Manitoba's Top Employers

14 GREAT PEOPLE DRIVE GREAT RESULTS The official amalgamation of Catalyst and Vanguard Credit Unions ushered in a new era in financial services in Parkland and southwestern Manitoba communities. The result was Fusion Credit Union, a full-service financial institution, with 175 employees serving nearly 30,000 members through 18 branches across the region. With assets under administration of more than $1.06 billion, Fusion has the capacity, the shared commitment and the opportunity to support growth and prosperity in its branch communities and beyond. "We have an outstanding, talented group of employees," says Ron Hedley, Chief Executive Officer for Fusion. "We've really gelled and come together as a team, and I think that's reflected in the way we care for our members." Hedley says Fusion staff take their work seriously, but not themselves, as they strive to foster fun, team-oriented, collaborative workplaces. That company enthusiasm is clearly catching on as Fusion Credit Union made its way onto the 2019 list of Manitoba's Top Employers. "Fusion has already earned a reputation as a Top Employer. Yes, the benefits we offer are excellent, but we also cultivate a work environment that aligns extremely well with the values we share with our members and communities, and the many groups and projects we support," says Hedley. Fusion employees receive competitive salaries and company benefits, including training allowances, education funding and other professional development opportunities. The credit union considers itself an "idea place" and encourages staff to develop creative ideas about how the organization can strengthen its commitment to innovation and service excellence. "We're constantly doing innovative things and people across the organization are always encouraged to participate," says Hedley. "We value everyone's feedback and input, and listen to every voice. Great ideas have come from every level of the organization." Owned by its members, governed by a board of directors, and staffed by area residents, Fusion continues to be one of the most active supporters of community organizations and events in the region. The credit union is a major sponsor of Credit Union Place and Countryfest in Dauphin, as well as the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair in Brandon. Very proud of its community roots, Fusion took its community service ethic further still in introducing its Full Circle Fund. This special fund provides support to worthy, particularly ambitious, projects that enhance the quality of life for people of all ages in the communities served by Fusion. Recent community projects funded include the Gilbert Plains Community Hall, Whitmore School Playground in Dauphin, Foxwarren Arena, Binscarth Museum and the Oak Lake Community Hall. "We launched the Full Circle Fund in 2019 as our way to support projects and groups that reflect the priorities and values that matter most in our communities," he says, adding that many staff members are also active volunteers. "This fund has supported everything from youth sports to legacy projects and everything in between." Fusion has given back in other significant ways, notably by returning profits to its members through patronage payments. In 2018, Fusion members were on the receiving end of more than $1 million dollars. Indeed, the credit union has paid patronage returns to its members every year for the past 19 years. Hedley says Fusion continues to succeed by staying true to its vision, mission and values and by ensuring that the best interests of its members are always an organizational priority. The organization recognizes the value of outstanding member service delivered by a team of staff members who share Fusion's values and take pride in their work and their communities. "Our members deserve the very best, and so do we, as co-workers and team players," says Hedley. "Great people drive great results." For more information about career opportunities with Fusion Credit Union, visit fusioncu.com. FUSION CREDIT UNION

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