
Educational Requirements:
1. Annual training on fiduciary responsibilities.
2. Regulatory update training (NCUA examiner updates).
3. Cybersecurity and fraud trends briefing.
4. Asset-liability management basics.
5. Participation in the annual strategic planning session.
6. Directors are expected to complete required education annually.
Required Meetings:
1. Monthly Board meeting – currently held on the third Thursday of each month in the Credit Union’s Board room. The meeting begins at 4:45 p.m. (unless otherwise changed) and lasts approximately 60 to 90 minutes. Must attend a minimum of ten regular monthly Board meetings per year. (Attendance via online video is acceptable.) Failure to meet attendance minimums may constitute grounds for removal under the bylaws.
2. Annual meeting of the membership – generally held at the end of March.
3. Annual planning session - generally held on a Saturday in October.
4. Other assigned committee meetings – generally held monthly in the Credit Union Board room. Dates vary by committee. Personal Liability: Thinkwise Federal Credit Union carries Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance through TruStage. This policy protects the Credit Union’s directors, volunteers, and employees from liability arising out of their duties performed for the Credit Union. A detailed list of insurance coverage is included in the Board Policy Manual. Board members shall refrain from direct involvement in operational matters outside the President/CEO's authority to preserve the protections afforded under the Business Judgment Rule. Directors shall communicate operational concerns through the President/CEO and shall not direct staff. Extensions of credit to directors shall comply with applicable regulations and the Credit Union’s insider lending policy. Election to the Board is contingent upon completion of required background screening, bond approval, and acknowledgment of the Board Member job description.
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Thinkwise Federal Credit Union is a financial cooperative for employees who regularly work in the educational industry. For more than 60 years, we seek to provide individualized service to meet the unique needs of school employees in the San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange Counties. If you are looking to join a team that embodies the philosophy of “people helping people” and a culture that supports curiosity, then Thinkwise may be for you! Whether serving Members via a direct or indirect channel, you will find a fulfilling career, great benefits, and a professional and supportive work environment. Our corporate office is located in San Bernardino, California. We are proud of our growth and expansion, which currently includes two branches in the Inland Empire.