For Laurie Butz, president and CEO of Capital Credit Union, she believes that her leadership journey is ever evolving. “I demonstrate the ability to learn from others, at all levels, constantly review and assess my own performance, engage with mentors and constantly challenge my own thinking,” she said. “My passion is ignited by the possibilities.”
These possibilities prompt her to dream big and encourage others to do the same. “I have had a hand in developing the six stated values for Capital Credit Union and inspire to be better every day,” said Butz.
Capital Credit Union is a $2.4 billion full-service financial institution with 470 employees serving 119,0000 members and owners in Northeast Wisconsin. The organization has 24 branches along with mobile access through the Capital Credit Union App.
Butz describes the last three years at Capital Credit Union as transformational. Coming out of COVID, she said the firm was faced with talent shortages and economic environment challenges. “Along with a committed volunteer Board of Directors and a committed leadership team, we were able to establish a clear vision and strategic direction for the credit union while implementing innovative digital resources for our members,” said Butz.
This resulted in a 22 percent growth in assets, improvement of employee engagement scores from 70 percent to 83 percent, a reduction in employee turnover and improved member net promotor scores. Capital Credit Union also received financial performance awards from Raddon, which recognizes the top 10 percent of credit unions in the U.S.
What makes Butz a titan is her ability to be influential, said her staff. “Laurie uses the power of her position to influence good across the financial industry, non-profits, community organizations, women in leadership organizations and by bringing large businesses together in partnerships,” they said. She gives back by teaching strategic planning for leaders in the UWGB Institute for Women’s Leadership Advanced Certification Program, serves as the Chair of the Brown County United Way Annual Campaign and sponsors countless non-profits.
As a leader, her superpower is two-fold. “Looking back, it would appear that my determination has showed up as resilience, resourcefulness, drive, dedication, persistence and sheer will to overcome whatever challenges for which I was faced,” Butz said. “I also believe that we can all make this a better world if we could just be kind and love one another – starting with ourselves.”
For her resilience, determination and commitment to leading others, Butz has been named a titan.
