Dubai… I'm drawn to the city's allure because of its unparalleled tourist amenities and world-class attractions.
A 30-day, 7-continent trip around the world! It's a dream adventure that would allow me to experience a diverse array of cultures, landscapes, and wonders of the world, creating memories to last a lifetime.
The University of South Carolina Gamecocks… My passion for them ignited at a young age when I attended my first sporting event—a thrilling Gamecock football game against Virginia Tech—at just four years old. Since then, my allegiance to the team has only grown stronger, fueled by my experience as a proud alum of USC. As a devoted fan and season ticket holder, supporting the Gamecocks is not just a pastime but a tradition.
Leon has a unique journey at South Carolina Federal Credit Union. It began in 2001 with the Carolinas Credit Union League's Management Acquisition Development Program, an intensive six-month classroom training and job shadowing experience that immersed him in various aspects of financial institution operations, from front-line roles to executive leadership.
After completing the program, Leon transitioned into a sales representative role at the West Columbia Financial Center.
In 2003, he became the Financial Center Manager at the Columbia location. Over the years, he steadily progressed within the organization, taking on roles of increasing responsibility.
In 2013, he was promoted to Director of Sales, overseeing Financial Center Managers in the Columbia Region. In this capacity, he led strategic sales initiatives, managed daily operations, and collaborated closely with cross-functional teams, such as marketing, asset protection, and finance.
By 2015, he assumed the role of Area VP for the Columbia and Florence Markets, expanding his scope to encompass seven branches. He also spearheaded the strategic planning for seven mergers between 2015 and 2022, guiding the integration process and fostering positive community and member relations in collaboration with each financial institution's CEO.
In 2022, Leon's role evolved further when he was entrusted with the oversight of 11 financial centers as a Regional Vice President. With the addition of the Greenville Market, his responsibilities expanded to include 12 locations. Today, he is the Senior Vice President of Retail Sales & Service, in which he will oversee a network of 32 financial centers and the contact center.
On a daily basis, I'll focus on driving sales performance within our financial centers, ensuring top-notch service delivery as reflected in our Net Promoter Score, and upholding the overall quality and integrity of operations at South Carolina Federal to safeguard its stability. Collaboration will be key as I work closely with fellow members of the Senior Leadership Team and engage with the Board of Directors to align our strategies with the organization's overarching goals.
The most rewarding aspect of my job is undoubtedly the chance to engage with our staff, guiding them as they reach pivotal milestones in their careers. Witnessing their growth and celebrating their successes fills me with immense pride. I also find deep fulfillment in assisting our members on their journey towards financial empowerment and stability. Lastly, I thrive on the collaborative spirit within our credit union, working together with different departments to innovate and deliver outstanding services that truly make a difference in our members' lives.
"There are two pains in life. There is the pain of discipline and the pain of disappointment. If you can handle the pain of discipline, then you’ll never have to deal with pain of disappointment." – Nick Saban
I believe in a management style that empowers individuals to capitalize on their strengths rather than dwell on their weaknesses. To bring out the best in my team, I foster an environment that encourages creativity and welcomes input from all members. By promoting a culture of self-discovery, I enable team members to unlock their full potential. I recognize and celebrate small victories along the way, while also providing constructive feedback to facilitate growth and development during teachable moments.
I'm deeply passionate about advocating for financial education within underserved communities. Over the years, I've organized and lead financial literacy workshops and trainings across various platforms. From churches and Boys & Girls Clubs to foster homes and non-profit organizations, I've reached out to communities in both South Carolina and North Carolina, aiming to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed financial decisions. This cause resonates with me because I believe that access to financial education is fundamental in breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering economic empowerment among marginalized populations.
My career guide and mentor is none other than my father, who held a prominent leadership role in the textile industry, overseeing over 300 employees during his 25-year corporate career. From a young age, I had the privilege of observing his leadership firsthand. He would often bring me along to staff meetings, industry events, and business trips, imparting invaluable wisdom and insights along the way. Throughout my own professional journey, my father has been a steadfast source of guidance, helping me navigate critical decisions and challenges. His influence has instilled in me the importance of servant leadership and the value of investing in the growth and development of my employees.
One of the most exciting projects I've been involved in at the credit union has been overseeing seven mergers, spanning across locations such as Florence, Greenville, and Spartanburg. I've had the opportunity to onboard new team members into our organizational culture and establish meaningful relationships with newly acquired members statewide. Collaboration has been key throughout these mergers, as I've worked closely with various departments within the credit union to ensure a seamless transition for both South Carolina Federal Credit Union and the merged financial institutions involved. It's been a rewarding journey contributing to the growth and success of our organization while extending our reach and impact within the community.
My favorite perk at the credit union is our 401k plan, which stands out from others in the industry. South Carolina Federal offers an exceptional dollar-for-dollar match, covering up to the first 10% of your contribution. This benefit has been invaluable to me, as it not only provides a strong financial incentive for saving but also allows me to focus on achieving my retirement goals with confidence.
For those embarking on a career in the banking industry, my advice is to explore the diverse fields within the sector and discover your true interests. Seek out a mentor who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your career path, and remain open-minded and receptive to learning new skills and knowledge. Networking is key in this industry, so make connections with fellow bankers, both within your organization and across different financial institutions. Get involved in your community and seek out leadership opportunities to further develop your skills and make a positive impact. Finally, strive to excel in every role you undertake, as consistent high performance will pave the way for future success and advancement in your banking career.