ABCUL Board Profile - Director for East of England

Paul Norgrove - Director for East of England (Joined ABCUL Board in 2019)

Paul Norgrove has been the CEO of Police Credit Union since October 2017, having worked there since 2012.  Before that, he worked in the Finance Department for a local charity providing leisure facilities for disabled children and adults. He also volunteers on the World Council of Credit Union’s World Council Young Credit Union Professionals Steering Committee and the newly formed ABCUL Young Professionals Network.

Why did you first get involved in credit unions?

Quite honestly happenstance, I had worked in the ‘not for profit’ sector for 4 years and received an email from a friend regarding the Finance role at Police Credit Union. I had little to no knowledge of credit unions at that point so spent my job interview effectively interviewing the credit union and was offered the post on the spot.

Why did you choose to stand for election to the ABCUL Board? 

I had stood for election previously and being unsuccessful but was not deterred. I believe firmly that if you want to initiate positive change you must be willing and able to be an advocate and support for the entire CU movement.

What have you gained from being a member of the ABCUL Board?

I have gained a deeper understanding of the movement as a whole and the challenges faced in building a more relevant and sustainable CU sector in the UK moving forward. I also have a growing confidence in the current staffing team and their ability to lead ABCUL through the Town Hall Consultation which will support the entire sector.

What have you been able to contribute to the ABCUL Board? 

The skills and experienced I had gained both in my role as CEO and time spent working with credit unions across the globe were something I felt would support the strategic direction of ABCUL and also provide something different to the wider Board. 

What advice would you give to  people considering standing for the ABCUL Board?