ABCUL’s Young Professionals Network Holds Successful Summer Event in Manchester

Friday 26 January 2024

Last week, on Friday 14^th July, ABCUL’s Young Professionals Network gathered at the head office of the Co-op Group for a day of learning and networking. Members of the Network travelled from across the country to attend the session.

The event attended by over 30 young professionals consisted of two main sections. The morning session was led by Andy Davey, the Operations Manager of the Co-op Credit Union who focussed on the importance of creating and nurturing professional networks to help young people progress their careers.

Hosted by the Chair of the YPN Steering Committee and Head of Member Services for First Class Credit Union – Luke McGilvray – the afternoon focussed on how young professionals can learn with leaders in the sector. The Learning With Leaders panel consisted of three credit union CEOs who are vocal supporters of developing and retaining young talent in the sector and are products themselves of this journey.

Luke posed a series of thought-provoking questions to the three panellists: Ciara Davies, CEO of Metro Moneywise Credit Union, Matt Bland, CEO of The Co-op Credit Union and Sean Lynch, CEO of Citysave Credit union. The CEOs spoke about their journeys within the sector and experiences with mentors, challenges, and how attitudes towards young professionals within the sector are evolving and producing fruitful results.

Ciara Davies said: “It was great to be involved in the YPN event and meet a brilliant group of young people passionate about credit unions who are keen to progress in our sector.  It was also great to reflect on and share the things I have learnt, particularly as a female leader”. Ciara is on the steering committee of the recently re-launched UK Sister Society of the Global Women’s Leadership Network, and she was able to use the event to promote the excellent work the network does to support women in the sector.

Following the panel discussion, the three leaders each sat with a group of attendees and helped facilitate discussions on the challenges facing the sector, and the most significant opportunities available for the development of GB credit unions.

Luke McGilvray said he: “loved the energy of the young professionals, their participation and willingness to learn contributed to the success of the event. As this was our first face-to-face event since 2019, it was great to bring the young professionals of the sector together again. The day allowed us to compare our credit unions, careers, and the challenges and opportunities facing our workplaces. I can’t wait for our next event to see even more YPs in attendance”.

The YPN has many events planned for the coming year with opportunities for virtual and in-person involvement. If you are a young person seeking to get involved, please find a membership form here and some more information on our website.