For most of us, achieving “a position of prominence and influence within the credit union financial services industry” takes difficult, determined effort.

But for Casey Kucera, the CUNA Finance Council’s 2021 Influencer of the Year Award winner, it’s been a labor of love.

It was love for her native city that first led her to Jefferson Financial Federal Credit Union in Metairie, La.

A friend suggested that she pursue an accounting job at the $882 million asset credit union, says Kucera, who's now vice president and chief financial officer.

Learning more about the credit union mission, she was happy to land the post that aligned with her professional goals and love for her home turf.

In that first accounting role, which Kucera calls “the building block of finance,” she earned her certified public accountant (CPA) license. Kucera added to her education by earning an MBA and master’s degree in finance from Indiana University by studying remotely and traveling to the campus once a quarter.

Her professional enthusiasm continues to spill past the official workday, with participation in groups like the Accounting & Financial Women’s Alliance and the Society of Louisiana CPAs.

She’s especially active in the CUNA Finance Council, where she serves on the executive committee.

Listening and collaborating are the common threads running through Kucera’s role with Jefferson Financial Federal and her volunteer duties.

Highlights from 2021 #FinanceCouncil

At the credit union, communication between departments is also essential, Kucera says. “We are all working toward the same goals.”

To foster cross-functional credit union collaboration, Kucera recently spoke at the CMO Exchange during the CUNA Marketing & Business Development Council Conference, sharing her finance perspective with marketers.

She eagerly anticipates other CUNA Finance Council events. “I am deeply honored by this award. I look forward to many more years of involvement.”